The United States is easily one of the most business-friendly jurisdictions to form an LLC. There are no restrictions on who can open an LLC in the United States, so many non-U.S. persons are flocking to states like Wyoming, Delaware, and Nevada, to form their LLCs. Once the LLC is formed, it must apply for a U.S. taxpayer identification number with the IRS.

The U.S. tax IDassigned to an entity is the employer identification number (EIN). The EINis necessary to file federal tax returns, complete withholding certificates, open a U.S. bank account, and start a U.S. payroll in order to hire employees. Many LLCs that operate Amazon stores or drop shipping companies will also need the EINto register for state sales tax collections.

The EIN application process for a nonresident can be a frustrating and lengthy process, so we have outlined everything here to make the experience as quick and painless as possible.

We will cover the following topics and materials:

1. What types of entities need an EIN?

2. What are the challenges facing non-U.S. persons when they apply for an EIN?

3. Review a sample EIN application for a single-member LLC

4. Review a sample EINapplication for a multi-member LLC

5. Review a sample EINapplication for a U.S. corporation

6. Review a sample EINapplication for a foreign entity

7. Review a sample EINconfirmation letter from the IRS

8. Review how an entity classification election may impact your EINapplication

Once you've reviewed all of the materials and examples, you should confidently be able to apply for an EINfor your new business entity.