Activate Shopify Payments: Non-US Citizens (No SSN)

Activate Shopify Payments: Non-US Citizens (No SSN)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Setting up a US Company
3. Forming a US LLC
4. Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
5. Getting a US Address
6. Opening a US Bank Account
7. Getting a US Phone Number
8. Completing the Business Details
9. Entering Personal Details
10. Selecting the Business Category
11. Describing Products or Services
12. Setting Up Customer Billing Statement
13. Providing Banking Information
14. Completing the Account Setup
15. Verification Process and Common Issues
16. Conclusion

How to Set Up Shopify Payments as a Non-US Citizen: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shopify Payments is a popular payment gateway option for merchants using the Shopify platform. However, as a non-US citizen, setting up Shopify Payments might seem challenging, especially without a Social Security Number (SSN). In this guide, we will walk you through the process of setting up Shopify Payments as a non-US citizen without an SSN. We will cover everything from forming a US company to completing the application process. So, let's get started!

1. Introduction

When it comes to setting up Shopify Payments as a non-US citizen, the key is to establish a US company. By forming a US company, you gain access to a wide range of benefits and services that might not be available to you as an individual in your own country. It also allows you to meet the requirements set by Shopify Payments, which is powered by Stripe.

2. Setting up a US Company

The first step in setting up Shopify Payments as a non-US citizen is to form a US company. By forming a US company, you can take advantage of the services offered by Shopify Payments and Stripe. Setting up a US company requires following certain guidelines and legal procedures. You can find a detailed guide on how to form a US company in the description of this video.

3. Forming a US LLC

Once you have decided to form a US company, the most common type of company structure for non-US citizens is a Limited Liability Company (LLC). A US LLC provides flexibility and liability protection. When completing the Shopify Payments application, you will be asked to provide your LLC name, which should match the legal business name you used during the formation process.

4. Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

To complete the Shopify Payments application, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or a Social Security Number (SSN). As a non-US citizen, you can obtain an EIN by applying through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The EIN serves as your tax ID number and is required to verify your business entity during the application process.

5. Getting a US Address

A US address is essential for completing the Shopify Payments application. When you form a US company, you will receive a dedicated US address that comes along with the company formation. This address will be used for your application and should match the address provided during the LLC formation process.

6. Opening a US Bank Account

Having a US bank account is another requirement for setting up Shopify Payments as a non-US citizen. Fortunately, there are options available, such as signing up for platforms like Payoneer, which provide you with a US bank account. This account allows you to receive payments and enables seamless integration with Shopify Payments.

7. Getting a US Phone Number

To further establish your presence as a US company, it is recommended to acquire a US phone number. This US phone number will add credibility to your business and improve customer trust. There are various virtual phone number services available that can provide you with a US phone number.

8. Completing the Business Details

Once you have all the necessary requirements, you can proceed with completing the Shopify Payments application. Some of the business details you will be asked to provide include your US company name, EIN or SSN, US address, and US bank account information. Make sure to double-check all the information entered for accuracy.

9. Entering Personal Details

In addition to business details, you will also need to provide your personal information during the Shopify Payments application process. This includes your first name, last name, job title, date of birth, and personal address. Ensure that you enter the information accurately and use the address that matches your identification documents.

10. Selecting the Business Category

During the application process, you will be asked to select your business category and subcategory. It is crucial to choose the most accurate description that matches your business. Before making a selection, review Shopify's prohibited businesses list to ensure your business falls within their guidelines.

11. Describing Products or Services

To proceed with the application, you will need to provide a description of the products or services your business offers. Be concise but informative in describing your offerings. This information helps Shopify Payments understand your business and its associated risks.

12. Setting Up Customer Billing Statement

To enhance transparency and reduce chargeback risks, it is essential to set up a customer billing statement that reflects your business name and address. This statement descriptor ensures that customers recognize your business on their credit card statements and minimizes disputes or chargebacks.

13. Providing Banking Information

As part of the Shopify Payments application process, you will need to provide your banking information. This includes your routing number and account number for your US bank account. Ensure that you have this information readily available to complete the application smoothly.

14. Completing the Account Setup

After filling in all the necessary details, you can proceed to complete the account setup. This involves reviewing your information, ensuring its accuracy, and hitting the complete account setup button. Once completed, you will be on your way to using Shopify Payments for your online business.

15. Verification Process and Common Issues

After setting up Shopify Payments, there might be a verification process to ensure the validity of your business and payment methods. It is important to provide genuine and accurate information during this stage. If you encounter issues during verification, such as utility bill requirements, refer to the link provided in the video for solutions.

16. Conclusion

Setting up Shopify Payments as a non-US citizen without an SSN is achievable by forming a US company and following the application process. By establishing a US company, you gain access to a range of benefits and services, opening up opportunities for your online business. With the right approach and genuine information, you can successfully utilize Shopify Payments and grow your business globally.

Highlights:

• Setting up Shopify Payments as a non-US citizen without an SSN requires forming a US company and completing the application process.
• The process involves forming a US LLC, obtaining an EIN, getting a US address, opening a US bank account, and obtaining a US phone number.
• Completing the business and personal details accurately is crucial to ensure a smooth application process.
• Selecting the correct business category and subcategory, describing products or services, and setting up a customer billing statement are essential steps.
• Providing accurate banking information is crucial to enable seamless transactions.
• The verification process ensures the validity of your business and payment methods, and there are solutions for common issues such as utility bill requirements.