When it comes to establishing a business in the United States, non-resident entrepreneurs face unique challenges. From navigating the complexities of legal compliance to understanding the intricacies of the US market, the process can be daunting. Fortunately, a number of LLC formation services have emerged to streamline this process. Here we compare the top 5 services based on pricing, speed of formation, customer support, and legal compliance.
1. Doola
Doola simplifies LLC formation in the US for non-residents, navigating the complex legal landscape on their behalf. Offering paperwork assistance, compliance, banking support, and tools for business growth, Doola empowers international entrepreneurs to establish and expand their US operations efficiently.
Pricing: Doola offers competitive pricing packages that cater to various needs, starting from basic formation services to more comprehensive bundles that include EIN registration and a US bank account setup.
Speed of Formation: Doola prides itself on quick turnaround times, with most LLCs being formed within a week, depending on state processing times.
Customer Support: Known for their responsive and knowledgeable support team, Doola provides personalized assistance throughout the entire formation process.
Legal Compliance: Doola ensures that all filings meet state and federal requirements, offering peace of mind to non-resident owners about their business’s compliance.
Key Features:
- Specialized Support for Non-Residents: Doola offers tailored support for non-residents, ensuring a smooth formation process regardless of where you’re based.
- Banking Solutions: Assistance with opening a US bank account remotely, an essential step for international business operations.
- Tax Consultation: Provides access to tax consultants who can help non-residents understand their US tax obligations.
- Additional Services: Includes options for EIN registration, a necessary requirement for hiring employees and opening bank accounts in the US.
2. StartGlobal
StartGlobal offers a streamlined LLC formation service for non-residents, simplifying the process of establishing a business in the US. Understanding the challenges international entrepreneurs face, StartGlobal aims to remove legal and administrative barriers. With a focus on ease, clarity, and efficiency, they guide clients through LLC formation, ensure compliance with US laws, and provide ongoing support, helping businesses to enter new markets, leverage the US’s global reputation, and access banking and payment services.
Pricing: StartGlobal offers a simple, all-inclusive package that covers LLC formation, EIN procurement, and US bank account opening. Their straightforward pricing eliminates any guesswork involved in the cost.
Speed of Formation: They are among the fastest, with the ability to get your LLC up and running within 48 hours under their expedited service option.
Customer Support: StartGlobal boasts a dedicated team that helps non-residents understand the nuances of US business operations, providing support via email, chat, and phone.
Legal Compliance: With a focus on ensuring businesses are fully compliant from day one, StartGlobal guides clients through each step to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Key Features:
- Streamlined Process: StartGlobal prides itself on a fast and efficient setup process, allowing businesses to be operational in the US market quickly.
- Comprehensive Package: Offers a full suite of services including LLC formation, EIN procurement, and US banking solutions.
- Personalized Support: Dedicated account managers provide personalized support throughout the formation process.
- Global Payment Solutions: Facilitates the setup of payment processing systems to accept payments from customers worldwide.
3. FirstBase
Venturing into the US as a non-resident entrepreneur is challenging due to legal complexities. FirstBase LLC Formation Services simplifies this, offering tailored services to help non-residents own and grow a US-based business easily. Providing comprehensive support, FirstBase handles paperwork and legalities, ensuring compliance and a smooth pathway for global entrepreneurs to access the US market.
Pricing: FirstBase offers tiered pricing plans, allowing entrepreneurs to select the level of service that best fits their needs. Additional services like mail forwarding and physical office space are also available.
Speed of Formation: Standard LLC formations typically take about 5-7 business days, though expedited options can reduce this timeframe.
Customer Support: FirstBase provides extensive resources and support to their clients, including access to a network of experts on US business law and taxation.
Legal Compliance: They are thorough in their approach to legal compliance, updating their protocols regularly to reflect the latest regulations.
Key Features:
- All-in-One Solution: FirstBase offers a comprehensive package that covers LLC formation, EIN registration, and banking solutions.
- Tech-Friendly Services: Particularly beneficial for tech startups, with support for SaaS and e-commerce platforms.
