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Payment processing for non-US founders with a US LLC
Updated October 2026
Many founders outside the US form a Delaware or Wyoming LLC to sell to US customers. Opening a processor account is possible without an SSN, but verification is where most freezes happen.
What you'll need
- EIN from the IRS for your LLC. Non-US owners can apply without an SSN (the IRS accepts Form SS-4 by fax or mail; see IRS EIN guidance).
- Formation documents (Articles of Organization) and the EIN confirmation letter (CP 575 or 147C)
- A US business bank account in the LLC's name
- A US business address (registered agent addresses are sometimes rejected as operating addresses)
- Your passport and proof of residential address
Why accounts get frozen
- Name or address mismatch between the EIN letter, bank account and processor profile
- Logging in from a country the processor doesn't support for the account
- Owner verification asking for an SSN or ITIN you don't have
- Selling from a country that isn't supported directly, even with a US entity
Tips
- Make the LLC name identical everywhere, to the punctuation.
- Be upfront about where owners live.
- Check that your processor supports non-resident owners before you build on it.
- Choose a processor that pays out in the currencies you need.
PayFresco works with international merchants, with multi-currency billing in 100+ currencies, approval in 1-3 days and 90%+ transaction approval rates.
Real cases from the tracker
The latest recent freezes merchants have reported. Search all cases.
Where to go next
Alternatives sponsored by RetryHub and PayFresco.
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FAQ
Can I use Stripe with a US LLC and no SSN?
Stripe accepts an EIN for the business, but owner verification may still ask for personal details, and non-resident owners report verification problems and freezes. Make sure all details match exactly.
Do I need an ITIN for a payment processor?
Not always. Many processors accept an EIN plus passport for non-US owners. Some ask for an SSN or ITIN for the owner. Check before applying.
Why was my US LLC's payment account frozen?
Common reasons are mismatched details, logins from unsupported countries, and incomplete owner verification.
Related guides
- High-risk merchant account options
- Stripe account frozen: what to do first
- How to appeal a Stripe account closure
- Rolling reserves explained