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ITIN Guide 2026

ITIN vs EIN for Canadians: Choosing the Right US Tax Identification Number

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Canadians who engage with the US tax system often encounter two different identification numbers: ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and EIN (Employer Identification Number). Knowing which one you need — or whether you need both — is essential for setting up your US business correctly.

ITIN: For Non-US Individuals

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is issued to individuals who are not eligible for a US Social Security Number. Format: 9XX-XX-XXXX (starts with 9). Used for: W-8BEN forms, Form 1040-NR, US investment accounts, US bank beneficial owner verification, US LLC owner identification on Form 5472.

ITIN is a personal Tax ID — it identifies you, the Canadian individual, in the US tax system. It is NOT for your business.

EIN: For Business Entities

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is issued to business entities — LLCs, corporations, partnerships. Format: XX-XXXXXXX. Used for: business tax returns, bank account opening, Stripe, PayPal business accounts, hiring employees, W-9 forms provided to clients.

Your US LLC has its own EIN, separate from your personal ITIN. The EIN is what goes on Stripe, Mercury Bank, and other business accounts. The ITIN is what goes on Form 5472 (which reports the LLC's Canadian owner to the IRS).

When You Need Both: The Canadian LLC Scenario

Most Canadian entrepreneurs who form US LLCs need both:

You can apply for both simultaneously — ITIN through ITIN Plus and EIN through the IRS directly (free, by fax or mail).

When ITIN Alone Is Enough

Canadians who only earn US platform income as individuals (Fiverr, Upwork, Amazon KDP, YouTube AdSense) without a US LLC need only an ITIN. The ITIN goes on your W-8BEN and that's sufficient. No EIN needed unless you form a US business entity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ITIN and EIN?
ITIN is a personal Tax ID for non-US individuals (no SSN). EIN is a business Tax ID for US entities (LLCs, corporations). ITINs start with 9; EINs are in format XX-XXXXXXX.
Does a Canadian LLC owner need ITIN or EIN?
Both. Your LLC needs an EIN for business accounts and tax filings. You personally need an ITIN to identify yourself as the Canadian owner on Form 5472 and other IRS documentation.
Can Canadians get an EIN without an ITIN?
Yes. You can get an EIN for a US LLC as a Canadian without first having an ITIN — just have no US principal officer with an SSN and apply by fax (Form SS-4). However, you still eventually need an ITIN for Form 5472 compliance.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?
8–14 weeks from the IRS submission date. Apply through ITIN Plus for $99.
How long does it take to get an EIN?
By fax (Form SS-4): 4–6 weeks. By phone with an IRS agent: same day (if you're a foreign owner who can verify a US LLC formation). Free from the IRS regardless of method.