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Can I really start a legit U.S. LLC from UK without stepping foot in America and actually get a U.S. bank account too?
r/Entrepreneur
8/1/2025
Content Summary
The post discusses the feasibility of starting a legitimate U.S. LLC from the UK without physically visiting the U.S. and opening a U.S. bank account. Users share experiences, challenges, and solutions related to setting up an LLC, obtaining an EIN, managing employees, and dealing with U.S. tax compliance. Several SaaS tools are mentioned that assist in business registration, payroll, and banking. The discussion highlights the importance of legal structure, tax implications, and the need for expert advice when operating internationally.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream opinions suggest that it is possible to start a U.S. LLC from abroad, and several SaaS tools can facilitate the process. However, there are concerns about the complexity of U.S. tax compliance, especially for UK residents. Some users highlight the advantages of having a U.S. LLC for credibility and access to American platforms, while others caution against potential legal and financial pitfalls. There is debate over whether a U.S. LLC is more beneficial than other structures, such as a C-Corp, particularly for international entrepreneurs. Some users advocate for using third-party services to simplify the process, while others warn of the risks involved if not handled properly.
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rippling | https://www.rippling.com | HR & Payroll | Used for managing employees and benefits, noted as complicated but helpful for international hiring |
| Wise | https://wise.com | Financial Services | Used for opening a U.S. bank account and debit card |
| Stripe Atlas | - | Business Setup | Mentioned as an option for registering a business |
| Mercury | - | Banking | Mentioned as an alternative for U.S. bank accounts |
| Firstbase.io | https://www.firstbase.io | Business Registration | Recommended for non-U.S. founders to set up a U.S. company |
| Doola.com | https://www.doola.com | Business Registration | Recommended for setting up a U.S. LLC |
| Clerky.com | https://www.clerky.com | Business Registration | Recommended for non-residents to form a U.S. LLC |
| Startfleet.io | http://Startfleet.io | Business Registration | Specializes in helping non-residents register a U.S. LLC |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Difficulty in establishing a legitimate U.S. LLC from outside the U.S.
- Challenges in opening a U.S. bank account without a Social Security Number (SSN)
- Complexity of U.S. tax compliance and understanding how it interacts with UK tax laws
- High costs associated with employee benefits and health insurance in the U.S.
- Confusion around legal structures and their implications for international entrepreneurs
Problems to Solve:
- How to legally establish and maintain a U.S. LLC without physical presence in the U.S.
- How to open a U.S. business bank account without an SSN or physical address
- How to manage U.S. taxes and comply with both U.S. and foreign tax regulations
- How to efficiently hire and manage employees in the U.S. while maintaining cost-effectiveness
Potential Solutions:
- Using third-party services like Rippling, Doola, Clerky, or Firstbase to set up a U.S. LLC and manage payroll
- Utilizing financial platforms like Wise or Mercury for U.S. bank accounts
- Consulting with CPAs or legal advisors to navigate tax obligations
- Considering alternative business structures like C-Corps for better tax alignment between the U.S. and UK
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Offering solutions for international entrepreneurs to set up U.S. businesses and bank accounts
- Providing easy-to-use tools for payroll, compliance, and business registration
- Leveraging online platforms to reduce friction in forming and managing U.S. LLCs
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Targeting non-U.S. founders through social media and community forums like Reddit
- Highlighting ease of use and affordability of SaaS tools for international users
- Sharing success stories and testimonials from users who have successfully formed U.S. LLCs
Monetization & Product:
- Charging fees for business registration, EIN acquisition, and compliance support
- Offering tiered pricing models for different levels of service (e.g., DIY vs. full-service)
- Focusing on user experience and reducing complexity in international business setup
User Engagement:
- Building communities through online forums and social media groups
- Encouraging user feedback and continuous product improvement
- Providing educational content to help users understand U.S. business and tax requirements