Start a US LLC from anywhere — and avoid the costly mistakes.
Clear, independent guides to choosing a state, a formation service and a bank, then staying compliant with the IRS. Written by an accountant who works with international entrepreneurs.
The short answer (2026)
For most solo founders outside the US, a Wyoming LLC ($100 to form, $60/yr minimum) or a New Mexico LLC ($50, no annual fee) is the cheapest solid choice. Choose a formation service on its three-year cost including the annual Form 5472, not on its headline price — missing that filing carries a $25,000 IRS penalty.
Formation services at a glance
| Service | Formation price | Registered agent | States | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| doola Top pick | $297/yr + state fee | Included while subscribed | Most states (check New Mexico) | Non-US solo founders who want formation and compliance in one place | See plans |
| Firstbase | $399 + state fee | $299/yr (required) | Incl. Wyoming | Founders who want address, mail and banking help bundled | See plans |
| Stripe Atlas | $500 one-time | Year 1 included, then $100/yr | Delaware only | Startups planning to raise venture capital | See Atlas |
| Northwest Registered Agent | Check current price | Core service, strong privacy | All 50, incl. New Mexico | Privacy-minded founders, New Mexico LLCs | See Northwest |
| Bizee | $0 + state fee | Free year 1, then $149/yr | All 50 | Budget formation if you handle EIN and taxes yourself | See Bizee |
Prices from providers' public pages and independent trackers, checked October 2026. Full comparison with 3-year costs →
Start here
How to form a US LLC as a non-resident
Seven steps, from choosing a state to your first IRS filing, with realistic timelines.
Read the guide →Best state: Wyoming, New Mexico or Delaware?
Formation fees, annual costs, privacy and when Delaware is actually worth it.
Compare states →LLC cost calculator
Pick a state and a service, see your first-year, yearly and three-year cost.
Open the calculator →Form 5472: the $25,000 trap
Why every foreign-owned single-member LLC must file it each year, even with zero income.
Understand Form 5472 →US LLC for Moroccan residents
US steps plus the Moroccan exchange-control and tax questions to settle first.
Read the Morocco guide →Opening a US business account from abroad
Mercury, Wise Business, Relay and Payoneer: who accepts non-residents and what they ask for.
See banking options →