Thinking of launching your own business in the United States? You’re not alone. Thousands of entrepreneurs every year take the leap and turn their ideas into real companies. Whether you're local or international, knowing how to register a company in the US is your first major step. In this BizzCrave guide, we’ll simplify the full process of registering a business in the US, zzcravecovering essential paperwork, tax registrations, and tips for success.
Why You Should Register a Business in the US
The United States is one of the easiest places in the world to start a business. By taking the steps to register a business in the US, you gain:
Legal legitimacy
Access to funding and banking
Brand credibility
Tax and investment opportunities
Protection of your personal assets
Bizz Crave recommends formal registration to unlock these long-term benefits for your business.
Common Business Structures in the US
Before learning how to register a business in the US, it’s crucial to choose the right structure for your business:
Type | Best For |
Sole Proprietor | One-person businesses (least paperwork) |
Partnership | Businesses with two or more founders |
LLC | Small to medium-sized businesses (most popular) |
Corporation | Startups, investors, large organizations |
Non-Profit | Charitable and mission-driven organizations |
Each structure has its own pros, costs, and tax implications.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Business in the US
Let’s break down each step clearly.
1. Select Your Business Name
Choose a unique name that reflects your brand and isn’t already in use. Check name availability on your state’s Secretary of State website.
Pro Tip:
Check domain availability to secure your online presence at the same time.
2. Choose Your State of Formation
Some entrepreneurs choose their home state, while others pick states like Delaware, Nevada, or Wyoming for tax or privacy benefits.
If you're a non-resident, you can still register a business in the US, but you’ll need a Registered Agent based in the state of formation.
3. File Articles with the State
This is the official paperwork that forms your business entity. You’ll need to file:
Articles of Organization for LLCs
Articles of Incorporation for Corporations
Fees range from $50 to $500 depending on the state.
4. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Issued by the IRS, the EIN is used to:
File taxes
Open a business bank account
Hire employees
You can apply for an EIN for free at irs.gov. Non-US residents must apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4.
5. Register for State & Local Taxes
You may need to register for:
Sales tax permits
Franchise or excise taxes
Employment taxes
Check your local and state tax authority websites for specific rules.
6. Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
Your industry may require licenses at the federal, state, or local level (e.g., restaurants, contractors, health-related services).
Examples of permits include:
General business license
Health and safety permit
Industry-specific certification
7. Open a Business Bank Account
You’ll need the following to open a business account:
EIN
Business registration documents
Valid ID
Operating Agreement (for LLCs)
Keeping your business and personal finances separate is essential for legal and tax clarity.
Can Foreigners Register a Business in the US?
Yes! Non-citizens can register a business in the US. There are no citizenship or residency requirements to form an LLC or Corporation. However:
You must have a US-based registered agent
You can apply for an EIN
You may need a US mailing address or virtual office
BizzCrave recommends consulting with a legal advisor for cross-border regulations and tax obligations.
Costs of Registering a Business in the US
Here’s a sample breakdown of typical costs:
Service | Approximate Cost |
Name Reservation (optional) | $10 – $50 |
State Filing Fee (LLC/Corp) | $50 – $500 |
Registered Agent Service (Yearly) | $100 – $300 |
Business License/Permits | $50 – $400 |
EIN (IRS) | Free |
Trademarking Your Business Name (Optional)
If you want to protect your brand nationally, consider filing a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This adds legal protection and increases your company’s value.
Use this quick checklist to ensure you’ve covered all steps:
✅ Choose a business name
✅ Decide on a structure (LLC, Corp, etc.)
✅ Register your company with the state
✅ Apply for an EIN
✅ Register for taxes
✅ Get all necessary licenses
✅ Open a business bank account
✅ Optional: Trademark your brand
Final Thoughts from BizzCrave
Starting a business is a powerful step toward independence and growth. By learning how to register a company in the US, you're setting the foundation for success, trust, and opportunity.
At Bizz Crave, our mission is to support new entrepreneurs with clear, actionable advice. From registering your business to scaling your brand, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Keep following BizzCrave for more business tips, startup guides, and marketing strategies tailored to your journey.