Can I get an EIN if I don't have a Social Security number yet?

Yes. The IRS issues EINs to responsible parties who lack an SSN, which matters for many immigrant founders. If you have an ITIN you can often apply online, but if you have no SSN or ITIN at all, you cannot use the online tool and must submit Form SS-4 by fax or mail, leaving the SSN/ITIN line blank or writing 'foreign.' Processing by mail takes several weeks; fax is faster. The EIN identifies your business for tax filings, payroll, and bank accounts and does not depend on citizenship or immigration status. Once issued, an EIN is permanent. Getting one early lets you open business banking and keep your personal SSN off vendor forms.