- Flexible Packages: Various packages are available, allowing businesses to choose services according to their specific needs.
- Lifetime Customer Support: Commitment to long-term assistance, offering support beyond the initial formation process.
4. StripAtlas
StripAtlas LLC offers specialized services for non-residents to start businesses in the US, simplifying the complex legal and business procedures. With a focus on simplicity, efficiency, and expert guidance, we help entrepreneurs worldwide to enter the US market, tailoring our services from selecting the right business structure to ensuring compliance. StripAtlas LLC is your trusted partner in launching and growing your business in the US.
Pricing: StripAtlas structures its services with transparent pricing that includes LLC formation, EIN registration, and even a tax consultation session.
Speed of Formation: They offer a swift setup process, with most LLCs being formed within 3-5 business days.
Customer Support: Excellent customer service with access to advisors who can assist with questions about growing and managing a US-based business.
Legal Compliance: StripAtlas places a strong emphasis on compliance, ensuring that businesses meet all legal requirements in their respective states.
Key Features:
- Integrated Payment Processing: Being a part of Stripe, it offers seamless integration with its payment processing service, ideal for businesses planning to accept online payments.
- Global Network: Access to a network of global entrepreneurs, providing valuable networking opportunities.
- Expert Legal and Financial Advice: Offers expert advice on legal and tax matters, crucial for non-residents unfamiliar with US regulations.
- Quick Turnaround: Promises a quick setup so businesses can start operating in the US market rapidly.
5. EasyFiling
EasyFiling simplifies LLC formation in the US for entrepreneurs and foreign investors, offering a straightforward process and personalized support to comply with US regulations. It handles registration details, allowing clients to focus on business growth.
Pricing: EasyFiling presents an affordable option for LLC formation, with a clear breakdown of costs for additional services such as EIN registration and annual compliance filings.
Speed of Formation: Formation times are competitive, with the process typically completed within a week.
Customer Support: While more budget-friendly, EasyFiling still offers solid customer support, with a team ready to assist via email and phone.
Legal Compliance: They provide a compliance checklist and ensure that all filings are done correctly to meet state-specific requirements.
Key Features:
- Cost-Effective Solutions: Offers competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for startups and small businesses.
- Simple Process: Focuses on simplifying the LLC formation process with an easy-to-understand platform.
- Customer Support: Provides support via chat, email, and phone, ensuring help is available when needed.
- EIN and Compliance Help: Includes services for obtaining an EIN and staying compliant with US regulations.
Conclusion
For non-resident entrepreneurs looking to establish an LLC in the US, these five services offer a range of options tailored to different needs and budgets. By considering factors such as pricing, speed, support, and compliance, international business owners can choose the service that best aligns with their goals and ensures a smooth start to their venture in the United States.
FAQs
Can a non-resident form an LLC in the United States?
Yes, non-residents can legally form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the United States. There are no citizenship or residency requirements for LLC formation, which makes it a popular choice for international entrepreneurs looking to establish a business presence in the US.
What are the requirements for a non-resident to form an LLC in the US?
Forming an LLC in the US has similar requirements for residents and non-residents, including: selecting a unique business name that meets state rules, appointing a registered agent with a physical state address, filing Articles of Organization, and getting an EIN from the IRS for taxes. Requirements can vary by state.
Do I need to have a physical address in the US to form an LLC as a non-resident?
While you do not need to have a personal physical address in the US, your LLC must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state where your LLC is formed. The registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of your LLC. There are services available that can act as your registered agent.
How does a non-resident obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for their LLC?
Non-residents without a Social Security Number (SSN) can still obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for their LLC by completing IRS Form SS-4 and either mailing it or faxing it to the IRS. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and provide all the required information to avoid delays.
Can I open a bank account in the US for my LLC as a non-resident?
Yes, non-residents can open a US bank account for their LLC. Most US banks require physical presence for account opening. You’ll need to provide documents like your LLC’s EIN, Articles of Organization, and a valid passport. Some banks might have extra requirements, so contacting the bank directly for specific requirements and processes is recommended.
