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A US LLC for SaaS founders is a simple way to start selling software to US customers. If you plan to raise venture money, the choice between an LLC and a C-corp matters early.
It depends on your plan. A US LLC for SaaS founders is quick and cheap to run, which suits bootstrapped products and consulting-led software. Investors often prefer a Delaware C-corp. If venture funding is likely, speak to a startup lawyer before you form, because converting later takes work.
Verified figures only — sources are listed at the foot of this page.
$300 annual, due June 1
$60 minimum
Form 5472 generally required if reportable transactions
Non-residents can own an LLC
October 2026
An LLC is simple. It has flexible ownership, light paperwork and pass-through treatment by default. A C-corp is a separate taxpayer with stock, board formalities and a structure many investors know well.
If you are bootstrapping, selling subscriptions and keeping profit, an LLC is usually the lighter path. If you expect accelerator programs or venture rounds, a C-corp may be expected. Tax outcomes differ a lot for non-residents, so get advice from a qualified US tax adviser before you decide.
Delaware is the default for investor-backed companies, with a $400 annual LLC tax due June 1 and formation fees you should check on the Division of Corporations site. Wyoming is a cost-conscious pick with a $100 filing fee and a $60 minimum annual report.
If you are not planning outside investment, Wyoming or New Mexico can keep costs down. Our state pages compare fees and yearly duties.
Software companies usually need recurring billing. Stripe is the most common choice, but it does not support businesses based in Pakistan directly. Some founders apply through a US LLC with a US bank and address, and Stripe may still reject them.
Alternatives include Paddle-style merchants of record, Lemon Squeezy-style services and regional gateways. Each has its own eligibility, fees and tax handling, so read their current terms. A merchant of record can handle sales tax or VAT on your behalf, which can be useful for software sold globally.
Usually Articles of Organization, EIN letter, ID, a live website with pricing and terms, and a description of the product.
Some providers support multi-currency billing and payouts. Confirm what they allow for your business and country.
An operating agreement states who owns what, which matters when co-founders write code together. Add IP assignment so the company owns the product, and keep clear terms of service and a privacy policy on your site.
FenFile prepares your operating agreement, but we are not a law firm. A startup lawyer can draft IP assignments, contractor agreements and investor documents.
Besides state reports, a foreign-owned single-member LLC generally files Form 5472 with a pro forma Form 1120 each year when reportable transactions exist. The penalty for missing it starts at $25,000. Check FinCEN for current beneficial ownership rules.
Our Growth plan includes a compliance calendar so these dates sit in one place. Pair it with a qualified tax adviser who understands software revenue.
Keep these ready and our team will guide you through the rest.
From first message to done — with updates at every stage.
Choose Wyoming, Delaware or another state and confirm your LLC name is available.
FenFile files your Articles, arranges your registered agent and prepares your operating agreement.
We support your SS-4 application so the IRS can issue your EIN.
Follow our guidance for bank, Wise, Payoneer or Stripe applications, which those providers approve themselves.
Pick a plan, pay once, and let our team handle the rest.
Solo founders launching their first US company
one-time + state filing fee
Founders who need to get paid and bank in the US
one-time + state filing fee
Full launch with brand, website and support
one-time + state filing fee
Talk to a FenFile advisor — we’ll point you to the right one.
Can’t find your answer? Our team replies on WhatsApp and email.
Yes. Non-residents may own a US LLC without a US visa or SSN. You need a registered agent in the state. Your home country may have rules on foreign companies, so confirm with a local adviser.
Some do, but many prefer a Delaware C-corp because of stock and tax structure. If funding is likely, ask a startup lawyer before forming. FenFile can explain options, but we do not give legal advice.
Often yes, but it has legal and tax consequences that vary. Plan it with a qualified adviser. It is easier if your records and operating agreement are clean from the start.
Stripe is common but may not be available in your country. Merchant-of-record services and regional gateways are alternatives. Each decides approvals itself, so check current requirements.
An LLC owning the IP is a good start, but protection comes from assignments, contracts and, for brands, trademarks. Speak to a qualified attorney. We offer a trademark search add-on, not legal filing.
Starter covers formation, registered agent, operating agreement and EIN support. Growth adds bank and payment setup guidance and a compliance calendar. Complete adds brand identity and a business website.
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Written by the FenFile team · Last reviewed October 2026. General information, not legal or tax advice.
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