US Entity Setup Service. Establish Your Business in USA.
Setting up a US entity for your business from your home country can take precious time and resources. Why not set up a US entity for your business with a globally trusted partner and ensure your new US entity meets the highest standards of compliance? Then you can grow your global footprint with confidence.
What is the US Entity Setup Service?
Are you a foreign company doing or planning to do business in the United States? Then this solution is just for you! Establishing a legal entity in the US brings enormous growth potential – and a unique set of challenges and complications. Partnering with Foothold America to establish your US entity ensures a smooth and compliant transition in your chosen state – all whilst cutting through layers of bureaucracy and giving your company the freedom to concentrate on its larger business objectives and strategies.
OUR SERVICES
Solidify your US presence
Secure your company name with ease
Secure your company name immediately with no fuss! Obtaining your company name can be a confusing task, so why not let our staff of professionals handle it for you?
Secure Business Identification Numbers
Avoid time-consuming mistakes and let us secure the necessary business numbers for your company, fast! Foothold America will do it right the first time!
Remotely open a US bank account
We’ll refer you to banking partners who help you open a US bank account without setting foot in the US!
Obtain a virtual address
With our network of providers, you can select a virtual business address in any of the 50 states with multiple options to choose from.
Ensure compliant by-laws
As part of your US entity setup, we provide you with initial drafts of required by-laws for you to execute as legally binding documents.
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
How to set up a US Subsidiary?
Choose the company type of your US subsidiary
The first step to setting up your US subsidiary is to choose the type of company, which most typically will be a C-Corporation, with the second option being an LLC.
Select a state to locate your company
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 and confirm the business address
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.
Hire a Registered Agent Service
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.
Register your US Entity with the state
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.
Create a Corporation Bylaws or an LLC Operating Agreement
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.
Get an EIN
Obtain from the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a tax ID for your US entity.
Get a US Mailing Address
You’ll need a physical address in the state of incorporation; this is necessary to open a business bank account.
Open a US Bank Account
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.
Prepare for US Tax Filing
The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) creates the tax code and regulations for C-Corps and LLCs.
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'll do the hard work for you.
Find out how our Entity Setup Service works
Choose your US Business Structure
Once you select your entity type and structure with the advice of a tax professional, we secure your company name and file your C-corporation or Limited Liability Company (LLC) paperwork.
Pick a state for your US operations
After establishing your company in your chosen state, you choose a US business address for your headquarters. We can help you secure a virtual address, and once you have this, we can apply for a business identification number from the IRS on your behalf.
Set up your US Bank Account
When your company formation is complete, and we have your Articles back from the state, with your IRS tax ID letter, we can put you in touch with our banking partners.
Ensure Annual Compliance
It is crucial to choose the right company to manage your annual compliance filings. We ensure you don’t miss any deadlines or make costly mistakes.
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 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.
excluding government fees
Expand with Foothold America
$2,500 setup
$200/month management
excluding government fees
Where should you establish 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.
Further reading
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 efficient handling of 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 efficient handling of 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.
Building bridges across borders starts with understanding that every business's American dream deserves expert guidance to become reality.
Joanne M. Farquharson
President & CEO
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.
Global expansion succeeds when clients feel supported at every step, from their first employee to their hundredth.
Geanice Barganier
Chief Client Officer
Experienced Global Management leader with over 20 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.
Financial clarity turns international ambition into sustainable American growth.
Rosalynn Core
Senior VP of Finance & Accounting
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.
Streamlined operations turn expansion goals into achievable milestones across borders.
Jisselle Douglas
Associate Vice President of Business Operations
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.
Guiding clients from market entry to long-term US success means transforming operational complexities into clear pathways.
Laurie Spicer
Director of US Expansion
As an American citizen based in the UK, Laurie has over 25 years of experience navigating the complexities of the US market. Throughout her career, she has guided countless clients to achieve commercial growth and long-term success in the US. With expertise in HR, employment, US operational frameworks, strategic market-entry guidance, and practical business insights, she is a trusted partner for companies pursuing success in the United States.
Finding and onboarding the right US talent shouldn't be complicated. We make it simple.
Angelique Soulet-Bangurah, PHR
Head of EOR Services & Talent Acquisition Lead
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).
Strategic partnerships across continents create pathways for businesses to thrive in the world's largest market.
Mark Stimpfig
Strategic Growth Advisor
As Co-Founder of GTM Global, Mark has established strategic partnerships with key service providers and industry leaders across the UK, US, and Europe. Previously serving as Development Director for Greater Phoenix Economic Council, AZ from London, Mark's proven track record in facilitating transatlantic business growth and deep understanding of market entry complexities enables him to provide comprehensive guidance to clients.
Connecting international businesses with the right US expansion solutions starts with understanding their unique journey.
Natalie Gombalova
Senior Marketing Manager
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.
Detail-oriented financial reporting and tax compliance expertise gives international businesses the solid US accounting foundation they need to grow.
Liz Gamarra
Accountant & Tax Manager
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. 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.
Strategic financial planning turns US expansion aspirations into measurable business success.
Greg Burghauser
Accountant & Bookkeeping Manager
Greg brings extensive accounting expertise developed over 20 years in the field. His comprehensive experience includes tax preparation, financial analysis, and bookkeeping services for individuals and businesses across diverse industries.
