10 Years of US Expansion Excellence
Your trusted partner in US expansion since 2015. Celebrate with us and save 10% on selected services.
US Entity Setup & Management for International Companies.
We Care About Your US Business.
Why does it cost between $99 and $15,000 to set up a US entity?
The answer depends on the complexity of your business structure, the location of your parent company, and who you go to.
Online DIY setup costs little (at first). The factory setup model is designed for US owners. For international companies expanding to the US, entity setup requires consideration of multiple factors.
White-shoe law firms in major metropolitan areas often charge five-digit sums. The value in this approach is the firm may be managing many aspects of your company – contracts, IP, VC funding, etc.Â
At Foothold America, we specialize in removing barriers for international companies landing, expanding, and scaling in the US at a fair price. Whether you work one-on-one with our US Expansion Advisors or set up your entity ONLINE, HERE, NOW from anywhere in the world in the middle of the night, rest assured you’ll receive the same guidance. We understand the unique needs of setting up a US subsidiary or a TopCo.Â
Why is US entity setup & management so important to get right for international companies?
The US has tax treaties or totalization agreements with nearly 100 countries. When adding a US subsidiary to your international company, you must choose the best entity for your situation. Fortunately, Foothold America knows the tried and true pathways to meet your needs from anywhere in the world. Sometimes, deciding on the proper US structure involves getting tax advice from professionals qualified in the US and your home country. Through our expansive tax ecosystem, we can connect you with local, often bilingual tax advisors.
The work isn’t finished after setup. Most states require annual renewal to remain in ‘good standing’. The requirements for registering a new state in which you are ‘conducting business’ varies from state to state.Â
Partnering with Foothold America to register and manage your US entity ensures a smooth and compliant transition in your chosen state – all whilst cutting through layers of bureaucracy and allowing your company to concentrate on its larger business objectives and strategies.
OUR SERVICES
Solidify your US presence online NOW or side-by-side with a US Expansion Advisor
Register your company with ease
After thoroughly analyzing your situation, whether through online onboarding or with a US Expansion Advisor, you’ll choose the appropriate entity in the best state for your needs with confidence. We register your company immediately with no fuss!Â
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Avoid time-consuming mistakes, and let us get the EIN for your company fast! As a foreign owner, many service providers leave you to call the IRS alone. Not Foothold America; we get your EIN online immediately after state registration!Â
Remotely open a US bank account
We’ll refer you to the appropriate banking partner for your needs through our vast network, so you can open a US bank account without setting foot in the US. Coming Soon – immediate online setup of USD accounts!
Obtain a virtual address
Foothold America offers virtual physical office addresses in the 20 key US cities international companies expand to most often. Our international phone transfer and mail service is bundled in one easy package. Want to set up in a different location? You can choose from more than 600 locations across the US.Â
Manage corporate governance
As part of your US entity setup, we provide initial drafts of required by-laws for you to execute as legally binding documents. Your entity may require an Annual General Meeting (AGM). We’ll remind you and provide you with a compliant agenda.Â
Cut legal expenses
Lawyers are expensive and not always needed. Let’s discuss the best approach for your business.
REGISTER YOUR BUSINESS IN USA
When is US Entity Setup right for your business?
You intend to hire and be the direct employer of your US-based employees.
Your company’s customer list is continuously growing in the USA.
Your clients require you to have a legal entity or a US bank account.
You plan to expand and sell your company in a few years. You want the US entity, financials and processes done the US way from the start.
You want to expand with confidence that you are following US laws and avoiding penalties.
You want to focus on your business without worrying about administrative tasks and bureaucracy.
Ready to set up your US subsidiary?
STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Choose how to set up your US subsidiary.
Register NOW online or schedule a call with a US Expansion Advisor
Are you ready to register now? Our process is fully guided and developed by a team of US Expansion Advisors. You can schedule a call with a US Expansion Advisor at any time during the process, and you can save and finish registration later.Â
Select your entity type and state
This does not have to be the same state where the subsidiary is incorporated. The three states you should consider are Wyoming, Delaware, and Nevada.
Name your US Entity
Every one of the 50 states has its own rules about what kinds of names are allowed for C-Corporations or LLCs. Do your research and select the name that represents your new company best.
Choose your US virtual office or provide your own US address
Most states require every company to nominate a registered agent. A registered agent is a person or business that sends and receives legal paperwork on your behalf. Your registered agent must be a US resident of the state you’re doing business in or a corporation authorized to conduct business in that state.
Choose your US entity registration timeline
To officially register your US entity, you will need to file documents with your chosen state. For C-Corps, you will need an Article of Incorporation or Certificate of Incorporation. For LLCs, you will need to file an Article of Organization. These documents outline the organizational structure of your business.
