How to Start an LLC in Wyoming

A practical, personal guide to America’s most entrepreneur-friendly state

When I first started helping European founders register U.S. companies, I kept noticing a pattern: the most successful ones — especially digital entrepreneurs, consultants, and e-commerce sellers — almost always ended up choosing Wyoming.

At first glance, this quiet, landlocked state might not seem like the obvious place to launch a business. There are no shiny skyscrapers or tech hubs like New York or San Francisco. Yet, when it comes to privacy, flexibility, and simplicity, Wyoming quietly outperforms almost every other U.S. jurisdiction. This isn’t just a list of steps; it’s a reflection of what I’ve seen work — for real founders, from Berlin to Belgrade, who wanted a U.S. company that was truly their own.

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Step 1. Choosing the Right Structure

Before we even talk paperwork, you’ll want to understand what kind of entity fits your goals.

For most international founders, the choice is clear:

• LLC (Limited Liability Company) – simple, flexible, and perfect for small to medium businesses. Profits pass through directly to you — no double taxation.

• Corporation (C-Corp) – more complex, ideal for startups planning to raise venture capital, but requires stricter compliance.

Most clients I work with pick the LLC because it’s the sweet spot: minimal bureaucracy, full legal protection, and ideal for freelancers or international service providers.

Pro tip: Before you file, check if your chosen name is available — and grab the matching domain name right away. It’s part of your brand story.

Step 2. Your Wyoming Registered Agent

Every LLC needs a registered agent — someone with a physical presence in Wyoming to receive official documents. Think of it as your company’s legal “anchor” inside the U.S.Even if you never set foot in America, this ensures your company remains compliant and reachable. We usually partner with trusted Wyoming agents who understand both U.S. law and international clients’ privacy needs.

Step 3. Filing the Articles of Organization

This is where your Wyoming LLC officially comes to life. You’ll file a short formation document (called the Articles of Organization) with the Secretary of State, listing your company name, address, and registered agent. It is a simple process — but an important one. Once accepted, you’ll receive your Certificate of Organization, and your company will legally exist in the U.S.

Step 4. Creating Your Operating Agreement

Even though Wyoming doesn’t legally require one, an Operating Agreement is your company’s rulebook. It defines who owns what, how decisions are made, and what happens if there’s a disagreement or profit distribution. I always say — “you don’t need it until you really need it.”When conflicts arise (and they sometimes do), this document protects everyone involved and shows U.S. banks and partners that you’re serious.

Step 5. Getting an EIN (Your U.S. Tax ID)

The EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is like your company’s passport. You’ll need it to open a bank account, file taxes, or hire people. The good news? It’s free from the IRS — though the process can be confusing for non-residents.That’s why most founders prefer to have their advisor handle it directly with the IRS on their behalf.

Step 6. The New BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) Report

Under the Corporate Transparency Act, all U.S. entities now need to disclose their real owners to FinCEN — a federal agency focused on preventing money laundering.

It’s a one-time filing, but it’s mandatory.The idea is to make company ownership transparent, while still keeping Wyoming’s strong privacy protection for legitimate entrepreneurs.

Step 7. Opening a U.S. Business Bank Account

This is where most foreign founders hit their first wall — banking. U.S. banks are strict, and opening an account remotely can be tricky.

But here’s what we’ve learned after setting up dozens of accounts:

• Traditional banks (like Chase or Wells Fargo) usually require a personal visit.

• Online banks and fintechs (like Mercury, Relay, or Wise Business) often work perfectly for international founders — with full online onboarding.

For example, Marko, a SaaS developer from Serbia, opened a Wyoming LLC in 2022. He used Mercury Bank for USD and EUR transactions and connected it directly to Stripe. His total setup time? Just under two weeks — fully remote.

Step 8. Fund Your LLC

Before you start trading, you’ll fund your company — essentially contributing your initial capital. Even a symbolic $100 deposit works, but it’s an important legal step showing that your company is real and separate from you personally.That separation is what protects your personal assets if something ever goes wrong.

Step 9. Staying Compliant: Annual Reports

Wyoming makes compliance refreshingly easy. Each year, you file a short Annual Report (and pay a small renewal fee — typically $60–$100) to confirm that your company is still active.

Keep your registered agent renewed, file on time, and your company will stay in good standing for decades. Neglect it, and you risk fines or dissolution.

How Much Does a Wyoming LLC Cost?

Compared to Delaware, Nevada, or Florida, Wyoming is remarkably affordable.

Fee Type	Cost	What’s Included
Initial Setup	from $2,500	Company formation, documents, state fee, first year of registered agent, EIN, digital certificate
Annual Renewal	from $1,850	Agent renewal, state filing, compliance support, ongoing reminders

For founders outside the U.S., these packages are a one-stop solution — covering everything from tax registration to compliance reminders.

After Formation: What’s Next?

Your LLC is live — now it’s time to make it real.

What's next?

• Apply for any professional licenses your business might need.

• Set up your website and brand assets.

• Keep accounting clean and separate from personal finances.

• Prepare for taxes early — not just in April.

At Northbridge, we’ve seen many founders skip these small steps, only to struggle later with bank compliance or tax filings. Do it right from the start, and you’ll never have to look over your shoulder.

Final Thoughts

Starting an LLC in Wyoming isn’t just about forms — it’s about building freedom and structure at the same time. You get the protection of U.S. law, the privacy of a business-friendly state, and the flexibility to run your company from anywhere in the world. If you’re serious about expanding your business footprint into the U.S., Wyoming deserves to be at the top of your list.

👉 Book a strategy call with Northbridge today — and we’ll help you structure it from idea to bank account, fully remote, fully compliant.

Book your strategy call now