Designing scalable systems and optimized workflows ensures every client's US expansion runs smoothly from day one.
Stefanie Day
Programme and Process Administrator
Stefanie oversees internal workflows and process optimization across the organization, ensuring seamless operations and enhanced efficiency. With a strong background in digital marketing and automation, she designs and implements scalable systems that streamline administrative processes and support cross-functional collaboration.
People-first HR support helps businesses create thriving workplaces in their new American market.
Tiffany Hill
Client Service Administrator
With 15 years of HR experience, Tiffany has led every part of the employee experience, from recruiting and onboarding to payroll, benefits, compliance, and building positive workplace culture. She’s known for her hands-on, people-first approach and ability to navigate complex HR challenges with ease.
Connecting business systems across borders creates the digital infrastructure that powers smooth US operations.
Fabio Sarmento
Integrations Specialist
Fabio is responsible for designing and implementing integration solutions that connect critical business systems and drive operational efficiency. With extensive experience in ERP platforms, automation, and system architecture, these initiatives focus on streamlining data flows and enhancing connectivity across the organization.
Coordinating US expansion means ensuring every client interaction feels personal, every detail is handled, and nothing falls through the cracks.
Amelia Spicer
US Expansion Coordinator
Final-year American Politics student and dual US-UK citizen with a deep understanding of U.S. culture and politics, shaped by academic focus and regular travel to the United States. Previous experience of eLearning solutions for international clients, with a strong track record of effective cross-cultural communication in professional settings.
Every pixel and line of code on our website exists to make US expansion feel less daunting and more achievable.
Dumitru Butucel
Web Developer
Web developer and security specialist with over 15 years of experience building and maintaining high-performance websites across 40+ countries. Expert in WordPress development, malware removal, and technical optimization. Dumitru brings proven expertise in creating secure, reliable digital solutions that support business growth.
First-hand experience building successful transatlantic companies shaped our mission to simplify US expansion for businesses worldwide.
Robert Johnson
Board Chair
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.
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).
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.
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, hundreds of businesses have put their trust in Foothold America for US company setup.
"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.
What are the different types of US entities I can register?
The main options are the C-Corporation and the limited liability company (LLC). Partnerships, sole proprietorships and S-Corporations also exist, but S-Corporations cannot have non-resident foreign shareholders. Most UK and European companies expanding to the US form a C-Corporation subsidiary. It suits investment, separates liabilities from the parent and is familiar to US banks and customers.
Should I set up an LLC or a C-Corp?
For most international companies, a C-Corp is the better fit. It is familiar to investors, banks and large US customers, and it avoids pass-through complications for foreign owners. A foreign-owned single-member LLC must file Form 5472, with a $25,000 penalty for missing it. Our guide to LLC vs C-Corp for foreign founders covers the trade-offs.
What is the process of registering a US entity?
Registration follows a set order. You choose an entity type and state, check the name, appoint a registered agent and file formation documents with the Secretary of State. You then adopt bylaws or an operating agreement, obtain an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service and open a bank account. Our US Entity Setup service handles each step remotely.
Can non-residents register a US entity?
Yes. You do not need to be a US citizen or live in the US to own or direct a US company. You need a registered agent with a physical address in your chosen state. Without a Social Security Number, you apply for an EIN by phone, fax or mail. Banks may also ask for extra checks.
What are the benefits of registering a US entity?
A US entity separates US liabilities from your parent company and gives you a local legal identity. Many large US customers prefer, or insist on, contracting with a US company. It also lets you hire employees directly, open a US bank account and present a more credible local presence to investors, partners and procurement teams.
Do you need to have a physical presence in the United States to set up a US subsidiary?
No. You do not need a US office or US staff to form a subsidiary. Every state does require a registered agent with a physical street address in that state. Many companies add a virtual office for mail and a business address. Hiring or opening premises in another state may also trigger a separate registration there.
What is a Federal Tax ID number, and why do US businesses need it?
A Federal Tax ID, or Employer Identification Number (EIN), is a nine-digit number the Internal Revenue Service issues to identify a business. You need it to file federal tax returns, run payroll and open most US bank accounts. The Internal Revenue Service charges no fee for an EIN. Applicants without a Social Security Number apply by phone, fax or mail.
Do foreign corporations have to report profits if they operate in the USA?
Yes. A US subsidiary files a federal corporate return, Form 1120, and pays federal tax on its taxable income at 21%. State income or franchise taxes may also apply where it operates. A foreign company trading in the US without a subsidiary may still have US filing duties. Speak to a qualified US tax adviser about your position.
How long does US entity setup take?
Usually a few weeks from first filing to a working company. State filing is often quick, especially with expedited services. Obtaining an EIN without a Social Security Number takes longer, because fax and mail applications are slower than online ones. Bank account approval adds further time. Our US subsidiary setup timeline breaks down each stage.
What ongoing compliance does a US entity need after setup?
A US entity has yearly state and federal duties. Most states require an annual report or franchise tax payment, and a registered agent must stay in place. The company files a federal tax return each year, and payroll filings apply once you hire. Missing deadlines can cost the company its good standing with the state.
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.
Global HQ
68 Harrison Avenue 6th Floor Boston, MA 02111 (617) 702-3402