The Journal
Notes for global founders
What our team has learned forming and running US companies, written for the founders doing it from anywhere.
In the Journal
Formation
Choosing an entity, picking a state, and getting your US company off the ground, the right way.
See all 36 articles
Formation
Is a Series LLC Worth It for Multiple Rental Properties?
Inside one series-friendly state, yes. Across state lines the internal liability walls may not be recognized, and that is where the structure quietly fails.
Formation
How Private Is a US LLC, and Who Can See Who Owns It in 2026?
A US-formed LLC is now permanently exempt from FinCEN reporting. State privacy is the real variable, and the annual filing decides it, not the state.
Formation
Why Do the World's Established Families Still Choose a US Company?
Not for tax. Established families choose a US entity for predictable law, durable contracts, and capital access that survives a change of government.
Formation
What Is a Holding Company, and Do You Need One?
A holding company owns your operating business instead of running it. Here is what that separation actually protects, and when it is worth the extra structure.
Formation
Does a Single-Member LLC Really Need an Operating Agreement?
Most states do not require one, but a single-member LLC should still have an operating agreement: banks ask for it, and it reinforces your liability shield.
Formation
Delaware vs Wyoming for an LLC: Which One Is Actually Right for Me?
Wyoming costs less to maintain ($60 minimum annual report vs Delaware's flat $300 franchise tax); Delaware wins on investor recognition and its Court of Chancery.
Formation
Open a US LLC Without Visiting the US?
Yes. A non-resident can form a US LLC entirely remotely, with no visit, no US address of your own, and no US partner. A registered agent supplies the state address.
Formation
Best State for a Non-Resident's US LLC?
Delaware and Wyoming work for non-residents with no US activity, but your bank, tax treaty, and real business location matter more than reputation.
Formation
Can AI Set Up Your US Company?
AI can file the paperwork to form your US company. What it misses, the Form 5472 penalty, the wrong state, why your bank says no, is what actually costs you.
Formation
LLC vs Corporation for a Non-US Resident
A non-resident usually forms an LLC for simplicity and pass-through profits, and a Corporation when raising investment or issuing equity. The right choice depends on your goals and your home country's treaty.
In the Journal
Taxes
Income tax, sales tax, deductions, and staying right with the IRS, explained in plain language.
See all 171 articles
Taxes
What Is Actually Due on October 15 If You Filed an Extension?
An extension moved your filing date to October 15. It never moved your payment date. Anything owed was due in April and has been accruing since.
Taxes
The $60,000 Question: US Estate Tax for Wealthy Non-Residents
A non-resident's US estate must file above $60,000 of US-situated assets. Stock in a US corporation counts toward it. A US bank deposit usually does not.
Taxes
What Are FATCA and CRS, and Will the US Report My Account Back Home?
Not through CRS. The US never signed it, while all 126 signatories including Mexico, Colombia and Spain did. It exchanges under FATCA instead, on its own terms.
Taxes
How Do You Know If Your Accountant Actually Filed Your Taxes?
You don't have to take anyone's word for it. The IRS keeps its own record, and Form 4506-T pulls the transcripts that show exactly what was received.
Taxes
How Do You Appeal an IRS Penalty Before You Pay It?
Yes, you can appeal. The IRS gives you 30 days from the notice date to protest with the Independent Office of Appeals before it becomes fixed debt.
Taxes
EIN, ITIN, or SSN: Which One Do I Need for My US Business?
Your company needs an EIN. You personally need an ITIN only if you must file a US return. An SSN requires work authorization most non-residents do not have.
Taxes
Do I Have to File an FBAR for My US Company's Foreign Accounts?
If your US company can control foreign accounts holding over $10,000 combined at any point in the year, it files an FBAR. The deadline is October 15.
Taxes
Does a Foreign Owner of a US LLC Actually Pay US Taxes?
Not automatically. US tax only applies to income effectively connected to a US business. Here is what actually determines whether a foreign owner owes anything.
Taxes
Do Non-Resident Owners of a US LLC Have to Make Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments?
Yes, if your LLC has effectively connected income and you expect to owe $1,000 or more. Non-resident filers pay in 3 installments, not 4, starting June 15.
Taxes
My US LLC Has More Than One Owner. What Do We File by September 15?
A US LLC with two or more owners files Form 1065 by Sept 15 if extended, plus a Schedule K-1 per owner. Late filing runs about $245 per owner, per month.
