A US company opens access to the world's largest market, dollar settlements and US payment systems. The tax system is more complex than in Asia: federal level plus states. Rates, forms and pitfalls for foreign founders.
US business taxes
| Tax | Rate | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Federal corporate income tax (C-Corp) | 21% | Flat rate since 2018 |
| State taxes | 0-9% | Nevada, Wyoming, South Dakota - no income tax; Delaware 8.7% |
| LLC (pass-through) | Owner's rates | The company pays no tax - profit flows to the owner's return |
| Dividend withholding | 30% for non-residents | Reduced by tax treaties |
Compare the burden in the tax calculator: the base 21% federal rate is built in.
C-Corp or LLC
- C-Corp - classic for raising investment and US clients; pays 21% + state tax; suits venture structures and options.
- LLC - profit "passes through" to owners at personal rates; simpler, but not for investors.
Opening a company: step by step
- Pick a state: Delaware - reputation and courts, Wyoming/Nevada - low taxes and privacy.
- Register via a registered agent - 1-5 days, remotely.
- Get an EIN from the IRS - for non-residents via form SS-4, 4-8 weeks.
- Open an account - banks require a visit or video KYC (Mercury, Relay for startups).
Typical mistakes
- Opening an LLC and forgetting annual reports and state franchise tax - penalties and dissolution.
- Ignoring tax residency: the owner must report the controlled company and income.
- Counting on anonymity: banks and the IRS see beneficial owners fully.
FAQ
Do I need to travel to the US?
No: registration and EIN are remote. Banking often uses video KYC.
What are the running costs?
Registration $500-1,500, agent $100-300/year, accounting from $1,000/year, franchise tax up to $500.
Can I open without a visa?
Yes, no visa is needed to incorporate or own. Managing from inside the US requires a business visa.