Alvin Online Blog
Discover tips, guides, and insights on US LLC formation, Amazon FBA growth, business banking, virtual business addresses, and online entrepreneurship.
🚀 Step-by-Step Guide to Start Your US Business
Starting a business in the USA requires following a clear sequence of steps. To ensure your company is legally compliant and operational, follow this order:
1️⃣ Virtual Business Address
Get a reliable virtual address in the USA first. Your LLC registration will not be approved without it. This address receives official documents, bank statements, and government correspondence.
2️⃣ Form Your LLC
After securing your address, register your Limited Liability Company (LLC). The LLC legally separates your personal and business assets and provides credibility.
3️⃣ Obtain EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Required to open a US business bank account and handle taxes.
4️⃣ Open a US Business Bank Account
With your LLC and EIN ready, open a business bank account. This allows you to separate finances, receive payments, and manage operations professionally.
Step 1: Get Your US Virtual Address
A US Virtual Address is essential for anyone planning to register an LLC in the United States. It provides a professional business address, allows you to receive official mail, and is often required by LLC formation services. By securing your virtual address first, you can complete LLC registration without delays.
There are dedicated virtual address providers such as PhysicalAddress.com, PostScan Mail, iPostal1, and Anytime Mailbox, which offer affordable and flexible options for startups, freelancers, and e-commerce businesses. Unlike some LLC services like ZenBusiness, which include a free virtual address for the first month but then charge $29/month, these standalone providers are often cheaper and more customizable.
Once you have your virtual address ready, you can proceed confidently to register your LLC, obtain an EIN, and set up your US business bank account.
Learn More About US Virtual AddressStep 2: Form Your US LLC
Once you have secured your virtual address, the next crucial step is to register your **Limited Liability Company (LLC)**. Forming an LLC grants your business legal status in the US, separates your personal assets, and enables you to move forward with banking, taxes, and affiliate partnerships.
Key Steps to Form an LLC:
- Choose your state: Popular ones include Delaware, Wyoming, or the state where your virtual address is located.
- Pick a company name: The name must be unique in that state and usually end with “LLC”.
- Registered agent: A person or service with a physical address in that state to receive legal documents.
- File Articles of Organization: Submit the official formation documents to the Secretary of State.
- Operating Agreement: Draft an agreement among members outlining structure, ownership, and operations.
- Obtain EIN: This step (Step 3) can be done once your LLC is registered.
Some LLC service providers (like ZenBusiness or Incfile) include virtual address or registered agent services bundled. They may offer **first-month address/agent service free**, but then charge a monthly fee (e.g. $29/month). Be cautious: if you’re only seeking cost-efficiency, standalone virtual address services might be cheaper in the long run.
Once your LLC is formed, you’ll be eligible to request your EIN and open a US business bank account – the next steps in your path to becoming a fully functional US business entity.
Learn More About LLC FormationStep 3: Apply for Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Once your LLC is formed, the next essential step is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This number acts like a business “Social Security Number” and is required for opening a business bank account, filing taxes, and working with U.S. payment processors such as PayPal, Stripe, or Shopify.
🌍 What Is an EIN and Why Do You Need It?
The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique 9-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It’s used to identify your business for federal tax purposes — whether you operate in the U.S. or internationally. Even if you’re a non-U.S. resident, you must have an EIN to open a U.S. business bank account or get approved for affiliate programs and online payment gateways.
🧩 Benefits of Having an EIN
- ✅ Open a U.S. business bank account with services like Mercury or Relay
- ✅ Register for payment platforms like PayPal Business, Stripe, or Shopify Payments
- ✅ Build business credibility and separate your personal and business identity
- ✅ File U.S. taxes correctly and stay compliant with the IRS
- ✅ Required for Amazon, Fiverr, and other affiliate approval processes
📝 How to Apply for an EIN as a Non-U.S. Resident
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Option 1 – Apply Directly via IRS (Free):
You can fax or mail Form SS-4 to the IRS. Fill it carefully with your LLC name, U.S. address, and responsible person details. The IRS usually responds within 2–3 weeks with your EIN confirmation letter. -
Option 2 – Use a Service Provider:
If you prefer a faster and simpler process, companies like ZenBusiness or Bizee (Incfile) can obtain your EIN for a small fee, often around $70–$100. This is helpful for users who don’t want to deal with IRS paperwork directly. - Tip: Always make sure your EIN letter (CP 575) is safely stored — you’ll need it for banking and tax filings.
💡 Pro Tips for International Founders
• You don’t need a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) to apply — simply write “Foreign” in the SSN field on Form SS-4.
• Use your LLC’s virtual U.S. address (for example, from PhysicalAddress.com) for IRS correspondence.
• Avoid free “EIN generator” websites — only the official IRS or trusted LLC services can issue valid EINs.
• You can call the IRS directly at +1 267-941-1099 to check your EIN application status.
Step 4: Open a U.S. Business Bank Account
After forming your LLC and receiving your EIN, the next crucial step is opening a U.S. business bank account. A dedicated business account helps you separate personal and business finances, build credibility, and receive international payments professionally.
💼 Why You Need a Business Bank Account
Having a U.S. business bank account allows your company to operate legally and professionally. It’s a must-have if you plan to receive payments from affiliate programs, U.S. clients, or platforms like PayPal or Shopify. Banks require your LLC documents, EIN number, and virtual U.S. address to verify your business identity.
📋 Documents You’ll Need
- ✅ LLC formation documents (Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation)
- ✅ EIN confirmation letter (Form CP 575 or SS-4)
- ✅ Passport or government-issued ID (for identity verification)
- ✅ U.S. business address (virtual address is acceptable)
- ✅ Operating Agreement (some banks require this as proof of ownership)
🌍 Can Non-U.S. Residents Open a Business Bank Account?
Yes! Many U.S. online banks and fintech institutions now accept non-residents — especially those who have formed a U.S. LLC and obtained an EIN. These platforms typically verify your identity remotely and let you manage everything digitally, without needing to visit the U.S. in person.
💡 Tips Before You Apply
- ✔ Make sure your LLC name matches exactly on all documents (LLC, EIN, and address).
- ✔ Use your business email domain instead of Gmail or Yahoo — it looks more professional.
- ✔ Keep your EIN letter and LLC documents as PDF copies; most online banks request uploads.
- ✔ Choose a bank that supports international transfers and integrates with your payment gateways.
- ✔ Avoid using personal accounts for business — it can cause tax and compliance issues later.
🧭 How to Apply Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Prepare your LLC formation documents and EIN letter.
- Step 2: Use your virtual U.S. address and business email for registration.
- Step 3: Complete the online application form and verify your identity.
- Step 4: Upload all required documents and wait for approval (usually 1–3 business days).
- Step 5: Once approved, you can receive payments and start building your U.S. business profile.
📎 Learn how to open your business bank account step-by-step:
Open Bank Account Guide