IRS EIN Application Delays 2025: Causes & How to Get Your EIN Faster

Nazmi Ozer

The process of obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is crucial, especially for non-US residents forming an LLC in the United States. Without an EIN, your business cannot open a bank account, register with payment gateways like PayPal, or operate on marketplaces.

However, many applicants have recently experienced unexpected delays due to IRS EIN application processing backlogs. This article will cover the reasons behind EIN delays, how they impact businesses, and the best ways to handle these challenges.

Understanding IRS EIN Application Delays

Since December 2024, there has been a surge in EIN processing times, particularly affecting non-US applicants. We have personally experienced delays with EIN applications for multiple LLC formations and, after researching the issue and contacting the IRS, we have identified several key reasons for the backlog:

Why Are EIN Applications Delayed?

  1. High Application Volume – A significant increase in EIN applications has overwhelmed IRS processing systems.
  2. End-of-Year Tax Season Workload – As in previous years, the IRS experiences high demand at the end of each year, slowing down operations.
  3. Winter Storm Disruptions – A massive snowstorm in early 2025 affected multiple states, shutting down offices and causing significant processing delays.

💡Among all these factors, the most critical cause of the EIN processing backlog has been the winter storm at the beginning of the year. This extreme weather event led to widespread office closures across multiple states, bringing IRS operations to a standstill. As a result, EIN application processing slowed down dramatically, making this the primary reason behind the extended delays.

How EIN Delays Impact Businesses

Extended EIN processing times can create serious challenges for business owners, including:

  • Delayed Business Launch – Without an EIN, your LLC cannot open a bank account or set up payment processing.
  • Compliance Risks – Running a business without an EIN can lead to regulatory and tax compliance issues.
  • Operational Challenges – Businesses relying on EIN approval to finalize their setup and contracts may face financial setbacks.

How to Get Your EIN Faster

If you formed your LLC in late 2024 or early 2025 and are still waiting for your EIN, here’s what you should do:

1. Fastest Solution: Call the IRS

The quickest way to get an EIN as a non-US resident is by calling the IRS EIN helpline. Here’s how:

📞 IRS Phone Number for Non-US Applicants: +1 (800) 829-4933

Steps to Get Your EIN Over the Phone:

  1. Prepare Your SS-4 Form – Keep a copy of your SS-4 application form nearby, as the IRS agent will verify the details.
  2. Dial the IRS Number and follow the menu options:
    • Press "1" for English
    • Press "3" for EIN confirmation & lost EIN services
  3. Be Persistent – If the waiting time is too long, don’t give up. Call again at a different time.
  4. Request Your EIN – Tell the representative that you have already faxed your SS-4 form multiple times but have not received your EIN.
  5. Ask for an Immediate EIN – If possible, request to receive your EIN directly over the phone.
  6. Request a 147C Letter – This official EIN confirmation letter can be faxed to you after the call.

🔹 Important: If the authorized aerson asks for a Social Security Number (SSN), let them know that you are a foreign applicant without an SSN but own a US-based business.

2. Alternative Method: Resend Your SS-4 Form

If you don’t want to call the IRS, your next best option is to re-fax your SS-4 form:

✅ Fax Your SS-4 Form Again – Send it every 7 days until you receive a response.
✅ Mark It as a Follow-Up – On the first page, write “Second Request” before faxing it. If faxing again, use “Third Request” and so on.
✅ Prevent Multiple EINs – If you don’t mark it as a follow-up, the IRS may process it as a new EIN request, causing duplicate EINs. This could lead to compliance issues and unnecessary complications.

Preventing Future EIN Application Delays

While EIN delays may persist, planning ahead can help mitigate their impact. Here’s what you can do:

  • Plan Early – If your business relies on an EIN, apply at least 2-3 months in advance of any critical business operations.
  • Ensure Accuracy – Incomplete or incorrect applications cause additional delays. Double-check your SS-4 form before submitting.
  • Track Your Application – Call the IRS periodically to check your EIN status and follow up on delayed applications.

Final Thoughts

The recent IRS EIN application delays have created significant hurdles for international entrepreneurs and non-US LLC owners. By understanding the root causes and applying proactive solutions, you can reduce waiting times and keep your business on track.

💡 Need help forming your US LLC and obtaining an EIN? Check out our latest guides on LLCWorld.net for expert assistance! 🚀

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