Jake Lawson here. After helping over 1,200 entrepreneurs launch their businesses, I’ve learned that getting an EIN for your Wyoming LLC is one of those tasks that seems more intimidating than it actually is. The IRS provides these for free in about 15 minutes online, yet I still see people paying $600+ for “expedited EIN services” that do exactly what you can do yourself. This is especially important for Wyoming LLCs since many of my clients choose Wyoming for specific privacy and tax advantages. Let me show you the right way to get your Wyoming LLC’s Federal Tax ID Number.
Your Wyoming LLC needs an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for virtually every legitimate business activity: opening bank accounts, filing taxes, establishing business credit, applying for licenses. Think of it as your LLC’s Social Security Number with the federal government.
The process is free, standardized across all states, and faster than most people expect—but there are timing considerations and common scams to avoid. Plus, I’ll address specific considerations for international entrepreneurs who often choose Wyoming.
What Is an EIN and Why Your Wyoming LLC Needs One
An EIN is a unique nine-digit identifier that the IRS assigns to your LLC for tax and identification purposes. It creates a clear separation between your business identity and your personal identity in the federal system.
Also called:
- Federal Tax ID Number
- Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)
- Tax Identification Number
Important distinction: Your EIN comes from the IRS (federal government), not from the Wyoming Secretary of State. It’s completely separate from any Wyoming state tax numbers or registrations.
Why Your Wyoming LLC Must Have an EIN
Business Banking: No legitimate bank will open a business account without an EIN. Using personal accounts for business transactions destroys your LLC’s liability protection.
Business Credit: Credit cards, loans, and lines of credit require an EIN to establish credit in your business name rather than personally.
Tax Separation: While single-member LLCs can technically use your SSN, having an EIN keeps business and personal finances clearly separated—essential for maintaining liability protection.
Licensing: Most business licenses and permits require an EIN on applications.
Payroll: Required if you ever hire employees for payroll tax purposes.
Identity Protection: Using your SSN for business purposes increases identity theft risk. Your EIN provides a protective layer.
International Compliance: If you’re a non-U.S. resident, an EIN is required for filing Form 5472 and other international reporting requirements.
Critical Timing: When to Apply for Your EIN
Golden rule: Wait until your Wyoming LLC is officially approved before applying for your EIN.
Here’s why timing is crucial: Your EIN application must exactly match your approved LLC name. If you apply before approval and your name gets rejected or modified, you’ll need to cancel the EIN and reapply—creating unnecessary complications and potential confusion with the IRS.
The correct sequence:
- File Wyoming Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State
- Wait for approval confirmation (usually same day)
- Apply for EIN using your exact approved LLC name
How to Get Your EIN for Free (Complete Step-by-Step Process)
The IRS provides EINs at no cost. Any service charging you for this is adding markup to something you can accomplish yourself in 15 minutes (for U.S. residents) or by fax/mail (for international applicants).
For U.S. Citizens and Residents (With SSN or ITIN)
Step 1: Access the Official IRS Website Go to IRS.gov and search for “Apply for EIN Online.” Make sure you’re on the official .gov site—scam sites use deceptively similar domains.
Step 2: Start the Online Application Click “Apply Online Now” during business hours (7 AM – 10 PM EST, Monday-Friday). You’ll need:
- Your Social Security Number or ITIN
- Your Wyoming LLC’s exact legal name (as approved by the Secretary of State)
- Your LLC’s principal business address
- Reason for applying (select “Started new business”)
Step 3: Complete Each Section Methodically Take your time with the application. Double-check everything—errors can cause delays or require cancellation and reapplication.
Step 4: Receive Your EIN Instantly Upon completion, you’ll get your EIN immediately.
Critical step: Download and save your EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) right away. The IRS cannot reissue this document.
Time required: 10-15 minutes
Cost: $0
For Non-U.S. Residents (Without SSN or ITIN)
This is where Wyoming gets interesting—many international entrepreneurs choose Wyoming LLCs for privacy and business advantages. Here’s how to get your EIN:
Step 1: Download Form SS-4 Get the paper application from IRS.gov. This is your only option as a non-U.S. resident.
