Ultimate Guide to Registering and Operating a Company in the U.S. Start from Scratch

How to Successfully Start a Company in the U.S. - A Full Guide from Registration to Operations

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization, more and more entrepreneurs and businesses have turned their attention to overseas markets-especially the United States, the world’s largest economy. According to the latest data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the American economy continued steady growth in 2025, maintaining a dynamic entrepreneurial environment that attracts international investors from around the globe.

So, how can you successfully start a company in the U.S.? This article provides a comprehensive overview-from registration and tax planning to daily operations.

1. Choose the Right Business Structure - Start Smart, Succeed Easier

When registering a company in the U.S., the first step is to choose a suitable business structure based on your business needs.

Common business structures include

Sole Proprietorship Best for individual entrepreneurs. It's easy and inexpensive to set up, but the owner is personally liable for all debts and legal issues.

Limited Liability Company LLC One of the most popular structures. It offers flexibility in taxation and protects personal assets.

S Corporation S Corp Ideal for medium-sized businesses. It avoids double taxation.

C Corporation C Corp Suitable for larger companies, especially those planning to raise capital or go public.

According to 2025 data on newly registered businesses, over 60% chose the LLC structure, highlighting its advantages in flexibility and risk control. For most startups and small investors, LLC is often the best choice.

2. Choose the Right State - Location Matters

The U.S. consists of 50 states, each with its own corporate laws, tax policies, and business environment. When choosing a location, consider the following factors

Tax Policies States like Delaware and Wyoming are known for low taxes and well-developed commercial legal systems.

Ease of Operation States like California and New York offer large markets but come with higher costs for registration and operation.

Privacy Protection Some states allow anonymous registration, which is ideal for entrepreneurs who value privacy.

For example, Delaware continued to attract a large number of new businesses in 2025, particularly tech startups. Its mature court system and flexible corporate laws make it a top choice for many new companies.

3. Complete the Registration Process - Compliance is Key

The process of registering a U.S. company generally includes the following steps

1. Check and Register the Company Name Make sure the name isn’t already taken, usually done via the state’s official website.

2. Submit Registration Documents For example, Articles of Organization for LLCs or Articles of Incorporation for corporations, along with the required fees.

3. Apply for an EIN Employer Identification Number This is your company’s tax ID, used for tax reporting, opening bank accounts, and more.

4. Open a U.S. Bank Account Major banks like Citibank or Wells Fargo are recommended for easier financial management.

5. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits Depending on your industry, you may need specific licenses.

Compliance is crucial throughout the process. In recent years, the U.S. has tightened anti-money laundering AML regulations and corporate transparency requirements. For instance, the Corporate Transparency Act, effective since January 2025, requires most companies to disclose their beneficial owners. Failure to comply can lead to legal consequences.

4. Tax Planning and Financial Compliance - Avoid Tax Traps

The U.S. tax system is complex, but smart planning can significantly reduce your tax burden. Key points include

Federal and State Taxes Companies must pay federal income tax, and some states also impose corporate income tax.

Resident vs. Non-Resident Tax Rules For non-U.S. residents, tax treatment differs, so it’s wise to consult a professional accountant.

Use of Tax Treaties The U.S.-China tax treaty helps avoid double taxation.

It’s advisable to hire a professional accountant or tax advisor early in the setup process to build a solid tax structure. For example, many tech startups in 2025 chose the S Corporation structure to benefit from favorable tax treatment and prepare for future fundraising.

5. Daily Operations and Compliance Management - Build a Strong Foundation

Once the company is registered, the real challenge begins. Daily operations should focus on the following areas

Human Resources Employment contracts, benefits, and social security contributions must comply with U.S. labor laws.

Intellectual Property Protection Trademarks and patents are strongly protected in the U.S.-register early to secure your rights.

Financial and Audit Practices Maintain accurate financial records and conduct regular audits to support compliance and potential fundraising.

Marketing and Branding The U.S. market is highly competitive. A clear brand strategy and effective marketing are essential.

In 2025, many Chinese entrepreneurs launched e-commerce businesses in the U.S., selling through platforms like Amazon and Shopify. However, some failed due to poor localization and customer service. This highlights that product quality alone isn’t enough-local operations and brand building are equally important.

6. Fundraising and Expansion - From Startup to Growth

Once your business stabilizes, fundraising and expansion become the next priorities. The U.S. offers a mature capital market with various financing options

Angel Investors and Venture Capital Ideal for early-stage tech companies. Silicon Valley remains the global hub for venture capital.

Bank Loans Suitable for businesses with stable revenue.

Equity Crowdfunding and Private Placements Growing in popularity among small and mid-sized entrepreneurs.

The U.S. government also supports startups through programs like the Small Business Administration SBA loan program, offering financial assistance to new businesses.

Conclusion

Starting a company in the U.S. is a promising but complex endeavor. It requires careful planning, strict compliance, operational capability, and market awareness. From choosing the right business structure to managing daily operations, every step demands thoughtful execution.

In recent years, more and more international entrepreneurs have found success in the U.S.-not only because of the country’s open market, but also because they respect and adapt to local rules. With proper preparation and a solid strategy, starting and running a successful U.S. company is absolutely within reach.