Frequently Asked

Common Questions, Direct Answers

Do I need to visit the US to form a company or open a bank account?
No. The entire process, including bank account opening, is handled remotely. Company formation, EIN registration, and US bank account setup can all be completed without setting foot in the United States. This is one of our core differentiators: we are one of the only companies that can open a real US bank account for non-resident founders without requiring an in-person visit.
How long does it take to form a company?
State processing typically takes 3–7 business days after filing. Expedited filing is available in most states for an additional fee. Once formed, EIN registration takes an additional 2–4 weeks.
Which is better for me, Delaware or Wyoming?
It depends on your business type and goals. If you are raising venture capital, Delaware is almost always the right choice. If you are a solo founder running an e-commerce business or consulting firm, Wyoming's lower costs and privacy protections often make more sense. We help you decide during your free consultation.
What is the difference between an EIN and an ITIN?
An EIN is for your company, your business's tax ID, required for banking, tax filing, and hiring. An ITIN is for you personally, a tax ID for individuals who need to file US taxes but don't have an SSN. Not every founder needs an ITIN; it depends on your entity structure and tax situation.
Can I really open a US bank account as a non-resident?
Yes. Most founders are told it's impossible or that they need to fly to the US. That is not the case when you work with Founders Gateway. We have established relationships with banks and platforms that welcome international founders, and we manage the entire application process remotely on your behalf.
What taxes will I owe?
Depends on entity type, where revenue comes from, and whether a tax treaty exists between the US and your home country. A Wyoming LLC owned by a non-resident with no US-sourced income may owe zero federal income tax but still needs to file an informational return. A Delaware C-Corp is taxed on worldwide income at the corporate level. We strongly recommend working with a US-qualified tax advisor, we can refer you to specialists.
What happens if I don't file my annual report or pay franchise tax?
Your company will lose its good standing. If unresolved, the state will administratively dissolve your entity, meaning your company legally ceases to exist. Reinstatement is possible but expensive and time-consuming. This is exactly why our compliance management service exists.
Do you offer refunds?
State filing fees are non-refundable because they are paid directly to the government. Our service fees have a specific refund policy that we share before you sign any agreement. Ask about this during your consultation.
Can I form multiple companies?
Absolutely. Many founders form separate entities for different business lines or for liability separation. We offer multi-entity support and can advise on the best structure.
What if I already have a US company but need help with compliance?
We work with existing companies as well. Whether you need a new registered agent, help catching up on overdue filings, or ongoing compliance management, we can step in at any point.
Glossary

US Business Terms You Should Know

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

Flexible US business structure providing personal liability protection while allowing profits to pass through to personal tax returns without corporate-level taxation.

C-Corporation (C-Corp)

Business structure taxed as a separate entity from its owners. Required by most US venture capital investors. Allows multiple stock classes.

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Required for banking, tax filing, and hiring.

ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)

Personal tax ID issued by the IRS to individuals not eligible for an SSN but who need to file US taxes.

Registered Agent

Person or service designated to receive legal documents and government correspondence on behalf of your US company. Required in every state of incorporation.

Articles of Organization

The document filed with a state to officially create an LLC. Equivalent to a birth certificate for your company.

Certificate of Incorporation

The document filed with a state to officially create a corporation. Delaware's version of Articles of Incorporation.

Operating Agreement

Internal document outlining how an LLC is managed, how profits are distributed, and how decisions are made. Essential for banking and investor relations.

Franchise Tax

Annual fee charged by certain states for the privilege of having your company registered there. Owed regardless of whether your company earns revenue.

Good Standing

Status indicating your company has met all state requirements. Banks, partners, and government agencies frequently request a Certificate of Good Standing.

Foreign Qualification

The process of registering your company in a state other than where it was formed, because it is conducting business in that additional state.

Pass-Through Taxation

Tax treatment where business income passes directly to owners' personal tax returns rather than being taxed at the company level. Standard for LLCs.

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