The Complete Guide to Company Filing in the US
Starting a business in the United States opens doors to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets. Whether you are an entrepreneur launching a startup or an international business expanding into the US, one of the first and most crucial steps is company filing. This process ensures that your business is recognized as a legal entity and complies with federal and state laws.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about company filing in the US, including business structures, the filing process, costs, and compliance requirements.
What is Company Filing in the US?
Company filing refers to the process of legally registering a business with the appropriate state government (usually through the Secretary of State’s office). Unlike the UK, where registration happens centrally with Companies House, in the US, filing requirements vary state by state.
When you file your company in the US, you establish it as a separate legal entity, giving you:
- Protection of personal assets
- Legal authority to operate in that state
- Ability to open a business bank account
- Access to loans, investors, and tax benefits
Why Company Filing Matters in the US
✅ Legal Protection: Protects your personal assets from business debts and lawsuits.
✅ Credibility: Makes your business legitimate in the eyes of clients, banks, and investors.
✅ Tax Benefits: Many states offer lower tax rates for incorporated businesses.
✅ Growth Opportunities: A US-registered company can expand nationwide or internationally.
✅ Investor Confidence: Essential for raising venture capital or securing partnerships.
Types of Companies You Can File in the US
When filing in the US, entrepreneurs can choose from several structures, depending on their goals:
1. Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Most popular structure for small to medium businesses.
- Combines flexibility of a partnership with liability protection of a corporation.
- Profits and losses can pass directly to owners (members).
2. Corporation (C-Corp)
- Separate legal entity from its owners.
- Can issue unlimited shares, making it ideal for startups planning to raise capital.
- Subject to corporate tax rates.
3. S-Corporation (S-Corp)
- Similar to a C-Corp but allows profits/losses to pass through to shareholders’ personal tax returns.
- Avoids double taxation.
- Restricted to 100 shareholders who must be US citizens/residents.
4. Partnership
- Two or more people share ownership.
- Simple structure but no liability protection unless registered as an LLP (Limited Liability Partnership).
5. Sole Proprietorship
- Easiest and cheapest form.
- No legal separation between business and owner.
- High personal liability.
Step-by-Step Process for Company Filing in the US
Here’s a simplified overview of how filing works in most states:
Step 1: Choose a Business Structure
Decide whether you want to register as an LLC, Corporation, Partnership, or Sole Proprietorship.
Step 2: Select a State of Incorporation
Popular states include Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada, and Florida because of their business-friendly laws.
Step 3: Pick a Business Name
Your name must be unique and meet state-specific naming requirements. Most states allow an online search to check availability.
Step 4: Appoint a Registered Agent
Every company must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state to receive legal documents.
Step 5: File Formation Documents
- LLC: Articles of Organization
- Corporation: Articles of Incorporation
- Partnerships: Partnership Agreement
Step 6: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
This is issued by the IRS and acts like your business’s Social Security Number. It’s required for taxes, hiring employees, and opening a bank account.
Step 7: Register for State and Federal Taxes
Depending on your business, you may need to register for sales tax, payroll tax, and federal income tax.
Step 8: Obtain Licenses and Permits
Some industries require federal, state, or local permits before operations can begin.
Ongoing Compliance Responsibilities
Unlike one-time registration, US companies must maintain compliance through:
- Annual Reports/Statements: Filed with your state, including updated company details.
- Franchise Taxes: Paid annually in some states like Delaware.
- Federal and State Tax Returns: Filed with the IRS and your state tax authority.
- Business Licenses Renewals: Industry-specific permits may need yearly renewal.
Failure to stay compliant can result in heavy penalties or even administrative dissolution of your company.
How Elite Filing Helps Entrepreneurs in the US
At Elite Filing, we make company registration in the US fast, affordable, and stress-free. Our services include:
- LLC and Corporation Formation starting at £12.99 (equivalent in USD)
- Free domain name with company filing or virtual office packages
- Registered Agent services across all 50 states
- Audit and tax support for ongoing compliance with the IRS and state tax authorities
- Virtual office solutions to give your business a professional US presence
- Ongoing compliance reminders so you never miss deadlines
With Elite Filing, you don’t just file a company – you gain a trusted partner to guide you from startup to scale.
Final Thoughts
Filing a company in the US is the first step to building a professional and legally recognized business. The process can vary depending on the state and structure you choose, but the benefits of proper registration are undeniable – from liability protection to investor trust.
By partnering with Elite Filing, you get expert support for every step of the process, ensuring your business is compliant, credible, and ready to grow.
Ready to launch your US company?
Get in touch with Elite Filing today and start building your American business with confidence.