Starting a business in the US can open new doors for your company. Registering it the right way is key. Many business owners find the process confusing. Rules and steps change from state to state.
From choosing the legal structure to paperwork and tax requirements, each decision affects your business management. Your choices also determine how much protection you have as an owner.
Registering your US company correctly keeps you legal and makes your business more credible, reputable and trustworthy to clients and investors.
If you skip steps or don’t follow the rules, you could face fines. In the worst case, you might have your business shut down.
In this article, you’ll get a clear, simple guide on how to register a company in the USA as a startup, to know how to move forward.
Key Takeaways
Registering your startup in the US opens access to global markets, funding, and legal credibility.
- Choose the right business structure: LLC, C-Corp, Sole Proprietorship, or LLP.
- Pick a unique company name and check availability in your chosen state.
- Register your business with the Secretary of State and file the required documents.
- Get an EIN from the IRS for tax and hiring purposes.
- Secure licenses and permits based on your industry.
- Select a business-friendly location and hire a registered agent.
- Open a US business bank account to separate finances and enable growth.
- Plan for taxes and compliance—understand your federal, state, and local obligations.
- Non-US founders can register easily but may need extra support for banking and legal compliance.
- Stay compliant with labor laws, immigration requirements, and data privacy regulations.
Legal Nodes is the top AI-powered legal platform for startups and international founders. We make US company formation simple, fast, cost-effective and reliable.
Start your US business in just 5–10 days with no hidden fees. Focus on your startup—we’ll handle the legal side.
Book your free discovery call.
The Basics of Business Registration in the USA
Image source: Unsplash
When you register your company in the US, you turn your startup into a real, legal entity. It allows you to sign contracts, open a business bank account, and operate officially.
Most banks and investors want proof of registration—you may also need it to get business licenses or apply for funding.
Registering your business builds trust with customers and partners, and it protects your personal assets from business debts.
How to register a business in the US?
- Choose your business structure: Sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, C corporation or S corporation
- Choose your company name: Make sure it’s unique and fits state rules
- File registration documents: Usually, you file these with your state’s Secretary of State office
- Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN): You can get it from the IRS for taxes and hiring employees
- Apply for required permits or licenses: The type you need depends on your business and location.
Most startups register at the state level.
Foreign reporting companies must comply with additional federal requirements, including BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) reporting, which begins in 2025 under the Corporate Transparency Act.
How Legal Nodes Simplifies USA Company Registration for Startups
Legal Nodes is an AI-powered legal and compliance platform that helps startups set up a new business in the United States. Rather than struggling with legal requirements, varying state laws and paperwork, you get support from legal experts who know the way.
You start with a jurisdiction fit analysis to see the best region in the US that fits your business goals. Afterwards, our experts then help you create a legal structure that fits your needs.
With Legal Nodes, you get:
- Local legal partner coordination: Connect with trusted legal professionals who know the ins and outs of starting a business in the US.
- Banking and investor-ready structures: Build your company in a way that banks and investors prefer and get the right structure to open business accounts and attract funding when you’re ready.
- Real-time dashboard for updates: Track what’s happening with your company registration in one place. Get instant updates, upload documents, and track what’s done and what’s next.
- Complete documentation and filing: Reduce stress about paperwork and get every certificate and document you need to be fully registered.
- Ongoing legal support: Get a long-term legal partner. We’re here to help with taxes, compliance, contracts and other legal activities as your business grows.
Legal Nodes takes care of every step for you, from preparing all the necessary documents to filing them with the right state authorities.
We ensure your company meets both state and federal requirements, so nothing gets missed.
Our expert team has deep experience with everything from Delaware corporate law to creating structures that appeal to investors.
With our help, your startup can be up and running in 5 to 10 days. There are no hidden fees or surprise costs.
Schedule a free discovery call to get started.
How to Choose the Right US Business Structure
Image source: Unsplash
Choosing the right business structure is one of your first tasks. It affects personal liability, taxes and how you will manage your business.
Sole Proprietorship
A Sole Proprietorship is quick to set up. It’s not legally separate from you, so you are personally responsible for all debts and risks. Business income is reported on your personal tax return (Schedule C).
LLC (Limited Liability Company)
An LLC separates your business debts from your personal ones. If your business is sued, your personal belongings are usually safe.
LLCs offer flexible tax choices and management setups. It’s important to outline how your LLC will be managed in an operating agreement to keep things clear.
Some states, like Wyoming, have special LLC variations for modern businesses.
C Corporation
C Corporations keep your business finances separate from your personal ones. Owners (shareholders) are protected from business debts and lawsuits.
C corporations can raise money from investors but may face double taxation—once on the company’s profits and again on dividends paid to shareholders.
Delaware is a common and attractive state to register a C-Corp due to its business-friendly laws.
LLP (Limited Liability Partnership)
LLPs protect each partner from being personally responsible for business debts or mistakes made by other partners. Liability is usually limited to each partner’s investment.
Take your time. Think about how liability, taxes and your plans could be affected by your choice.
How to Register Your US Business Name and Entity
Choosing a unique business name is the first step—check your state’s registry to avoid duplicates and legal issues.
Next, choose your business entity type, which affects taxes, personal liability protection, and paperwork.
