Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about U.S. business formation
Can a non-U.S. resident form a business in the U.S.?
Yes. You don't need U.S. citizenship or a green card. LLCs, Corporations, and Nonprofits can all be formed remotely from abroad.
Do I need an SSN?
No. You can form an LLC and obtain an EIN without an SSN. EIN filing without an SSN is done via paper application and takes 4-8 weeks.
How much does it cost?
LLC Starter bundle (LLC + EIN + 1 year RA) starts at $299 with SSN, $499 without SSN. State fees range from $50 to $425 depending on the state.
How long does formation take?
LLC formation typically takes 1-4 weeks. EIN without SSN adds 4-8 weeks. Total timeline is approximately 6-12 weeks.
Which state should I form in?
Delaware has an excellent legal system, Wyoming offers privacy and tax benefits, and New Mexico has the lowest fees. We can recommend the best state for your needs.
Is a Registered Agent required?
Yes. Every U.S. state requires businesses to maintain a Registered Agent to receive legal documents and state notices.
Are annual reports required every year?
It varies by state. Most states require annual or biennial reports. Some states like New Mexico have no annual report requirement.
Can I open a bank account with a virtual office address?
Some online banks (Mercury, Relay) accept virtual office addresses. Major banks (Chase, Bank of America) may require an in-person visit.
How do I dissolve a business?
File Articles of Dissolution with the state and settle any outstanding taxes and reports. Auteur can handle the dissolution process for you.
What is Auteur?
Everything you need to start a U.S. business in one place. Formation, Registered Agent, and Virtual Office services. Supported by experienced U.S. compliance professionals.