How to choose a US state for your company
Pick any of the 50 states or DC from the US State step. We show you the facts for each state; the choice is yours. Forming outside the state you operate from usually means registering there too.
On the US State step, choose the state where your company will be formed. We show you the facts; the choice is yours.
What you can choose
- All 50 states and Washington, DC.
- A short group at the top of the list, labelled Recommended, holds commonly chosen states: Delaware, Florida, Texas, California, New York, Wyoming, Nevada, New Mexico and DC. It is a shortcut, not advice about your situation.
- US territories, such as Puerto Rico, aren't available online. Select My state isn't listed, enter the state and your email, and select Let me know. We'll email you when you can form there with us.
Facts that help you decide
- Delaware is popular with startups that plan to raise investment.
- Wyoming and New Mexico are popular for small, remotely run companies.
- If you'll operate from a particular US state, forming there is often simplest.
- Forming in a different state from the one you operate from usually means registering in that state too, and paying its fees there. The app warns you when your two answers differ.
- Each state charges its own filing fee. You see it for your state at checkout, before you pay.
- Each state sets its own ongoing filings, such as an annual report. They show on your compliance calendar after your company is formed.
Before you decide
Look at where you'll operate, who you'll raise money from and which yearly filings you're comfortable with. Compass can explain the terms. For advice on your own situation, speak to a lawyer or CPA.