Register your business with your state’s Secretary of State office or business agency and file the required legal documents: Articles of Organization for an LLC, Articles of Incorporation for a corporation, or a Partnership Certificate for partnerships. Filing fees range from $50 to $300.
LLCs, corporations, and partnerships need a registered agent service to receive official documents for the company.
Some states also require bylaws or operating agreements for extra legal protection. Expect annual renewal fees—check your state’s specific rules to stay compliant.
How to Get Necessary US Licenses and Permits
Most tech startups don’t need general federal business licenses, but certain activities may require federal registration or licenses, especially if you’re in fintech, cryptocurrency, or handling sensitive data.
For example:
- If your startup deals with money transmission, digital wallets or cryptocurrency, you may need to register as a Money Services Business (MSB) with FinCEN and get state money transmitter licenses.
- If your business offers investment advice or financial products, you may need to register with agencies like the SEC or FINRA.
- Startups in broadcasting or telecommunications may need licenses from the FCC.
- Privacy and data security compliance have become crucial with federal laws like the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) and overlapping state privacy laws.
Check the local government websites of the relevant federal government agencies for guides and application procedures based on your industry.
If your tech startup will use unique brand names, logos, inventions, or product designs, consider applying for trademarks or patents with the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as you grow.
How to Set Up Your US Business Location
Image source: Unsplash
Where you set up your business matters—here’s how to choose the right location and stay compliant:
- Choose a business-friendly state or city with lower taxes and supportive laws.
- Check local zoning laws to make sure your business type is allowed in that area.
- Secure a legal business address (home, office, or virtual).
- Appoint a registered agent to get legal and tax documents.
- Register with state and local agencies, including the Secretary of State.
- Apply for any required city or county licenses and permits.
Taking time to set up correctly helps avoid costly delays or fines later.
How to Open a US Business Bank Account
Image source: Unsplash
Opening a company bank account is key for running a business in the US. Here’s how to do it:
- Keep personal and business finances separate for better accounting and tax management.
- Get these documents:
- Articles of Incorporation or Organization
- EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of US business address
- Check with your bank—requirements may vary for non-residents.
- Consider merchant services to accept card and online payments.
- Use digital banking tools (e.g., Wise, Revolut) for easier international transactions.
A business account keeps your finances organized, looks good and makes you ready to grow and stay compliant.
If you’re a non-resident, you can still open a US business bank account. Your company just needs to be registered in the US and have an EIN.
Tax Implications and Ongoing Compliance
Image source: Unsplash
When you register a company in the USA, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS to pay taxes, open a bank account, and hire employees.
Understand your federal, state, and local tax obligations.
Corporations pay federal corporate income tax, while LLCs and partnerships usually report profits on owners’ personal tax returns.
You must file federal taxes yearly. States may have income or franchise taxes; some states, like Wyoming, have none.
Many require annual reports and fees—missing these can cause fines or loss of good standing. Keep clear financial records and plan taxes based on your business structure.
Need help with tax planning or compliance? Check out this tax guide for non-US founders.
Immigration, Labor Law and Data Privacy Considerations
Image source: Unsplash
As a non-US citizen starting a company, you need to understand US visas and immigration laws.
Common visas include H-1B (skilled workers), L-1 (intra-company transfers), E-2 (investors from treaty countries), and TN (Canadian/Mexican professionals).
Each has specific rules, so consult an immigration lawyer early.
When hiring, classify workers correctly (employee vs. contractor) to avoid penalties. US labor laws cover minimum wage and safety.
Protect employee and customer data by adhering to state privacy laws, providing notices, and securing personal information.
Compliance protects your business and is expected by investors.
Final Words on How to Register a Company in USA
Registering in the USA can increase your company’s credibility and make it easier to work with US partners and customers.
You’ll need to choose your business structure, state, business name and submit formation documents. Don’t forget to get your EIN, open a bank account and check for extra licenses or permits for your industry.
Legal Nodes makes it all easy and clear. We will lead you through every step so you can focus on your business, not paperwork.
Ready to get started?
Book your free consultation with Legal Nodes today.
FAQs on How to Register a Company in USA
How much does it cost to register a company in the US?
Fees depend on the state and the type of business structure you pick.
Filing fees for an LLC or corporation usually fall somewhere between $50 and $500.
You'll also need to budget for a registered agent, business licenses, and permits.
How to get a company registered in the USA?
Here's the usual process:
- Pick a business structure (LLC, corporation).
- Decide which state you'll register in.
- Choose a business name and make sure it's available.
- File your registration documents with the Secretary of State.
- Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS.
You can do most of this online. Some people hire a formation service if they want extra help. If this is your case, book a free discovery call with Legal Nodes.
Can foreigners register a company in the USA?
Absolutely. You don't need to be a US citizen or live here to start a business in the States.
You'll need a registered agent with a US address and have to follow state rules for registration.
Foreigners might also need to get an ITIN and set up a US business bank account, which can be a bit of a hassle, but it's doable.
Is registering a business the same as LLC?
No, they're not the same thing. Registering a business just means you're making it official with the state.
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is only one type of business structure you can pick.
There are other options too—corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. It depends on what fits your needs best.