Step 2: Complete Form SS-4 Carefully Fill out all required sections. Key considerations for international applicants:
- Line 7b (SSN/ITIN): Write “Foreign” if you don’t have either number
- Line 9a: For foreign-owned single-member LLCs, select “Other” and write “Foreign-owned U.S. disregarded entity filing Form 5472”
- Line 10: Same as 9a if you selected “Other”
- Address: Use your Wyoming registered agent’s address as your principal business address
- County: Include the Wyoming county (e.g., “Laramie County, Wyoming”)
Step 3: Submit by Fax (Recommended)
- Fax: 855-641-6935 (faster processing)
- Mail: Internal Revenue Service, Attn: EIN Operation, Cincinnati, OH 45999
Step 4: Wait for Processing Processing takes 1-2 weeks by fax, 4-6 weeks by mail. You’ll receive your EIN Confirmation Letter by mail to your registered agent.
Important notes for international applicants:
- Don’t use a “third-party designee”—that’s a common scam
- You cannot use a personal EIN in place of an SSN/ITIN
- If you plan to have no employees, leave Line 14 blank
Common EIN Mistakes That Cost Time and Money
After guiding over 1,000 entrepreneurs through this process, these are the mistakes I see most often:
Mistake #1: International Applicants Trying to Apply Online
Non-U.S. residents cannot use the online application, even if they have a personal EIN. You must use Form SS-4.
Mistake #2: Applying Multiple Times Due to Delays
The IRS is often backlogged. Don’t reapply if you don’t hear back quickly—this creates complications. Wait the full processing time before following up.
Mistake #3: Incorrect Form SS-4 Completion
Common errors include missing the county name, wrong entity classification, or leaving required fields blank.
Mistake #4: Name Inconsistencies
Your EIN application must use the exact LLC name approved by Wyoming’s Secretary of State.
Mistake #5: Paying for “Premium” Services
The process is already as fast as possible. Don’t pay $100-$600 for something you can do yourself for free.
After Getting Your EIN: Essential Next Steps
Open Your Business Bank Account
Your EIN Confirmation Letter is required for business banking. For Wyoming LLCs, consider:
U.S. Residents:
- Local credit unions for personal service
- National banks for broader capabilities
- Online banks for low fees
International Residents:
- You’ll likely need to visit the U.S. in person to open accounts
- Some banks have international programs
- Consider digital banking options that accept Wyoming LLCs
Establish Business Credit
With your EIN, start building credit in your business name:
- Apply for business credit cards
- Establish trade credit accounts with suppliers
- Build a business credit profile independent of your personal credit
Understand Your Tax Obligations
Your EIN registers your LLC for federal tax purposes. Wyoming LLCs follow standard pass-through taxation:
- Single-member LLCs: Report on owner’s personal tax return (Schedule C)
- Multi-member LLCs: File Form 1065 partnership return
International owners: You’ll also need to file Form 5472 annually, reporting related party transactions.
Wyoming-Specific Advantages and Considerations
Why Choose Wyoming for Your LLC?
- No state income tax for individuals or LLCs
- Privacy protection – member names not required in public filings
- Asset protection – strong charging order protection
- Minimal reporting requirements – no annual reports
- Business-friendly regulations with minimal compliance burdens
State Tax Requirements
Your federal EIN is separate from Wyoming obligations. The good news: Wyoming has minimal requirements:
- No state income tax
- No franchise tax
- No publication requirements
- Minimal ongoing compliance
International Considerations
If you’re a non-U.S. resident with a Wyoming LLC:
- File Form 5472 annually with your tax return
- Consider ITIN application for personal tax filings
- Understand FATCA reporting requirements if applicable
- Consider professional tax advice for compliance
Married Couples: Tax Considerations in Wyoming
Wyoming is not a community property state, so married couples operating an LLC together are automatically treated as a multi-member LLC (partnership) for federal tax purposes.