Get your FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number)
Bylaws are agreed in a legal document that outlines and defines the internal operating procedures and agreements between the owners of a C Corporation. They often have statutory requirements on the type of information they must include. An operating agreement is similar to Bylaws, but it is used to define the agreements between the members of an LLC.
Open a US Bank Account
Obtain from the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a tax ID for your US entity.
Prepare your By-laws and register in other states as needed
You’ll need a physical address in the state of incorporation; this is necessary to open a business bank account.
Choose Entity Management for ongoing compliance
To operate in the US, you will need to set up a US bank account. This offers a number of benefits for foreign-owned C-Corps or LLCs, including the ability to trade in US dollars and have access to affordable international transfers from anywhere in the world.
Relax in the knowledge that your company compliance is being managed
The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) creates the tax code and regulations for C-Corps and LLCs.Â
Hear it from the experts...
Decades of US market experience, hundreds of success stories
US Entity Setup - Explained
US Entity Setup Timeline - Explained
Federal Tax ID (EIN) - Explained
HOW IT WORKS
We've done the hard work for you.
Find out how our Entity Setup Service works
Start NOW online or schedule with a US Expansion Advisor
We know not everyone has time to schedule a meeting. We’ve distilled the process for international companies to set up online or with a US Expansion Advisor. White glove service means you choose!
Experience guided setup with thorough enquiry and explanations
Sometimes the entity you want isn’t in your best interest for your situation. No worries, our online guided setup developed with years of experience evaluates all the variables. You can override recommentdations, save and return later, receive a tax advisor referral, or schedule with a US Expansion Advisor at any time.Â
Get your registration, EIN, virtual office and US phone number in days
Some clients need setup fast. You can choose faster setup from most states for an extra fee. We’ll outline your options and you choose. In most cases, standard setup means you’ll be set up in days. Coming soon – real-time access to your registration status.Â
Set up your US bank account
US banking is different than in much of the world. Your clients may pay you with a check, or not do business with you without a US bank account. We understand the urgency to be able to send and recieve USD ASAP. We’ll connect you with the best banking professionals for your needs. Coming Soon – online USD account setup.
US Entity Setup with and without
Foothold America
Foothold America has helped businesses worldwide save thousands of dollars compared to using an attorney or setting up their own US entity. With our Entity Setup and Management service, you can expand your business to the USA quickly, compliantly, and cost-effectively.
Expand without Foothold America
$10,000+ setup
$5,000+ annual management fees.
Â
excluding government fees
Expand with Foothold America
$2,500 setup
$200/month management
excluding government fees
Where should you register your
business entity in the US?
Choosing a business location is perhaps the most critical decision when it comes to your US entity setup. There are 50 states to choose from, and each of them has its own business regulations and tax schedules. With such a wide variety of choices, it is safe to say that some states are more business-friendly than others. The location you choose should be one that fulfils your business objectives in the most cost-effective way. At the outset, a company needs to identify which factors are the key drivers in the location choice. Read more about the three most popular states for incorporation below; Delaware, Nevada & Wyoming.Â
Delaware
Delaware is the most popular state in which to incorporate. Its advantages include the fact that it:
Offers favourable taxation rates for large businesses or those with complex structures
Does not require directors or shareholders to be residents of Delaware
Filings are processed quickly
Has a well-established Business Court of Chancery, and there's confidence and trust in the legal system among large businesses
Nevada
Nevada is another popular state for incorporation and it is easy to issue shares in Nevada. Other advantages include the fact that this state:
Generally offers a very low rate of taxation
Does not impose corporate or individual income tax
Does not require businesses to pay tax on corporation shares
Does not require directors or shareholders to be residents of Nevada
Is known for its straightforward dealings with commercial litigation
Wyoming
Wyoming has joined the list of popular states for incorporation. It offers many of the same benefits as Nevada, but at a lower tax rate.
Its annual renewal fees are inexpensive
There are no business license fees
The state emphasizes privacy and asset protection for businesses
Is known for its straightforward dealings with commercial litigation
Do you want more for your US business expansion?
Explore our People Partnership Service (PPS) and Employer of Record Service (EOR).
PEO+ Cross-Border SupportTM
Our PEO+ Cross-Border Support includes everything PEOs offer, plus the Cross-Border SupportTM international companies need to onboard US employees and manage the complex operational and HR processes of employing in America.