In the Journal
Banking
Opening US accounts, getting paid, and moving money across borders without the friction.
See all 39 articles
Banking
Can a Foreign National Finance US Property Through an LLC?
Yes, through foreign national mortgage programmes. Expect larger deposits, no US credit requirement, and an LLC that helps on title but not on approval.
Banking
How Does a Crypto or Web3 Company Open a US Bank Account in 2026?
By settling one question first: are you a money transmitter. Accepting crypto for your own products generally is not. Transmitting value for others is.
Banking
What's the Best State to Form an LLC for Stripe and US Banking?
For Stripe and US banking, the state barely moves the needle. What actually decides approval is documentation consistency, a real EIN, and clean risk signals.
Banking
Can You Open a US Business Bank Account Without an SSN or ITIN?
Yes. A non-resident opens a US business bank account with the company's EIN, formation documents, and a passport. No SSN or ITIN needed for a business account.
Banking
How Do Non-Resident Owners Pay Themselves and Move Money Out of a US LLC?
A non-resident owner takes an owner's draw, a wire from the LLC's US bank account to a personal one, not a salary. Multi-member LLCs face 1446 withholding instead.
Banking
How Do You Get a Stripe Account for a US LLC Owned From Abroad?
A non-resident gets a Stripe account with a US LLC, an EIN, a US business address, and a US bank account for payouts. Living abroad does not block approval.
Banking
Why Do Banks Reject Non-Residents?
Non-resident LLC owners get rejected for missing an SSN/ITIN check, a US address the bank can verify, or a country-risk flag. Complete the file first.
Banking
Opening a US Bank Account as a Non-Resident
A non-resident can open a US business bank account without visiting the US. You need a registered company, an EIN, your formation documents, a passport, and a US business address.
Banking
Pay Your Income Tax in Installments: Find Out How
Struggling with income tax payments? Learn how you can easily pay your income tax in installments to manage your finances better and reduce stress.
Banking
Mercury Bank 2026: Business Banking Online para Startups, LLC y Emprendedores Globales
Mercury Bank is an online business banking fintech for startups, LLCs, and small businesses that offers business accounts with no physical branches, no monthly fees, high FDIC coverage, debit and credit cards, and 100% online account opening in minutes for more than 200,000 companies.
In the Journal
Commerce
Selling on Amazon, e-commerce, exporting, and growing a brand across markets.
See all 60 articles
Commerce
What Does FDA Labeling Actually Require for Food and Supplements?
21 CFR Part 101 requires identity, net quantity, a Nutrition Facts panel, ingredients, the 9 major allergens, and English content, or your shipment is refused.
Commerce
Can a Foreigner Buy US Real Estate Through an LLC, One Per Property?
Yes. There is no citizenship requirement to own US property, and holding each property in its own LLC is common practice for containing liability.
Commerce
California Franchise Tax Board: Your Guide to Franchise Tax
Navigate California's Franchise Tax Board with ease. Learn essential insights into franchise tax obligations and maximize your compliance for business success.
Commerce
Understanding the Franchise Tax Board: Key Insights and Tips
Uncover essential insights and tips about the Franchise Tax Board. Learn how to navigate tax obligations and maximize your benefits efficiently today!
Commerce
Simplify Your Taxes with the California Franchise Tax Board
Simplify your taxes with the California Franchise Tax Board. Get essential guidance and resources to navigate franchise tax challenges in California
Commerce
How Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, and Spain Are Conquering the U.S. Market
In 2025, Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, and Spain continue strengthening their exports to the United States. We explore each country's key products, trade strategies, and opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to enter the U.S. market. From Mexico's automotive sector to Ecuador's mango exports, we highlight how these countries are consolidating their presence in international trade.
Commerce
How to Charge Sales Tax on Shopify
This article explores how sales tax applies on Shopify, highlighting the implications for sellers and how to set it up correctly.
Commerce
How to Open an Amazon Seller Account and Start Selling Online
Opening an Amazon Seller account is the first step to becoming a successful seller on one of the largest platforms in the world. This guide explains the step-by-step process, the requirements you need to meet, and how to implement strategies like dropshipping to maximize your sales.
Commerce
Franchises in the USA: The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Foreign Investors and Entrepreneurs in Florida
Learn about the best U.S. franchises, profitable Florida opportunities, and how foreigners can invest successfully. Prodezk offers personalized guidance.
