Hello everyone,
For those engaged in global business or cross-border payments, registering a U.S. company is often a practical solution to address compliance and payment challenges.
Yet, common questions still persist:
“What’s the safest and most efficient way to register?”
“What needs to be done after the company is set up?”
“What are SSN and ITIN, and why do they matter?”

This guide aims to walk you through the entire process and the rationale behind each step. It’s detailed—so we recommend bookmarking it for later reference.

Ⅰ. Why Register a U.S. Company?

Before diving into the registration process, it’s worth confirming whether your business falls into one of the following categories:

• You intend to activate Stripe, Payoneer, or a U.S. business bank account — a U.S. entity helps with account verification and facilitates flexible currency exchange.

• You're building an independent eCommerce site, targeting customers in Europe or North America — an LLC boosts credibility.

• You plan to operate on Amazon US, Walmart, or similar platforms — these often require local corporate credentials.

• You are exploring asset protection or tax planning — as the U.S. is not part of CRS, financial privacy is comparatively stronger.

If any of the above apply, then forming a U.S. company is a suitable and strategic decision.

Ⅱ. Understanding the Basics: State Selection & Company Type

Before registering, it's important to grasp some foundational concepts — such as the significance of different U.S. states and corporate structures. This will ensure clarity and informed decision-making as you proceed.

【Choosing a State】

Usually, you may register in any of the 50 states or in the District of Columbia. However, tax regimes vary considerably across jurisdictions.
Below is a simplified comparison of popular registration states:

They offer simplicity and lower maintenance costs — ideal for individual founders.

【Choosing the Right Company Structure】

Foreigners typically choose between LLC and C-Corp. The third common type, S-Corp, is restricted to U.S. residents.

1. LLC (Limited Liability Company)

The most flexible and common structure, suited to independent sellers, developers, SaaS founders, and freelancers.

• Easy to establish (can be a single-member entity)

• Tax flexibility: may file taxes as an individual or business

• Minimal maintenance: no payroll obligations, lower compliance requirements

However, LLCs are less suited for equity financing or issuing shares — making them less attractive for VCs or larger enterprises.

2. C-Corp (Corporation)

Standard share-based company — appropriate for startups seeking funding, equity structuring, or future IPOs.

• Can issue shares and attract investors

• Clear separation of company and ownership

• Subject to double taxation (corporate and dividend levels)

• Requires formal payroll and wage tax filings

Comparison Table:

Ⅲ. Registration Process (Using IngStart Platform)

Step 1: Log in or Create an Account
Visit the official IngStart website. The interface supports multiple languages, including English and Simplified/Traditional script options.
Sign-up is straightforward — typically completed in under 3 minutes.

Step 2: Choose “Register Now” → “U.S. Company”
The platform supports four major jurisdictions: U.S., Hong Kong, Singapore, and the U.K.
For other regions, consult support directly — the platform provides real-time, professional service in English.

Step 3: Select Your Company Type
Refer back to the earlier section on LLC vs. C-Corp. Click “Learn More” if further clarification is needed.

Step 4: Fill in Basic Company Details

• Company Name:
  Have 3–5 options prepared, avoiding sensitive terms (e.g., “Bank”, “Insurance”).
  Example: for a women's fashion eCommerce business, you might use “LuxeBella LLC”.
  IngStart offers a free name-checking service.

• Registered Address:
  If you don't have a U.S. address, IngStart provides one for free during the first year.

Step 5: Shareholder and Director Information
At least one natural person over 18 years of age is required.
The same individual can act as both shareholder and director.

Important:
Information must be authentic and accurate, as it will affect tax ID issuance, banking, and platform verification.

• Registered Capital:
  There is no minimum legal requirement, but declaring a reasonable amount (e.g., USD 50,000–100,000) enhances credibility.

• Business Description:
  This brief summary helps with EIN, tax filings, and bank account applications.
  Example (for a fashion-focused eCommerce company):

“This company is engaged in online retail operations, specialising in women's fashion apparel, accessories, and related lifestyle products. Activities include product sourcing, digital marketing, logistics coordination, and customer support.”

Retain an English version of this description for future use.

• Consignee:
  Always use your real name and address — this person receives official documents and legal mail. Incorrect information may result in loss of legal documents or issues with bank/platform verification.

Step 6: Select a Service Plan

• Basic Plan: Includes company name check, state registration, registered agent, and address.

• Standard Plan: Adds EIN (Federal Tax ID) application.

EIN is mandatory — used for tax returns, Stripe/PayPal registration, and banking.
Standalone EIN applications cost USD 100–200 — so opt for the inclusive plan.

Step 7: Make Payment
IngStart accepts both credit card and Alipay — no need for a U.S. credit card or USD balance.

Once submitted, registration is typically completed within 3 business days.
You will receive your company certificate, Articles of Organisation, EIN, and address proof — enough to register with Stripe, PayPal, developer accounts, etc.

Ⅳ. SSN & ITIN: What Are They?

After setting up your company, you may hear about needing a “personal tax ID” — this refers to SSN or ITIN.

1. SSN (Social Security Number):
   The primary U.S. ID used for employment, taxation, and social security.
   Generally, only U.S. citizens or legal residents are eligible — making this option unavailable to most overseas business owners.

2. ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number):
   An alternative issued by the IRS to those not eligible for an SSN.
   Used for tax reporting, EIN application, Stripe/PayPal verification, and banking.
   If you do not have an SSN, you must apply for an ITIN to operate your U.S. company effectively.

Ⅴ. ITIN Application Process

The process is handled by the IRS and includes:

1. Complete Form W-7 (downloadable from the IRS website)

2. Submit Valid Identification, typically a passport (or two alternate documents such as a foreign driver’s license, birth certificate, or visa)

3. Attach Tax Documents, usually a first-time U.S. tax return (e.g., Form 1040)

4. Submit Application via mail, in person, or via a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA)

5. Processing Time: 6–12 weeks standard; expedited service available via professionals

Ⅵ. Should You DIY or Use a Service?

While it is technically possible to complete the ITIN process yourself, errors are common, especially in interpreting W-7 requirements.

A professional service:

• Provides templates and pre-filled forms

• Offers secure passport copy handling

• Reduces rejection risk

• Supports fast-track processing (as fast as 4–8 weeks)

Recommendation:
If efficiency and success are priorities, opt for a professional service.

Ⅶ. How to Apply ITIN with IngStart

• Log in to your IngStart account

• Navigate to “SSN/ITIN Application” in the main menu

• Select “Apply ITIN” and complete the required information

A dedicated English-speaking representative will be assigned to assist with your application and support you throughout the process.

Ⅷ. Final Notes

ITIN is essential for:

• Corporate tax reporting

• Dividends

• U.S. bank account opening

• Platform verification (Stripe, PayPal, etc.)

If you're already registering your U.S. company, it's efficient to apply for ITIN simultaneously.
With IngStart, the entire process — from company formation to tax ID — can be managed in one place.

Here are the key details for your reference. Should you have any further questions, feel free to reach out anytime!

IngStart offers global company registration and international bank account opening services, empowering Chinese sellers to expand overseas. We help the world discover Chinese brands while providing you with top-tier professional support.