How Much Does It Cost to Register a Company in the U.S.? A Guide to Hidden Fees

How Much Does It Really Cost to Register a Company in the U.S.? Uncovering the Hidden Expenses

In recent years, with the deepening of global economic integration and the rapid growth of cross-border e-commerce, more and more entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprises SMEs have turned their attention to overseas markets-particularly the United States, one of the world’s largest consumer markets. However, before taking this crucial step, many are eager to know how much does it really cost to register a company in the U.S.?

The answer is not straightforward. As a federal country, the U.S. has significant differences in registration policies, legal frameworks, and fee structures across its 50 states. To accurately estimate the cost, one must consider the specific state, business entity type, and long-term operational needs.

1. Basic Registration Fees Vary by State

The first decision when registering a U.S. company is choosing the state. While Delaware and Nevada are popular due to their business-friendly environments, favorable tax policies, and mature corporate laws, others opt for major economic hubs like California or New York for operational convenience.

According to the latest official data from 2025

Delaware

LLC $90

Corporation $89

California

LLC $70 registration fee + an additional $800 annual minimum tax Franchise Tax

Nevada

LLC $425 registration fee + $150 initial list filing = total $575

Other states, such as Washington and Florida, also vary widely, typically ranging between $100 and $600.

2. Agent Fees and Other Hidden Costs

For international applicants, registering a U.S. company often requires using a Registered Agent-a local representative responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of the company. Most states mandate this, and the service typically costs $100 to $300 annually.

If you choose not to handle the process yourself, hiring a professional service adds another layer of expense. A full-service package from a reputable provider usually ranges from $300 to $1,000, covering services such as drafting articles of organization, applying for an Employer Identification Number EIN, and state filings.

3. Tax and Compliance Costs Cannot Be Ignored

Beyond initial registration fees, ongoing tax and compliance expenses significantly impact long-term operations.

Take California as an example-the $800 annual Franchise Tax applies to all LLCs registered in the state, regardless of profitability. In Delaware, while there's no state income tax, companies must pay an annual Franchise Tax based on capital structure, ranging from $170 to tens of thousands of dollars.

Other key expenses include

EIN Application Free

Accounting Tax Services Can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars annually

Business License Required in some cities or counties; fees range from $20 to $500

Annual Report Filing Most states require this, with fees starting at $9 in New York and $50 in Delaware

4. Bank Account Setup and Operational Costs

After registration, many businesses choose to open a U.S. bank account to facilitate cross-border transactions and financial management. However, major banks often impose strict requirements on non-resident clients, potentially requiring documents like incorporation certificates, EINs, and shareholder identification-or even an in-person visit.

To simplify the process, international entrepreneurs increasingly use digital banking platforms like Payoneer, Mercury, or Wise Business, which offer remote account opening. These accounts may come with monthly maintenance fees typically $10-$25 or transaction charges, though some waive fees based on activity levels or balance thresholds.

5. Real-Life Example Registering an LLC in Delaware

Let’s take a Chinese entrepreneur planning to set up an LLC in Delaware and using a registered agent and digital banking services

Registration Fee $90

Agent Service Fee $200

First-Year Agent Fee $150

Digital Bank Annual Fee $120

Initial Accounting Consultation $300

Total First-Year Cost Approximately $960, or around RMB 6,900.

Subsequent annual costs would range between $500 and $1,000, assuming minimal operational needs.

6. Conclusion

Registering a company in the U.S. involves far more than just a simple registration fee-it’s a comprehensive process that includes registration, agent services, taxes, compliance, and ongoing operational expenses. For entrepreneurs aiming to enter the U.S. market, understanding state-specific regulations and budgeting accordingly is essential to avoid costly surprises.

Given the frequent changes in state policies and market offerings, it's highly recommended to consult updated resources or seek advice from a qualified professional before proceeding. This ensures informed decisions and efficient execution in your U.S. business journey.