Independent · Research-Driven · No Affiliate Bias
Don't form a US LLC because a blog told you to. Build the route that actually works.
Formation.Legal helps non-US founders compare payment access, banking risk, address requirements, annual compliance, 3-year costs, and formation providers before they spend money.
The reality check
What most guides won't tell you
High Banking Risk
Some US banking routes are harder for founders without US operations or documentable presence. Eligibility varies by bank, country, and business profile.
Hidden Compliance Costs
State franchise taxes and registered agent fees can trap you. We calculate the true 3-year cost of ownership.
Stripe & PayPal Limits
LLC formation does not guarantee payment processor access. We map routes that may support a Stripe application or reduce common review friction.
Decision pillars
Choose your route
Explore our research pillars tailored to specific operational hurdles.
Payment Access
Does a US company actually unlock Stripe, PayPal, and global payments for your situation?
Address & Banking
Which address works where — and can you actually open a US bank account?
Compliance
What happens after formation — Form 5472, BOI, EIN, annual filings, and penalties.
Providers
Route-based provider comparisons — not which pays the highest commission, but which fits your route.
Playbooks
Country + business model + payment goal playbooks for non-US founders.
Latest research
Latest Guides
BOI Reporting in 2026: What Non-US Founders Actually Need to Know
BOI reporting requirements changed in March 2025. Learn who must still file, who is exempt, deadlines, and what non-US founders need to do in 2026.
Form 5472 for Foreign-Owned LLCs: What Non-US Founders Must Know in 2026
Learn when and how to file Form 5472 as a foreign-owned US LLC owner. Includes $25,000 penalties, deadlines, NRA requirements, and the pro forma 1120 process.
Registered Agent Address vs Business Address: What Non-US Founders Actually Need in 2026
Can you use a registered agent address for Stripe, bank accounts, EIN, PayPal, or Amazon? Learn what your RA address is actually for and what the platforms actually accept in 2026.