How Much Does It Cost to Register a Company in the U.S.? Hidden Fees You Might Not Expect!

How Much Does It Really Cost to Register a Company in the U.S.? You Won’t Believe This Hidden Fee List!

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization and the increasing frequency of cross-border business activities, more and more entrepreneurs and small-to-medium enterprises SMEs have begun to look toward international markets - especially the United States, the world's largest economy. For business owners planning to operate in the U.S., registering a company is often the first step. However, many people lack a comprehensive understanding of the total costs involved, often focusing only on the initial registration fee while overlooking other potential expenses.

So, how much does it really cost to register a company in the U.S.? This article will reveal the hidden fees you may not have considered.

1. Basic Registration Fees State Charges Can’t Be Ignored

The first cost you'll face when registering a company in the U.S. is the state registration fee. These fees vary significantly by state. For example, under the 2025 policy, the initial fee for registering a Limited Liability Company LLC in California is $85. Additionally, there's an annual franchise tax of $800 that must be paid every year, even if the company had no income during that year.

In contrast, Delaware charges $90 for LLC registration and does not impose an annual franchise tax - one of the reasons why many companies choose to register there. If you opt to register as a Corporation C Corp, the costs are generally higher. For instance, in New York, the registration fee for a C Corporation is around $125, not including other state taxes and annual report fees, which can significantly increase the total cost.

2. Registered Agent Service Fee A Necessary Professional Service

U.S. law requires all foreign investors to appoint a Registered Agent with a physical address in the state where the company is registered. This agent is responsible for receiving legal documents and official notices on behalf of the company.

Many entrepreneurs choose to use professional registered agent services, which typically cost between $100 and $300 per year, depending on the service provider and the level of support offered.

3. Company Formation Service Fee A Time-Saving Option

To save time and avoid confusion, many entrepreneurs hire professional legal or business service firms to handle the entire registration process. These firms often provide a full range of services including company name search, drafting of articles of organization, filing of documents, and applying for an Employer Identification Number EIN.

Market rates for such services typically range from $200 to $800. While this may seem like an additional cost, for those unfamiliar with U.S. laws and procedures, it’s a worthwhile investment.

4. Federal Tax ID EIN Application Free but Essential

The Employer Identification Number EIN is the unique identifier for U.S. businesses, similar to China’s Unified Social Credit Code. Applying for an EIN is completely free and can be done online via the IRS website.

However, for non-U.S. citizens or green card holders, the process can be more complex. It may require submitting additional forms or even mailing in applications, which can increase the time required.

5. Trademark Registration Fee Don’t Overlook Brand Protection

Once a company is established and operational, many businesses choose to register trademarks to protect their brand identity. In the U.S., trademark registration is handled by the United States Patent and Trademark Office USPTO, with fees ranging from $250 to $350 per class of goods or services.

Additionally, hiring a professional attorney to conduct a trademark search and assist with the application can cost between $500 and $1,500.

6. Accounting Compliance Fees A Long-Term Necessity

Registering a company is just the beginning. Ongoing financial management and compliance are crucial for smooth operations. U.S. tax laws are complex, and companies must regularly file both federal and state tax returns, including income tax and sales tax.

Many businesses hire accountants or use accounting software to manage these tasks. Based on 2025 market prices, small businesses can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 annually for accounting services, depending on the complexity of the business and state-specific tax requirements.

7. Business Licenses Industry Permits Extra Costs for Specific Industries

Beyond general company registration, certain industries require specific business licenses or permits. For example, the restaurant, healthcare, and financial services industries often need additional approvals and fees.

In Los Angeles, opening a restaurant may cost between $500 and $1,000 in licensing fees, plus additional time and costs related to health inspections and fire safety checks.

8. Virtual Office Mailing Address A Practical Need for Remote Operations

For foreign entrepreneurs who do not plan to reside in the U.S. long-term, having a U.S. mailing address is essential. Many entrepreneurs opt for virtual office services, which typically cost between $30 and $100 per month.

Some registered agent services also offer mail forwarding for an annual fee of around $100 to $200.

9. Bank Account Setup The Foundation for Cross-Border Financial Management

Opening a local bank account is a necessary step for conducting business in the U.S. While some banks offer free account setup, most charge an opening fee, monthly maintenance fee, or require a minimum balance.

For example, banks like Citibank and Bank of America typically charge between $10 and $25 per month for small business accounts. Some banks also require an initial deposit, which should be included in your budget planning.

10. Legal Consultation Contract Review Risk Mitigation Is Crucial

During business operations, legal support is often needed for contract signing, employment agreements, and business partnerships. Many entrepreneurs try to cut costs by skipping legal services in the early stages, only to face costly legal disputes or compliance issues later.

Hiring a professional attorney for contract review and legal consultation is a smart investment. Based on 2025 market rates, legal fees typically range from $150 to $400 per hour.

Conclusion

Registering a company in the U.S. may seem straightforward, but the total costs go far beyond the initial registration fee. From registered agent services and accounting support to industry-specific licenses and legal consultations, each of these expenses can add up quickly.

For entrepreneurs planning to start a business in the U.S., it's essential to create a realistic budget and understand all potential costs in advance. Only by doing so can you build a solid foundation for long-term success in the competitive U.S. market.