Compare before you form: the decisions that shape your LLC
Before you register anything there are four questions that decide how much you pay, how much privacy you get and how much paperwork you carry every year: which state, with what structure, whether it beats your current setup, and whether it's worth moving an LLC you already have. Here we compare them with real figures for a non-resident running a single-member LLC.
| New Mexico | Wyoming | Delaware | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual report | Not required | Yes (asset-based fee, min. ~$60/yr) | Not required |
| Recurring state fee | Registered Agent only | ~$60+/yr | Franchise tax min. $300/yr |
| Members public | No (high privacy) | No | No (only the RA on record) |
| Typical fit | Privacy + low cost | Assets / holding | If you're raising investment |
Four comparisons, one informed choice
There's no "best" state or "correct" structure in the abstract: it depends on your business, where you're tax-resident and how much you value privacy over cost. Each comparison below breaks down the real case with three-year numbers, not slogans. Start with whichever one is pressing hardest.
They all start from the same profile: a single-member LLC owned by a non-resident who bills services or digital products. The figures are from 2026 and focus on the total cost of owning the entity, not just formation. Multi-member structures, a C-Corp with employees, or cases with US substance change the math and are covered in their own guides.
Common doubts before you decide
What's the best state for a non-resident LLC?
There's no universal answer. New Mexico stands out for privacy and because it has no annual report; Wyoming does have one with a low fee; Delaware adds a minimum franchise tax and is common when you're seeking investment. The full comparison breaks down the three-year cost of each.
Should I choose an LLC or a C-Corp?
For most non-residents billing services, the LLC avoids double taxation and carries less compliance —and it's the entity we form at Devil Club. A C-Corp only fits if you're going to raise capital from US investors or issue shares, and it brings its own obligations (21% corporate tax, its own filings and withholding on dividends); it is not an entity we set up. The "LLC vs C-Corp" piece compares the two with numbers so you can confirm the LLC is right for you.
Can I move my LLC to another state without losing the EIN?
There is no painless transfer. In practice, moving states means dissolving the old LLC and opening a new one —which means a new EIN and rebuilding your banking history from scratch. The guide explains when that fresh start is worth it.
Tell us your situation and we'll tell you which state and structure fit —without selling you smoke or the priciest entity.
See how we workRelated posts in this guide
Wyoming, New Mexico or Delaware: which one
Wyoming, New Mexico, or Delaware for your LLC: we compare 3-year cost, privacy, and banking with 2026 figures, and which state fits your profile.
ComparativaLLC vs C-Corp: which one fits you
LLC or C-Corp for your US business: taxes, double taxation, investors and real cost. For the non-resident selling services, the LLC wins almost every time.
FiscalUS LLC vs European self-employment: costs
Taxes, social security, and admin overhead compared for digital operators and nomads.
OperativaMoving your LLC from Wyoming to New Mexico
Moving an LLC across states isn't relocating it: it's closing the old one and opening a new one, with a new EIN and bank. When leaving Wyoming for NM pays off.
BancaMercury rejected your LLC: 5 reasons
Five real reasons Mercury rejects non-resident LLC applications —address, activity, country, EIN, name— and how to fix each one before reapplying.
BancaWise vs Mercury vs Relay for a US LLC
Compare Wise, Mercury and Relay for US LLCs: eligibility, payments, cards, transfers, account risks and practical use cases for non-residents.
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Wise Business gives your LLC a multi-currency account with local USD, EUR and GBP details. It's not a bank (no FDIC): requirements, steps and when to use it.
BancaPayment processors: Stripe, PayPal and Wise
Stripe, PayPal and Wise for a non-resident LLC: which fits each profile, why they freeze your money, and five habits to get paid without holds.