Start with the state
Review the official formation fee and registered-agent requirements in the state guides. The lowest filing fee is not always the lowest ongoing cost, and forming in one state may not remove obligations in another where the business operates.
Then plan the EIN
The IRS says to form the legal entity before applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN). International applicants with a principal place of business outside the United States can use Form SS-4 by fax or mail or apply by phone. The IRS online route has separate eligibility conditions; do not assume it applies to you. Check the IRS instructions ↗
Budget beyond formation
Registered-agent service, recurring state filings, taxes and possible foreign-registration rules vary by state and business activity. Ask a qualified U.S. tax or legal professional about your situation, particularly if you live outside the U.S.
This is a starting map, not individualized legal, tax or immigration advice. We do not process LLC or EIN applications.