People Partnership Service (PPS)
We’ve created our People Management Service (PPS) to help you navigate the process of setting up your US entity, coordinating your Employer of Record (the direct employer) status, onboarding US employees, and managing the complex operational and HR processes of doing business in America. PPS is the ultimate ally for international businesses eyeing or already operating with 50+ US employees, providing the peace of mind needed to conquer the US market confidently.
Employer of Record Service (EOR)
Our Employer of Record Service offers a turn-key, cost-effective solution for your company to have a legitimate US presence with a US employee anywhere in the country in as little as one week without the cost and complexity of setting up a US entity.
Why choose to grow your business with Foothold America?
Expanding into a new global market is a complex multifaceted process.
It’s important to choose a partner you can trust.
WHO WE ARE
We're real people. Not just platforms.
Our team of experts has the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the legal and administrative maze of doing business in the US.
Joanne M. Farquharson
US entrepreneur with 30 years experience in advising small and medium-sized businesses in employee benefits, insurance, labor law compliance, and risk management. Joanne has a passion for growing small companies and helping business owners actualize their goals.
Geanice Barganier
Experienced Global Management leader with over 15 years of professional services and consulting experience. Highly knowledgeable in Human Resources, Employee Relations, Global Operations and Outsourcing. Strong Compliance background experience with employee contracts and US & Global Immigration.
Rosalynn Core
Seasoned, determined, and highly accomplished executive professional with extensive experience spearheading financial services, managing business operations, monitoring performance indicators, and delivering high-quality strategic business support to drive exponential revenue growth for top-tier companies.
Laurie Spicer
Over 25 years of experience doing business in North American, European, and Asian markets, including seven years as an International Trade Advisor with a primary focus and specialism on the complexity of the US market.
Angelique Soulet-Bangurah, PHR
Angelique takes pride in providing client solutions, using more than seven years of experience as an HR Generalist with a vast knowledge of onboarding, employee relations and overall HR operations. She’s certified by the HR Certification Institute as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR).
Robert R. Esquijarosa
Experienced HR & Client Success professional with a demonstrated 15-year history of working in employee relations, payroll & benefits administration, compliance, and recruitment within multiple industries throughout the US and UK.
Jisselle Douglas
Jisselle oversees and optimises the organisation’s key business strategies and operational workflows. With a strong focus on process efficiency and innovation, Jisselle leads cross-functional projects to drive continuous improvement, ensuring that all processes align with the company’s long-term goals and objectives. With a background in business process management and operational excellence, Jisselle brings a wealth of expertise in streamlining operations and fostering strategic initiatives that enhance overall business performance.
Jamie Neill
With 19+ years of experience, this seasoned specialist in US Human Resources brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Highly skilled in various areas, including benefits management, talent acquisition, employee performance improvement, workforce planning and development, as well as the effective deployment of HRIS systems and process enhancements, Jamie has a proven track record of successfully driving HR strategies and initiatives. Jamie’s comprehensive knowledge and hands-on experience make her an invaluable asset in navigating the complex US HR landscape.
Natalie Gombalova
This conversion-minded marketer is responsible for strategizing, planning and creating high-calibre content for our website visitor’s digital experience. With over seven years in marketing, Natalie specialises in PPC, SEO, emerging trends, and customer behavioural insights that help clients find the best solutions for their business needs.
Liz Gamarra
Liz’s experience as an accountant spans two decades; during which time she has worked with individuals, businesses, and organizations within industries such as Tax, Automotive and Electric. Liz has also worked on various business consulting projects, including bookkeeping and financial analysis. A proactive and detail-orientated employee, Liz has worked in AR, AP and financial reporting and is considered an expert in tax planning and compliance.
Robert Johnson
Robert is the Co-founder of several successful US and UK life science companies. He serves as the Board Chair of Foothold America influencing the direction of the company.
CLIENT REVIEWS
Since 2015, thousands of businesses have put their trust in Foothold America.
"Foothold America was able to get things done for us very quickly. They made life easier for us and worked with us to make sure staff were looked after and that we were able to get up and running."
Operations Manager, UK Network Security Company
"We needed to access the US market to maximize our potential for growth. We selected our employee and Foothold America managed the payroll and payroll taxes, benefits, taxes and other employee logistics, enabling us to avoid dealing with the bureaucratic maze of employing someone in the US."
CEO, Belgium Manufacturing Company
"Foothold America was instrumental in helping my UK company employ field applications sales people in the US without having to set up a US subsidiary, which is the usual route for foreign companies. Foothold America facilitated this by employing the people we had chosen and handling all the employment, terms, salaries, taxes, social costs etc. They then billed us monthly for these costs plus a reasonable service charge. As a result, we were able get going very quickly with our own people in the USA and at a much lower cost base."
