All states require potential LLC owners to file a substantial set of documents, typically called the Articles of Organization, in order to establish their business. We can take care of this process for you, saving you time, effort, and allowing you to focus on developing your business – not filing paperwork. Lean on our expertise to ensure all paperwork is filed correctly the first time.

The name you choose for your LLC is an important decision, as it will be how you represent yourself to potential associates and clients. With that in mind, it is advisable that you take some time to craft a name that you will be proud to have representing you and your business. Your name must be unique, and not deceptively similar, to any other trademarked name or business. It is also required that your name not be used to intentionally misrepresent the products or services you offer. For LLCs, nearly all states will also require you to add a signifier of your limited liability status, such as "LLC" or "L.L.C." to the end of your company's name. You may be able to operate under a name other than your formal LLC name by applying for and using a dba.

There is no minimum requirement as to the number of owners (also referred to as members) that an LLC must have. At the federal level, single-member LLCs qualify for pass-through taxation, however this is not always true at the state level.

Despite being a relatively new option, the limited liability company (LLC) is now one of the most popular business structures among smaller organizations. While allowing business owners to remain free from a great deal of the regulations imposed on other types of companies, it still provides limited liability protection for its owners (members). This means that the personal assets of an LLC's ownership cannot be collected to fulfil the debts of the business.If you need to do more information gathering before deciding which company structure is best for your business, read more about the strongest differentiation between LLCs, corporations, general partnerships, and sole proprietorship using our Entity Type Comparison.

Though it typically only takes between 7 and 10 days to form an LLC, the length of the formation process depends on the state in which you’re starting a business. For an additional fee, expedited processing can be requested so that your application is reviewed before others.

The S Corporation is the oldest and one of the most common business structures, and is typically what comes to mind when the average person hears the word "corporation". It provides the greatest level of separation and protection between the company and its owners, and allows the company to raise capital through the issuance of publicly traded stock.

Most states only require one director in order to start an S Corporation. However, some states impose a minimum number based on the number of shareholders the company has. This required number is typically never lower than three and there is no maximum limit.

S Corporations and their owners are taxed separately from one another, which results in "double taxation". This means that the corporation will be taxed on its profits and then each individual owner will be taxed again on the income distributed to them at a personal level. Filing as an S corp can help business owners avoid this, but will also open them up to paying self-employment taxes.

S Corporations and their owners are taxed separately from one another, which results in "double taxation". This means that the corporation will be taxed on its profits and then each individual owner will be taxed again on the income distributed to them at a personal level. Filing as an S corp can help business owners avoid this, but will also open them up to paying self-employment taxes.

One of the S Corporation's greatest strengths as a structure is that it typically has no requirements regarding who can become part of its ownership. However, a few states do require that an individual be at least 18 years of age to officially become an owner.

C Corporations and their owners are taxed separately from one another, which results in "double taxation". This means that the corporation will be taxed on its profits and then each individual owner will be taxed again on the income distributed to them at a personal level. Filing as an S corp can help business owners avoid this, but will also open them up to paying self-employment taxes.

One of the C Corporation's greatest strengths as a structure is that it typically has no requirements regarding who can become part of its ownership. However, a few states do require that an individual be at least 18 years of age to officially become an owner.

The C Corporation is the oldest and one of the most common business structures, and is typically what comes to mind when the average person hears the word "corporation". It provides the greatest level of separation and protection between the company and its owners, and allows the company to raise capital through the issuance of publicly traded stock.

Most states only require one director in order to start a C Corporation. However, some states impose a minimum number based on the number of shareholders the company has. This required number is typically never lower than three and there is no maximum limit.

C Corporations and their owners are taxed separately from one another, which results in "double taxation". This means that the corporation will be taxed on its profits and then each individual owner will be taxed again on the income distributed to them at a personal level. Filing as an S corp can help business owners avoid this, but will also open them up to paying self-employment taxes.

Starting a business in the U.S. as a foreign entrepreneur comes with unique challenges that can complicate the process. One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of a U.S. business or mailing address, which is often required for official registration and correspondence. Additionally, obtaining a Tax Identification Number (EIN) can be complex, as foreign owners do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), which is typically used for tax filings and business verification. Another major obstacle is opening a business bank account, as U.S. banks enforce strict requirements, including proof of a physical presence in the U.S. and a valid address. Many financial institutions require in-person visits, making it difficult for non-residents to establish a banking relationship. Our service simplifies this entire process, ensuring that you can set up your U.S. company efficiently while meeting all regulatory requirements.

The registration time varies by state, but forming a U.S. LLC or Corporation typically takes between 1 to 3 weeks. Some states offer expedited processing, allowing you to set up your company in just a few days. However, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN)—which is necessary to open a business bank account—can take anywhere from a few days to a month, depending on IRS processing times and workload.

Starting a U.S. business does not automatically grant you a visa or work authorization. However, certain visa options, such as the E-2 Investor Visa, may be available if you invest a substantial amount in a U.S. business and actively manage it.

Yes, but opening a business bank account in the U.S. as a foreigner can be challenging due to strict banking regulations. Most banks require a physical presence, a U.S. address, an EIN (Employer Identification Number), and proof of identity. Some banks may also require an in-person visit. However, there are online banking solutions that cater to international entrepreneurs without requiring travel to the U.S.

Tax obligations depend on your company structure. LLCs (disregarded entities or partnerships) may require non-resident owners to file a U.S. tax return and pay taxes on U.S.-sourced income. C Corporations pay corporate taxes, and foreign owners may owe taxes on dividends. Tax treaties between the U.S. and your home country may reduce or eliminate double taxation.

No, as a foreigner who owns a U.S. company, you do not need a Social Security Number (SSN) to file a tax return. Instead, you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN), depending on your business structure and tax obligations. Here is how it works: For LLCs and Sole Proprietorships: If the LLC is taxed as a disregarded entity or partnership, and you are a foreign owner, you will need an ITIN to report your share of business income on your tax return. For C Corporations: The corporation itself will file a tax return using its EIN, and you, as a foreign owner, may need an ITIN if you receive dividends or salary subject to U.S. tax.

Yes, owning a U.S. company does not automatically grant you the right to work or live in the United States, but you can still travel to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) using an ESTA. However, ESTA is strictly for tourism, business meetings, and conferences—not for actively managing or working for your U.S. business. If your visit involves running daily operations, signing contracts, or engaging in activities beyond passive business meetings, you may need a B-1 Business Visa or an appropriate work visa. Always ensure your travel purpose aligns with ESTA regulations to avoid complications at U.S. immigration.

Yes, a foreigner can fully own a U.S. business. There are no citizenship or residency requirements for owning an LLC or C Corporation. However, tax and legal obligations vary based on the company structure and your country of residence.