Want to Start a Business in the U.S.? Know These Costs First to Save Time Money!

Thinking of Registering a Company in the U.S.? Knowing These Fees Will Save You Time and Hassle

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization and the rapid development of cross-border e-commerce, more and more entrepreneurs and small-to-medium-sized businesses are setting their sights on overseas markets-especially the United States, the world's largest economy. Registering a U.S. company can not only enhance a company’s brand image but also bring many advantages in areas such as tax planning, financing options, and international trade. However, for first-time investors unfamiliar with the U.S. market, the complex registration process and unclear fee structures can be daunting.

This article will walk you through the main costs involved in registering a U.S. company, based on recent developments, helping you make informed and strategic decisions.

1. Basic Steps to Register a U.S. Company

Registering a company in the U.S. may seem complicated, but the process is quite structured

1. Choose a Company Type Common types include Limited Liability Company LLC, Corporation, and Partnership. Each has different implications for taxation and liability.

2. Select a State of Registration U.S. states vary in registration policies and fees. Popular choices include Delaware, California, and New York.

3. Company Name and Registration Ensure the name is unique within the chosen state and complete the registration application.

4. Apply for an EIN Employer Identification Number This is essential for business operations, opening a bank account, and filing taxes.

5. Submit Documents and Pay Fees File the necessary paperwork with the state and pay the associated registration fees.

2. Breakdown of Registration Fees From State Fees to Service Charges

According to the latest 2025 data, registration fees vary by state. Here's a breakdown for Limited Liability Companies LLCs

Delaware Registration fee is around $90. Delaware does not impose sales tax or corporate income tax on out-of-state businesses, making it highly popular among international investors.

California Registration is about $85, but LLCs must also pay an $800 annual franchise tax. Additional taxes may apply for companies with higher annual revenues.

New York Registration costs around $200, plus a publication fee ranging from $300 to $1,500, required for publishing the company formation notice in local newspapers.

Florida Registration is approximately $125, with no annual fee, making it ideal for startups or budget-conscious investors.

In addition to state fees, other costs may include

Registered Agent Fee Most states require a Registered Agent to receive legal documents. Annual fees range from $100 to $300.

Virtual Office or Address Rental If you don’t have a U.S. address, you may need to rent a virtual office or use a service address, costing $50 to $200 per year.

Bank Account Setup Fee Opening a U.S. bank account may involve setup or annual fees, and some banks require an initial deposit.

Professional Service Fees If using a law firm or agency for registration, expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the service and provider.

3. Key Considerations Beyond Fees Choosing the Right State and Company Type

Selecting the right state and business structure is crucial for minimizing long-term operational costs.

For example, while Delaware’s registration fees are relatively low, it is one of the most popular states due to its well-developed corporate legal framework and pro-business environment. Wyoming, on the other hand, is gaining popularity for its low taxes and strong privacy protections.

Tax treatment also varies significantly across business types. An LLC can choose to be taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation. Corporations, however, are subject to corporate income tax, and shareholders must also pay personal income tax on dividends, leading to double taxation.

4. Recent Trends Remote Account Opening and Digital Registration on the Rise

With technological advancements, more registration service providers are offering one-stop U.S. company registration services, including online applications, remote video account opening, and electronic signatures.

In early 2025, for example, Chase, a major U.S. bank, launched a remote account opening service, allowing international clients to open accounts via video verification-a major boost in efficiency. Meanwhile, some professional service providers now offer annual packages that include registration, annual compliance, and tax filing, which are particularly popular among small and medium-sized businesses. These packages not only reduce time and effort but also help avoid costly penalties due to unfamiliarity with U.S. laws.

5. Conclusion

While registering a U.S. company may seem complex at first, understanding the fees and procedures in advance, and choosing the right state and business structure, can significantly reduce both initial and ongoing costs.

For businesses aiming to expand into the U.S. market, doing thorough research and selecting a professional and reliable service provider is the first step toward stable and sustainable growth.