If you’re planning to expand your business into the United States, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of international founders and small business owners choose to set up their companies in the US thanks to its business-friendly policies, global reach, and growth opportunities. But here’s the thing — without the right roadmap, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why I’ve put together the ultimate checklist to start your US company hassle-free in 2025.
At Leegal LLC, we’ve helped hundreds of founders successfully launch their US businesses — so everything I’m sharing here comes from first-hand experience. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a small business owner, this guide will save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Why Start a US Company in 2025?
Before we dive into the checklist to start your US company, let’s talk about why 2025 is the perfect time:
- Access to a Global Market – The US remains the world’s largest consumer economy.
- Investor-Friendly Environment – Most VCs and angel investors prefer US-registered companies.
- Easy Digital Banking – With fintech integration, opening a US business bank account has never been easier.
- Tax Advantages – States like Wyoming and Delaware offer low-maintenance, business-friendly tax laws.
- Easier Client Acquisition – US-based businesses often win client trust faster.
But — and this is crucial — to make the most of these benefits, you must follow a proper setup process. Let’s jump into the ultimate checklist.
The Ultimate Checklist to Start Your US Company
This is your step-by-step guide to launching a US company hassle-free in 2025. Each step is based on real cases we’ve handled at Leegal LLC.
Step 1: Choose the Right Business Structure
Your business structure defines taxation, compliance, and ownership flexibility. Here are the most common types:
- LLC (Limited Liability Company) – Best for small business owners and international founders due to flexible taxation and minimal paperwork.
- C-Corp – Ideal for startups seeking venture capital funding.
- S-Corp – Better for US residents, but not available for most non-US founders.
Pro Tip: At Leegal LLC, we’ve seen 80% of non-US founders choose LLCs because they’re easier to manage and great for Amazon FBA, e-commerce, and SaaS startups.
Step 2: Name Check & Clearance
Before you start filing, make sure your business name is:
- Unique (not used by another company in your chosen state)
- Trademark-free (to avoid legal disputes later)
- Domain-friendly (helps build your online presence)
Leegal LLC handles a comprehensive name check for you to save time and avoid rejection delays.
Step 3: Appoint a Registered Agent
US law requires every company to have a registered agent — someone who can receive official documents on behalf of your business.
With Leegal LLC, your registered agent service is included for free for the first year. That means no surprise costs later.
Step 4: File the Articles of Incorporation
This is the official document that registers your company with the state. It includes:
- Company name & structure
- Registered agent details
- Business purpose
- Owner(s) or member(s)
Leegal LLC takes care of preparing and filing these documents, ensuring your application is compliant from day one.
Step 5: Get Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)
An EIN is like a Social Security Number for your business. Without it, you can’t:
- Open a US business bank account
- File taxes
- Hire employees
Most founders struggle here, especially non-US residents. At Leegal LLC, we secure your EIN quickly, even if you don’t have a US SSN.
Step 6: Open Your US Business Bank Account
Here’s where many founders make mistakes — choosing the wrong bank or failing to meet compliance checks. But don’t worry; we guide you through:
- Opening a digital US bank account
- Linking your EIN & company documents
- Setting up multi-currency accounts for global transactions
This step is critical for smooth operations and seamless client payments.
Step 7: Set Up a Business Mailing Address
A US business mailing address boosts your credibility with clients, banks, and government agencies.
With Leegal LLC, you get:
- A professional US mailing address
- Mailroom access
- Digital forwarding of your important business documents
Step 8: Digital Document Access & Mailroom Setup
We ensure you have 24/7 access to your incorporation documents, EIN approval letters, and compliance filings. This saves you from dealing with lost paperwork and keeps your business audit-ready.
Step 9: Maintain Ongoing Compliance
Even after your company is formed, there are yearly obligations:
- Annual state filings
- Tax submissions
- Registered agent renewals
Leegal LLC provides lifetime support, ensuring your business stays compliant without hidden fees.
Common Mistakes Non-US Founders Make
From working with hundreds of clients, here are the top mistakes we’ve seen founders make:
- Choosing the wrong business structure
- Not applying for an EIN early enough
- Ignoring state-specific tax rules
- Failing to maintain annual compliance
- Using personal bank accounts instead of a dedicated US business account
The good news? Every one of these mistakes is avoidable with the right checklist and guidance.
How Leegal LLC Helps You Start Your US Company Hassle-Free
Unlike generic formation services, Leegal LLC takes a full-service approach. You get:
- One Price, No Surprises — no hidden fees, upsells, or unexpected taxes.
- End-to-End Support — from name clearance to bank account setup.
- Lifetime Chat, Call & Email Assistance — we don’t just register your company; we stay with you.
- Expert Guidance — every step is handled by specialists who’ve helped hundreds of founders.
Think of us as your business partner, not just a registration service.
Pro Tips from First-Hand Experience
- Start Early – Getting your EIN and bank account sorted takes time, so plan ahead.
- Pick the Right State – Wyoming and Delaware are the most popular for non-US founders due to tax advantages.
- Keep Digital Copies Ready – Banks and payment processors will ask for them often.
- Plan for Compliance – Don’t wait until tax deadlines to think about filings.
These tips come directly from helping founders avoid costly mistakes in the past.
Conclusion
Starting a business in the US doesn’t have to be complicated — you just need the right checklist to start your US company the right way. In 2025, with Leegal LLC’s expert guidance, you can start your US company hassle-free — no confusion, no delays, and no hidden costs.
If you’re ready to expand globally and unlock new opportunities, Leegal LLC is here to make it happen.
Start Your US Company Hassle-Free
FAQ – Checklist to Start Your US Company
Q1. What is the first step in the checklist to start your US company?
The first step is choosing the right business structure (LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp) based on your goals and future growth plans.
Q2. Can non-US founders register a company in the US?
Absolutely. At Leegal LLC, we specialize in helping non-US founders set up companies hassle-free.
Q3. Do I need a US address to open a company?
Yes, but Leegal LLC provides a professional business mailing address and mailroom services as part of our package.
Q4. How long does it take to start my US company?
On average, it takes 5–10 business days, depending on the state and whether you need expedited processing.
Q5. Why choose Leegal LLC?
Because we make the entire process simple, transparent, and affordable — with one price, no surprises.