CEO, UK Biotech Company
"I couldn’t manage our US subsidiary without Foothold America. Our small HR department isn’t equipped with the knowledge or staff to handle our US employees. I could end my workday in the UK knowing Foothold America would take care of everything in the US."
Head of HR, UK financial services firm
"We currently use Foothold America's Employer of Record Service and plan to move to their People Partnership Service when we set up an entity in the coming months. It’s great knowing we can work with one partner through various stages of our growth."
CMO, Norway IT company
"We started US expansion on our own and soon after, we stumbled over employee benefits leaving our expat staff and families without healthcare insurance. It was a huge risk for them and our company. Foothold America came in and got us sorted. They’ve been taking care of us ever since."
Sr. People Partner, UK software company
ENTITY SETUP
Our Pricing
- Scroll Right
Simple Set-up
Set-up Plus
* Register entity in Delaware - LLC or C-corporation
Provide DE Certificate of Incorporation
* Register Company name
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
* File Registered Agent @ 75% discount
** Renew Registered Agent service @ 75% discount
Email Annual Report (Franchise Tax) reminder for DE
* Submit Annual Report (Franchise Tax) to state of DE
* State registration for Company Headquarters
* Obtain Certificate of Good Standing in DE
Provider Shareholder Agreement bespoke document and up to five hours of consulting
Minutes - First Board of Directors Meeting (required)
Minutes - Bank resolution (required)
Office address set-up assistance
Bank account set-up assistance
Fees
*Extra fees apply **For current EOR & PPS clients
$1,500
$2,500
RESOURCES
FAQ’s
Get answers to all your questions and take the first step towards a US business expansion.
There are various types of US entities you can register, such as Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), Corporations (C-Corp or S-Corp), Partnerships, and Sole Proprietorships. Each structure has its own advantages and considerations. Understanding the differences can help you choose the most suitable entity for your business needs.
The process of registering a US entity typically involves several steps. It begins with choosing a business structure, selecting a name, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), and registering with the Secretary of State office. Additionally, each state may have its own requirements. If you’d like to find out more, please get in touch with one of our US Expansion Advisors today!
Yes, non-residents can register a US entity. However, there may be additional requirements and considerations for non-resident business owners. It is essential to understand the specific regulations and seek expert guidance to navigate the process successfully. Contact us today to find out more.
Registering a US entity can provide several benefits, including limited liability protection, credibility with customers and partners, access to US markets, and potential tax advantages. By having a registered US entity, you can establish a formal presence, build trust, and access the numerous opportunities available in the US business landscape.
Generally, setting up a US subsidiary does require some form of physical presence, such as a registered office or a designated agent in the United States. This presence is necessary for legal and administrative purposes. However, it doesn’t mean that you need to open a full-fledged office or have employees on the ground. You may explore options such as virtual offices or co-working spaces to meet the initial requirement.
A Federal Tax ID number (sometimes referred to as an EIN or Employer Identification Number) is essential if you want to run your business in America. This nine-digit number is assigned to you by IRS for tax filing and reporting purposes. With it, you can also open a bank account, hire employees, contribute towards employees’ 401(k) plans, and even file for bankruptcy. While most businesses must have an EIN, this is optional for some single-owner companies.
If your business is operating in the USA, you will need to report the profits that you make. The amount of tax you will pay is dependent on how much profit you make, how your company is structured as well as several other factors, so seeking assistance from an international tax advisor is key in making sure that you are and remain fully compliant with the rules and regulations for running your business in America.
If your US subsidiary has 50 or more full-time equivalent US workers, you are expected to contribute to your employee’s healthcare. Failure to do so may make your subsidiary subject to a tax penalty. Additionally, you can also choose to provide healthcare even if you have less than 50 US employees. To make this more affordable for you as a business, you may be able to benefit from tax credits.Â
To attract and retain employees, US employers should offer healthcare benefits, since health insurance is one of the most desired benefits among US employees.
A 401(k) is a defined contribution retirement plan employers offer to their US workers. The US government allows employees to make tax free savings for their retirement using a 401(k) plan. These savings can be directed into investments listed in the plan, and employees can withdraw the funds once they’ve reached the retirement age designated by the Social Security Administration. However, you must be aware that employees can withdraw funds under certain special provisions or if they’re willing to pay a penalty for early withdrawal. Not all US employers offer 401(k) plans – some will match a certain percentage of an employee’s contribution instead or offer alternative benefits.
GET IN TOUCH
Contact Us
Request a quote, talk with our US expansion experts or ask any questions. We will get back to you via email in less than 24 hours.
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