FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Answers to the questions entrepreneurs ask when forming their US company from abroad.

General questions

Can I form a US company without being a resident?

Yes. An LLC can be formed and owned by people who do not live in the United States, with no visa, no SSN and no travel.

How long does it take to form an LLC?

It mostly depends on the state: from a few business days to a few weeks after filing. We prepare your file as soon as we have all your information.

Can I get an EIN without a Social Security number?

Yes. Foreign owners file Form SS-4 with the IRS by fax or by mail. Timelines are set by the IRS and cannot be guaranteed.

What is the difference between a registered agent and a business address?

The registered agent, which is required, receives legal documents in the state of formation. The business address, which is optional, is for your business mail. They are two separate services.

Can you open a US bank account for me?

We prepare your application and point you to suitable options, but the decision to open an account belongs solely to the bank.

Which tax returns do I need to file?

A single-member LLC owned by a foreigner generally files Form 5472 with a pro forma 1120 every year. Your exact obligations depend on your structure and your activities.

Are state fees included in your prices?

No. State fees are shown separately, state by state, so you know exactly what goes to the state and what pays for our services.

Does ClicGlow provide legal or tax advice?

No. ClicGlow is an administrative services provider. For personal advice, we refer you to licensed professionals.

LLC formation

Which state should I choose for my LLC?

There is no single best state. Wyoming and New Mexico have low annual fees, and Delaware is popular with investors. If you have a physical presence or employees in another state, that state may require registration. We explain the differences; for personal advice, consult a professional.

Do I need to travel to the United States?

No. Forming an LLC is done entirely remotely. Some banks may ask for an interview or a branch visit; that depends on the bank.

Is the Operating Agreement mandatory?

A few states require it, most do not. It is still strongly recommended: it shows who owns the company and is usually required to open a bank account.

EIN assistance

Can I apply for an EIN online?

The IRS online application requires an SSN or ITIN. Foreign owners without one apply by fax or by mail.

Do I need an ITIN to get my EIN?

No. An EIN can be obtained without an ITIN. The ITIN is a separate personal number, useful in other tax situations.

What if I lost my EIN letter?

The IRS can issue a verification letter (147C) at the request of the company's responsible party.

Registered agent

Can I be my own registered agent?

Only if you have a physical address in the state of formation and are available during business hours. That is rarely possible for a non-resident.

Can I use the agent's address as my business address?

No. The agent's address is for receiving legal documents. For business mail, use a dedicated business address.

What happens if I change agents?

A change of agent form is filed with the state. State fees may apply.

Business address

Can I use this address on my website and invoices?

Yes, that is what it is for. Do check the rules of each platform you use.

Is it a residential address or an office?

Neither: it is a mail receiving address. You cannot receive visitors there.

How long does activation take?

The address is activated once your USPS Form 1583 and IDs are approved.

Banking assistance

Can you guarantee me a bank account?

No. Nobody can guarantee an account: the decision belongs to the bank, which applies its own criteria.

Do I need an EIN to open an account?

Yes, in almost every case. The EIN letter is one of the documents requested.

Can my country of residence be a problem?

Some providers limit the countries they accept. We point out the options compatible with your profile when we know of them.

Tax and compliance

Does my LLC have to file if it has no revenue?

For a single-member LLC owned by a foreigner, Form 5472 is generally due as soon as there is any transaction with the owner, including paying the formation costs.

Will I pay taxes in the United States?

It depends on the nature of your income, its connection to the United States and any applicable tax treaties. A licensed professional should review your situation.

What about my country of residence?

Income from a pass-through LLC is often taxable in your country of residence. Consult a local tax advisor.

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From $297/year, plus state fees · No US residency or SSN required