July 1, 2025
EIN for Non-residents
Taxpayer identification numbers are essential tools if you want to build a solid financial foundation in the United States whether you plan to live there, do business, or simply access U.S.-based banking. But should you get an ITIN or an SSN? And what can each one actually do for you?
Knowing which one you qualify for, and how to use it, makes or breaks your ability to access the U.S. financial system.
✅ An ITIN is issued to individuals with foreign status who need to file U.S. tax returns but aren’t eligible for an SSN.
✅ An SSN is the main ID for U.S. citizens and eligible residents for employment, credit, and taxes.
✅ ITIN holders can open some U.S. bank accounts, use fintech services, and build a credit foundation without U.S. residency.
✅ SSNs are crucial for full access to credit cards, loans, online banking, and other U.S.-based financial products.
✅ Both numbers identify taxpayers but cater to entirely different groups with unique needs.
Navigating the U.S. financial system starts with one thing: having the right taxpayer identification number.
Without it, you can’t open a bank account, file taxes, or build credit. For U.S. citizens and residents, the SSN is the go-to. For non-residents who still need to interact with the U.S. financial world, the ITIN opens doors.
Whether you’re a global entrepreneur, freelancer, or someone expanding your business internationally, understanding these numbers is your ticket to easier banking, legal compliance, and better financial opportunities.
For non-residents, the U.S. financial system can feel like a brick wall. Banks often reject foreigners without an SSN; credit cards require established credit history; and online banking services won’t onboard you without the right ID.
That’s where the ITIN comes in—it lets you file taxes, open certain accounts, and even start building credit without U.S. residency. Meanwhile, an SSN remains essential if you want full access to the U.S. financial ecosystem, including loans and employment verification.
Many banks require an SSN or ITIN. If you don’t have either, you may be shut out from basic banking services like checking accounts, wire transfers, or debit cards.
Some banks will only consider your application if you can prove your identity and foreign status with an ITIN or SSN. But fintech companies like Mercury and Relay are changing the game by accepting non-residents creating new options even when traditional banks put up barriers.
That means no credit cards, loans, or credit scores which makes everything else, like renting an apartment or financing a car, much harder.
But here’s the good news: some banks and fintechs let you start building credit with an ITIN, often through secured credit cards. Over time, you can establish a credit profile even if you’re not living in the U.S.
Together, these taxpayer IDs let you break into the U.S. system legally setting the foundation for your personal or business finances.
This is especially valuable for freelancers, e-commerce sellers, and remote workers who need reliable ways to receive U.S. payments.
✅ EIN Registration – Get your Employer Identification Number to form an LLC, pay employees, or handle U.S. taxes.
✅ Local Bank Accounts – Use fintechs like Relay or traditional banks like Chase to open business accounts.
✅ Startup Support – Combine ITIN and EIN to legally set up and scale your business.
✅ Required Documents – Passport copies, operating agreements, and state formation documents are essential.
✅ Transaction Monitoring – Banks require proof of your financial activity to stay compliant.
✅ Mailing directly to the IRS.
✅ Using a CAA.
✅ Visiting an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
An approved SSN unlocks deeper financial tools like loans, mortgages, and comprehensive credit profiles.
Getting your ITIN or SSN is time-consuming and confusing. That’s where we come in, we streamline the process, handle the paperwork, and make sure you meet IRS and bank requirements.
✅ Certified Acceptance Agents – We handle documentation, verification, and submission.
✅ Expert Guidance – We specialize in non-resident clients who want a seamless entry into the U.S. financial system.
✅ Banking Partnerships – We work directly with banks and fintechs, smoothing the path to opening your first account.
As specialists in helping people without U.S. ties, we know exactly what documents banks need and how to avoid pitfalls. Our team has helped hundreds of clients from dozens of countries get ITINs, open U.S. bank accounts, and set up EINs for their businesses.
Through our alliances with top banks and fintechs, we give you insider access to accounts and services most non-residents struggle to obtain. Whether it’s mobile banking apps, debit cards, or secured credit cards, we make sure you get the best options available.
“Opening a U.S. bank account looked impossible at first, but with your help, I used my ITIN to set up everything and even got my first secured credit card!”
— Maria, entrepreneur from Spain
“Handling all the paperwork remotely was a huge challenge, but you made it easy to get my EIN and start my e-commerce business.”
— Ahmed, digital nomad from Egypt
🎥 In this episode, Jerz reveals exactly how foreigners can set up ITINs, LLCs, and U.S. bank accounts, plus the pitfalls that trip up most entrepreneurs. Don’t miss this must-watch guide for digital nomads and online business owners who want to harness U.S. financial tools for global success!
Yes, many banks accept ITINs instead of SSNs, but requirements vary by institution.
Not exactly. An ITIN helps you start building credit with some banks, but an SSN is generally preferred for mainstream credit products.
No, you can apply from abroad if you meet IRS criteria.
Major banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Citibank often work with ITIN holders, but fintechs like Mercury and Relay offer easier onboarding.
Whether you want to open a personal account, build credit, or set up a business in the U.S., understanding ITINs vs SSNs is the first step. By getting the right taxpayer ID and working with professionals who understand non-resident needs, you can unlock access to the world’s most powerful financial system no U.S. address or green card required.
Don’t let borders stop you from building credit, opening accounts, or scaling your business. Our expert team will guide you step-by-step through getting your ITIN, EIN, and opening U.S. bank accounts no residency or SSN required.
👉 Book Your Free Strategy Call Today Let’s make your global financial setup simple, legal, and stress-free.
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