In this guide
You can form a company in any of the fifty states, and you do not have to live there. The state you choose is where the company is formed and where its formation record lives. Each state sets its own filing fee, yearly requirements and rules.
Things to compare
- Formation fee. Each state charges to file. We show it separately from our service fee and pass it through at cost.
- Yearly costs. Some states charge an annual report or franchise tax. These vary a lot and can change.
- Privacy. States differ in how much information about owners is public.
- Speed. Processing times vary by state and over time.
- Where you do business. If you have an office, employees or customers in a state, you may need to register there too, even if the company was formed elsewhere.
States people often consider
Wyoming and Delaware are popular because of their business laws and clear processes. Florida and Texas are common for companies that will operate there. For other states, Fae can look up the details we keep on file and tell you whether the figures are verified or estimated.
Forming in one state and operating in another
A company formed in one state that does business in another may have to file a foreign registration in the second state. That adds cost and paperwork, so it is worth considering before you choose.
Where to find the numbers
Current fees and deadlines are on each state page and in Fae's answers. They are not repeated here because they change.
If your choice depends on taxes or on how an investor will treat the company, a licensed professional can advise you on your case.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
General information, not legal or tax advice. If your case needs it, a licensed attorney or accountant can advise you. Read the disclaimer