Registering a US company in 2025 is undoubtedly one of the top choices for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to expand overseas. The US market, with its massive consumer base, mature capital markets, flexible tax system, relatively simple company registration process, low maintenance costs, strong intellectual property protection, and transparent legal framework, continues to attract global attention.

Whether you aim to enter the North American market, build an international brand image, or seek better financing opportunities and tax structures, US company formation offers significant strategic advantages. However, each state has different rules and requirements, and many entrepreneurs struggle with preparing the right documents. Don’t worry! This 2025 updated checklist of required documents for US company registration will walk you through the core paperwork needed for LLCs, C Corporations, and S Corporations, helping you register efficiently while avoiding delays or mistakes.

Preparations Before Registering a US Company

When you plan to register a US company, the first step is to select the right state and entity type. Different states have different filing fees, annual costs, and tax rates. Here are some of the most popular states in 2025:

Wyoming: Low registration cost, strong privacy protection, no state corporate income tax.
New Mexico: High privacy (no public disclosure of member info), low maintenance fees.
Kentucky: Low registration fee, ideal for small businesses and startups.
Missouri: Stable business environment, suitable for long-term operation and local expansion.
Montana: No sales tax, low maintenance costs, great for businesses seeking tax savings and shareholder privacy.

Common Types of US Companies
1. LLC (Limited Liability Company Registration)

An LLC combines features of corporations and partnerships. Members may be individuals, companies, or even other LLCs, and they enjoy limited liability protection.

Flexible management: Member-managed or Manager-managed.
Pass-through taxation available (profits and losses pass directly to members, avoiding double taxation).
Operating and governance structure can be tailored.

2. C Corporation (C-Corp Formation)

A standard corporation where shareholders own the company through stock purchases. The corporation is a separate legal entity with its own tax obligations.
Ideal for raising large amounts of capital, issuing stock, or going public.
Strong financing ability: multiple classes of shares allowed.
Flexible share transfers: buy, sell, or list shares on the stock market.
Profits can be retained in the company for reinvestment.

3. S Corporation (S-Corp Registration)

An S-Corp is not a separate entity type but a tax status elected with the IRS (via Form 2553).

Limited liability protection for shareholders.
Pass-through taxation to avoid double taxation.
Restricted to ≤100 shareholders, all must be US citizens or residents.
Suitable for small, family-owned businesses.

Required Documents for US Company Registration
1. LLC Formation Documents

Articles of Organization: Includes company name, registered agent info, business address, duration, business purpose, management structure, and organizer details.
Operating Agreement: Covers company structure, member contributions, profit distribution, decision-making rules, member exits, meeting procedures, dissolution terms, etc.

2. C-Corp Formation Documents

Articles of Incorporation: Company name, purpose, authorized shares, registered agent, office address, initial directors, incorporator signature.

Corporate Bylaws: Internal governance rules covering board structure, shareholder rights, officer roles, stock issuance, financial reporting, and seal usage.

Shareholder Agreement: Defines shareholder rights, transfer restrictions, voting agreements, dispute resolution, and merger clauses.

Minutes of Initial Board Meeting: Adoption of bylaws, appointment of officers, stock issuance, fiscal year approval, and bank account authorization.

3. S-Corp Additional Filing

IRS Form 2553 (Election by a Small Business Corporation): Requires shareholder consent, tax year election, and proof of shareholder eligibility (US citizens or residents only, max 100 shareholders).

Post-Registration Compliance Documents

Completing state registration is just the first step. To legally operate your US company, you’ll also need:
EIN (Employer Identification Number): Required for tax filing, opening a business bank account, hiring employees. Apply online at the IRS for free.
State Tax Registration: Sales tax permit, employer tax account, and other state-level requirements.

Business Licenses & Permits: Depending on your location, county, and industry.

Bank Account Opening Documents: Articles of Organization/Incorporation, EIN confirmation letter, bylaws or operating agreement, resolutions, and ID of the account holder.

Why Professional Help Matters

Feeling overwhelmed by the paperwork? That’s normal. Although US company registration is relatively straightforward,the details vary by state and entity type. Choosing the wrong state or company type can lead to delays, extra costs, or compliance risks.

At Shenzhen Guansai Technology Co., Ltd., we specialize in helping global entrepreneurs register a US company with a smooth, transparent, and fully compliant process. Our team of professional CPAs with US –China business expertise provides:

Business type consultation;State selection guidance;Document preparation & filing、Registered agent services、EIN application assistance、Ongoing annual compliance support。We offer bilingual service (Chinese & English), ensuring you understand every step while expanding your business into the US market with confidence.