SS4 Instructions [Step-by-Step Process]

SS4 instructions are sometimes difficult to follow. This is especially true if you’re a new foreign-owned US business looking to register your employer identification number (EIN) with the IRS.

And, since an EIN is a requirement to process payroll, open a US business bank account, and apply for business loans, you must follow the SS4 instructions properly.

SS4 Letter

The SS4 instructions entail a detailed step-by-step process on how to apply, submit, and receive your employer identification number (EIN). However, as a foreign-owned US business, this can be challenging. That said, if you provide the proper information, meet the specific requirements, and submit the correct applications, you will receive an EIN for your business.

We’ll detail the SS4 instructions, including the step-by-step process you’ll need to follow when filling out your SS4 letter. And, we’ll also cover the other SS4 letter examples you’ll need to be aware of during the application process.

But, that’s not all.

In fact, here’s everything we’ll cover in this article…

As a bonus, we’ll share with you how you can open a US bank account for your foreign-owned company with the help of an SS4 letter.

But, before diving in, if this is your first time visiting GlobalBanks, don’t forget to download your FREE USA Banking Starter Guide. It’s designed to help you open accounts in the US for your foreign and non-resident business.

What Is an SS4 Letter?

Before we dive into the specific SS4 instructions, let’s first discuss what an SS4 letter is and what exactly it is used for.

An SS4 letter is an IRS numbered form, also referred to as an “Application for Employer Identification Number” form. And, it is a vital document business owners must fill out when applying for an EIN.

The IRS requires nearly all businesses in the US to have an employer identification number (EIN) for tax purposes. And the only way to apply for an EIN is by completing and submitting an SS4 letter.

Beyond taxes, an employer identification number is also required when opening a US bank account for your business. Not to mention, when applying for a business bank loan, building business credit, and applying for business permits and licenses.

And, since all US businesses are eligible for an EIN, it’s important to consider completing an SS4 letter.

With this in mind, let’s look at the SS4 instructions. More specifically, the step-by-step process on how to submit an SS4 letter to acquire an employer identification number.

SS4 Instructions: Step-By-Step Process on How to Get One

These are the SS4 instructions for a new business looking to register their EIN for the first time.

If your company already has an EIN but you’ve lost it, you need to get an SS4 EIN Verification Letter (147C) instead.

So, with that said, let’s look at the step-by-step process of getting an SS4 letter…

Step 1: Visit the IRS Website

The first step required to obtain an SS4 letter and an EIN is by visiting the IRS website. Here you will find an online application tool allowing you to complete the SS4 letter completely online.

If you prefer to complete form SS4 by hand, you also have the option to do so. That said, this option will take much longer as you’ll have to mail the form directly to the IRS.

So, depending on your timeline, you may want to consider filling out the application form directly online.

Step 2: Provide the Required Information

To fill out the application form, you must provide detailed information on both your personal and professional status.

For instance, you’ll be required to provide the following details:

Your legal name
Your company’s name
The company’s mailing address
The company’s day-to-day operations
List of products and services the company sells
Number of employees working for the company
Business start date
Structure of the company (LLC, sole proprietorship, corporation, partnership, etc.)
Registered agent’s information
Reason for needing an EIN

To complete the SS4 form, you will need to provide all of the information listed above.

In some cases during the online application process, you may be required to provide additional information on your business…

Step 3: Answer Questions Related to Your Business

In addition to the general information mentioned above, you may be required to provide detailed information on your business’s financials.

Including annual gross receipts and expected annual income for the next year.

So, before starting the application process, it’s important to have these items of information on hand.

Step 4: Submit Application (Online)

After filling out the application, providing detailed information, and answering all necessary questions, you can now press submit.

Once the IRS reviews your application you’ll receive a notice in your email confirming your approved SS4 letter. Included in the email will be the new employer identification number the IRS has issued for your business.

As mentioned, this is only for companies that are requesting an EIN for the first time. If you have lost your EIN and need to request it again from the IRS you will need a different form. Read on below for more…

SS4 EIN Registration Letter vs SS4 EIN Verification Letter (147C)

Depending on your situation, the letters you’ll be required to complete can differ.

So, with that said, let’s look at each SS4 letter example one by one…

SS4 EIN Registration Letter

An SS4 EIN Registration letter is used to apply for an EIN for your new business. You do this by completing the SS4 instructions outlined above.

Completing this form and getting your EIN is the only way to begin processing payroll for your business.

Now, if you ever forget or misplace your EIN, you’ll need to request a verification letter from the IRS…

SS4 EIN Verification Letter (147C)

Now, if you ever misplace your EIN and are required to use it for banking purposes you’ll have to request an SS4 EIN Verification Letter (147C) through the IRS.

The only way to do so is by calling the IRS directly.

Fortunately, we have outlined the step-by-step process in our recent article “How to Request an EIN Verification Letter (147C)” to help you successfully verify your EIN.

For both letters, once your applications have been approved, you’ll receive the SS4 confirmation letter by mail.

So, before submitting your SS4 letter, you must make sure you have provided the proper mailing address. That way, you avoid the possibility of not receiving your confirmation letter.

With that said, once you’ve received the SS4 confirmation letter, you’re ready for the next step…

SS4 Form Complete…What to Do Next?

So, you’ve followed the above SS4 instructions properly and now you want to know what to do next?

Well, to take all the proper steps to build a successful company, once you have your EIN, the next step is to open a US business bank account.

But, you don’t want to open an account with just any bank. And if you have a foreign-owned US business you won’t be able to anyway.

So, what are the key factors you need to look at when choosing a bank?

Well, you need to find a bank that offers low-cost payment processing, reasonable financing, and attractive business credit cards. But also, one that accepts foreign-owned businesses to open US bank accounts.

Like banking anywhere, opening accounts in the US can be challenging. This is especially true for foreign non-resident individuals and businesses.

With this in mind, we help our GlobalBanks USA members open business bank accounts for their foreign-owned US companies in the US on a regular basis.