Can You Trade Stocks Without SSN?
While a Social Security Number is required for some activities in the U.S., trading stocks isn’t one of them. You can trade U.S.-listed stocks without an SSN. To learn how to invest without one, keep reading.
Invest in Stocks Without a SSN: Method #1
One way around the SSN requirement is to open an investment account with a foreign brokerage firm that allows access to U.S. exchanges. Options include
Moomoo in Canada and
Zackstrade in Europe.
Accounts with these firms can be opened using a foreign tax ID number. Once opened, they may provide access to major U.S. exchanges and sometimes the OTC marketplace.
A tax ID of some sort is always needed to open these accounts. The main drawback is that such accounts aren’t regulated by U.S. agencies like FINRA or the SEC.
Buy Stocks Without a SSN: Method #2
If you don’t have a foreign tax ID, or if you prefer U.S. oversight, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. This is a U.S. tax ID that can be used instead of an SSN. It is available to certain resident and nonresident aliens, as well as their spouses and dependents.
An ITIN looks like an SSN (XXX-XX-XXXX) but starts with the number 9. Because of the format, it can be used to open many types of financial accounts in the U.S.
ITINs are especially useful for people who don’t have authorization to work in the U.S. Once issued, it can be used to open investment accounts, and taxes are handled under that number.
Getting an ITIN requires mailing an application. You’ll need Form W-7 from the IRS website, along with proof of identity, foreign status documents, and a tax return. Send them to:
Internal Revenue Service
Austin Service Center
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
If you can’t provide all the documents, you may apply through a Certifying Acceptance Agent or a Taxpayer Assistance Center.
A good choice for opening a brokerage account with an ITIN is
Charles Schwab.
Buy Stocks Without a SSN: Method #3
Another option is to get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for a business, such as a sole proprietorship or small LLC. With an EIN, you can open a brokerage account under the business’s name.
Getting an EIN is easier than an ITIN because the IRS provides an online form. It only takes minutes to complete, and the EIN is issued right away.
Several U.S. brokerages accept EINs for accounts, including Vanguard, Schwab, Fidelity, and E*Trade. This allows opening taxable business accounts, SEP IRAs, and self-employed 401k plans.
The IRS recently updated its rules so that self-employed 401k plans must now be opened with an EIN only.
A strong choice for opening such an account is
Charles Schwab.
Investing Without a SSN: Method #4
Non-Americans outside the U.S. may be able to open brokerage accounts with some U.S. firms. For example,
Zacks Trade offers this service in many countries, including the UK and much of the EU.
The downside is more paperwork. A W-8BEN form is always required, which confirms the tax status of a foreign account. This form must be given to the broker and updated every three years. Tax withholding depends on any tax treaty between the U.S. and the account holder’s country.
Other documents may also be needed, such as proof of residency (like a utility bill), a passport or visa copy, and employer details.
Once approved, the foreign account can trade U.S.-listed securities just like a U.S. account.
How to Trade Stocks Without a SSN: Method #5
If no other option works, you may apply for a Social Security Number. Some non-citizens qualify if they live in the U.S. and have permission to work, which can be granted by the Department of Homeland Security.
It’s also possible to apply for an SSN at the same time you apply for an immigrant visa through the U.S. Department of State.
Open Charles Schwab Account
Open Schwab Account
Updated on 1/7/2026.
Continue Reading