Why the U.S., why Wyoming?
The concrete reasons entrepreneurs around the world form U.S. companies — and why Wyoming stands out for foreign founders.
Full access to global payment infrastructure
A U.S. company lets you apply to U.S. banks and payment providers in your company's name. Each provider reviews applications under its own criteria; having a U.S. company does not by itself mean an account will be opened.
Zero state income tax
Wyoming is one of the few states with no personal or corporate income tax. Foreign-owned LLCs outside the ETBUS scope also owe no U.S. federal income tax in most cases; only an annual information return is required.
Strong asset protection provisions
Wyoming invented the LLC (1977) and has some of the strongest charging order protections. As a general rule, company debts do not reach your personal assets and personal debts do not reach company assets; courts can make exceptions (for example, where company and personal funds are mixed).
Ownership privacy
Wyoming does not publish LLC owners' names in the public registry. Competitors and third parties cannot look up your ownership; the information is shared only with legal authorities.
Low, predictable annual costs
Annual report fees start at $62 — compare that with Delaware's $300 franchise tax or California's $800 minimum tax. Wyoming is one of the lowest-cost states in the U.S.
International credibility
A U.S. company appears on your invoices, contracts, and store profiles. Your standing with enterprise clients, marketplaces, and suppliers measurably improves.
Wyoming / Delaware / New Mexico comparison
| Wyoming 🏆 | Delaware | New Mexico | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formation fee | $102 | $110 | $50 |
| Mandatory annual payment | From $62 | $300 (franchise) | $0 — no report* |
| State income tax | None | None (out-of-state income) | Yes (partial) |
| Ownership privacy | Strong | Moderate | Strong |
| Asset protection | Very strong | Strong | Moderate |
* New Mexico does not require an annual report, but the registered agent requirement remains; Wyoming and Delaware carry more established reputations with banks and payment providers. Delaware is the standard for venture-backed C-Corps; for service and e-commerce LLCs, Wyoming stands out with its balance of cost and protection.