Commerce
Best International Payment Gateways for Your Online Business
Choosing the right payment gateway is essential for any online business looking to operate globally. This blog analyzes the seven most popular platforms like Stripe, Payoneer, and Shopify Payments, highlighting their benefits and features. Additionally, learn how we can help you open Stripe accounts, register your business in the U.S., and manage your business accounting.
In the Journal
Compliance
Annual reports, BOI, good standing, and the filings that keep a company alive year after year.
See all 28 articles
Compliance
Do I Have to File a BOI Report With FinCEN in 2026?
No, if your LLC was formed in the US. A FinCEN final rule effective August 14, 2026 permanently exempts domestic companies from BOI reporting.
Compliance
Dissolve LLC Process: What You Need to Know
Learn how to navigate the LLC dissolution process effectively. This professional guide offers essential steps to dissolve your LLC smoothly and efficiently.
Compliance
How to Easily Dissolve Your LLC Today
Gain expert insights on efficiently dissolving your LLC today. Understand the necessary steps and simplify the process for a smoother transition.
Compliance
Dissolve LLC in Texas: Key Steps and Requirements
To dissolve an LLC in Texas efficiently, follow essential steps and ensure compliance. Learn the professional way to close your business seamlessly.
Compliance
How to Notify Creditors When Dissolving Your LLC
When dissolving an LLC, notifying creditors effectively is crucial. This guide offers essential steps to ensure a smooth process, protecting personal assets.
Compliance
Dissolve My LLC: Step-by-Step Guide for Your State
Easily dissolve your LLC with this detailed step-by-step guide. Understand the legal process and requirements specific to your state for a smooth transition.
Compliance
How to Successfully Dissolve Your LLC Accounts
Learn the essential steps to effectively dissolve LLC accounts. This professional guide provides clear insights, ensuring a smooth transition for your business.
Compliance
Cost to Dissolve LLC: What You Need to Know
Navigating the costs of dissolving an LLC can be complex. This guide outlines essential expenses and steps involved to ensure a smooth and effective process.
Compliance
Reinstate My Dissolved LLC: Key Steps Explained
Reinstating a dissolved LLC can be straightforward. This comprehensive guide provides essential steps to navigate the process efficiently and confidently.
Compliance
Uncovering Hidden Fees: What You Need to Know Before Dissolving Your LLC
Avoid unexpected costs when dissolving your LLC. This essential guide outlines key steps to an efficient process, ensuring financial clarity and compliance.
In the Journal
Business
Strategy, stories, and the practical side of building a company across borders.
See all 65 articles
Business
What Does an E-2 or L-1 Business Plan Actually Need to Prove?
USCIS and consular officers read your plan as an auditor, not an investor. Generic projections that don't match your real numbers are the top cause of RFEs.
Business
Get Your Annual Credit Report for Financial Peace of Mind
Gain financial peace of mind by accessing your annual credit report. Understand your credit health and make informed decisions for a secure future.
Business
Hiring Staff in LATAM: The Secret to Finding Top Talent in the USA
Cut costs and access top bilingual talent with hiring staff in LATAM. Want faster recruitment and retention? Discover how US companies benefit.
Business
DUNS Number: What It Is and How It Benefits Your Business in the U.S.
Learn what a company’s DUNS number is, how to use it to secure contracts and financing, and how Prodezk makes the application process simple. Get expert help today!
Business
Is a Taxpayer Identification Number the same as an SSN?
Understand clearly if a Taxpayer Identification Number is the same as an SSN, and discover which TIN you need with expert guidance from Prodezk. Contact us!
Business
What Is an International Digital Wallet?
Discover the best international digital wallet for Latin businesses, optimize global transactions and avoid high fees with Prodezk today.
Business
Complete Guide to Raising Capital for Your Startup
In this article, we explore the various strategies and funding sources available for entrepreneurs looking to scale their startups. From understanding the different funding stages to identifying the right sources, this guide will help you navigate the process of raising capital.
Business
Global Company: 5 Key Steps to Successfully Expand into the U.S. in 2025
Learn what a global company is, its key advantages, and how Prodezk helps you expand legally and effectively in the U.S. Schedule your free consultation now!
Business
5 Key Sectors to Invest in Colombia 2025 | High Profitability
Discover the top high-growth sectors to invest in Colombia in 2025. Looking for real and safe investment opportunities? This guide is for you.
Business
Commercial Certification in the U.S.: Practical Guide and Reference Template
Discover what a commercial certification is, how to draft it properly, and view a practical model. Need legal help in the U.S.? Prodezk can assist you.