This means:
- Must file Form 1065 (partnership return)
- Each spouse receives K-1 showing their share of profits/losses
- Cannot elect “qualified joint venture” status
Troubleshooting EIN Problems
Lost Your EIN?
If you lose your EIN Confirmation Letter, request an EIN Verification Letter (Form 147C) from the IRS. It serves the same purpose but takes 2-4 weeks to receive.
Delayed Processing for International Applicants
The IRS is often backlogged on paper applications. After 45 business days, you can call to request status updates or an EIN Verification Letter.
Applied Before LLC Approval?
If your Wyoming LLC gets approved with the exact name you used on the EIN application, you’re fine. If the name changes, cancel the old EIN and apply for a new one.
Form SS-4 Errors
If you made errors on your SS-4, call the IRS to explain and potentially resubmit with a letter explaining the correction.
Red Flags and Scams to Avoid
“Express EIN Processing” for $500+: The online application is already instant for eligible applicants, and paper applications can’t be expedited.
“EIN Renewal Required” Letters: EINs don’t expire. These are scam letters.
Third-Party Designee Services: Non-U.S. residents don’t need to pay someone to file Form SS-4.
Fake IRS Websites: Always verify you’re on IRS.gov.
Virtual Banking Scams: Stick with legitimate U.S. banks, even if it means traveling to open accounts.
Your Wyoming LLC EIN Action Plan
Step 1: Confirm LLC Approval Verify your Wyoming LLC is officially approved and you have confirmation documentation.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
- Your SSN/ITIN (if you have one) or prepare to write “Foreign”
- Exact LLC name as approved by Wyoming
- Wyoming registered agent address
- County information (e.g., “Laramie County, Wyoming”)
Step 3: Apply Through Appropriate Channel
- U.S. residents: Use free IRS online application
- Non-U.S. residents: Complete and fax Form SS-4
Step 4: Save Your Confirmation Download/receive and securely store your EIN Confirmation Letter.
Step 5: Plan Banking Strategy Research banking options and prepare for potential travel if you’re international.
IRS Contact Information (When You Need Human Help)
Phone: 1-800-829-4933
Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM EST (5:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST), Monday-Friday
To reach a live person:
- Press 1 for English
- Press 1 for Employer Identification Numbers
- Press 3 for “If you already have an EIN but can’t remember it”
Pro tip: Call right at 5:00 AM MST (7:00 AM EST) to minimize hold times.
Wyoming Business Environment Context
Wyoming offers unique advantages that attract entrepreneurs worldwide:
- Strongest LLC privacy laws in the U.S.
- No state income tax for individuals or businesses
- Asset protection benefits with strong charging order protection
- Minimal compliance requirements compared to other states
- Business-friendly courts and legal environment
These advantages make Wyoming particularly attractive for holding companies, real estate investments, and international business structures.
The Bottom Line on Wyoming LLC EINs
Getting an EIN for your Wyoming LLC is straightforward and essential, but the process differs significantly for U.S. residents versus international applicants. Wyoming’s business advantages make the extra effort worthwhile for many entrepreneurs, especially those seeking privacy and tax benefits.
Don’t let the EIN process intimidate you—it’s a necessary step that opens the door to legitimate business banking and operations.
Ready to Get Your Wyoming LLC EIN Right?
Need help navigating the EIN application process, especially as an international entrepreneur? I’ve walked hundreds of Wyoming LLC owners through both domestic and international EIN applications and can help you avoid the pitfalls that delay business launch.
That’s exactly why I built llciyo.com—to provide business owners with practical, tested advice about LLC formation and federal requirements, including the unique considerations for Wyoming LLCs and international business owners.
Because getting your EIN should be straightforward, not a source of stress or unnecessary expense.
Jake Lawson has guided over 1,200 entrepreneurs through U.S. business formation, including hundreds of Wyoming LLCs for both domestic and international clients. He’s helped navigate complex international EIN applications, avoid common compliance pitfalls, and establish proper business banking relationships. Independent advice, no affiliate pressure, just the facts about getting your Federal Tax ID Number right.