Forming a company is not one decision. A US LLC, a UK limited company and an Estonian or EU entity have different costs, documents and ongoing duties. The Shortet company formation collection lists services for these routes; this guide helps you choose and prepare before paying.
Affiliate disclosure: Some links below are affiliate links. Shortet may receive a commission if you use them. This is a planning guide, not legal or tax advice, and not a hands-on review of each service. The five example destinations below were opened on 16 October 2026; prices, packages and eligibility can change, so confirm current terms directly.
Decide what you actually need
- A US LLC as a non-resident: compare state fees, registered agent, EIN help and whether banking support is included.
- A UK limited company: formation is fast and cheap; compare the registered office, confirmation statement and filing support.
- An EU presence: some providers offer Estonian or other EU entities with remote management; compare substance and reporting duties.
- Only a US tax ID: if you need an ITIN rather than a company, use a specialist service instead of a full formation package.
US formation and compliance: Doola
Doola presents LLC formation, bookkeeping, US banking and business taxes in one place. When we opened it, the homepage described formation filing, LLC registration and EIN processing as part of its process. Treat those as the provider's own description. Compare the total first-year cost, the renewal price of the registered agent and compliance plan, and what happens if you later close the company.
US incorporation platform: Firstbase
Firstbase describes incorporation, compliance, bookkeeping and tax services. Check which states it supports, whether the price includes state fees, and how it handles mail, documents and annual reports. Ask what is included before comparing headline prices between providers.
UK limited companies: 1stFormations
1stFormations advertises UK company registration packages. Compare what each package includes beyond the filing itself: registered office address, confirmation statement service and support for non-UK residents. A low entry price can exclude services you will need in year one.
European entities and virtual office: 1Office
1Office describes company registration, accounting and virtual office services across several European countries. If you want an EU entity, compare the country-specific requirements, monthly accounting costs and how management works remotely before choosing a package.
US tax ID only: The ITIN
The ITIN focuses on ITIN applications for people who need a US individual taxpayer number. This is a different task from forming a company. Confirm current IRS requirements, expected processing time and what documents the service prepares for you.
Questions to ask before you pay
- What is the full first-year cost, including state or government fees, and the renewal cost next year?
- Which documents will I receive, and who files annual reports or confirmation statements?
- Does the package include a registered address, and what does that address cost after year one?
- If I am a non-resident, what extra steps apply for banking, taxes and identity checks?
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-resident form a US LLC?
Yes, in many states non-residents can form an LLC, but banking, taxes and compliance add steps. Use the provider's current guidance and, for tax questions, a qualified advisor.
Is the cheapest formation package enough?
Usually not. Entry prices often exclude the registered address, government fees or annual filings. Compare the complete first-year cost, not the headline.
Do I need a company to sell online?
Not always. Many platforms accept individuals, but a company can help with banking, taxes and credibility. The right moment depends on your country and sales volume.
Is a formation service a law firm?
No. Formation services prepare filings. For legal or tax advice about your situation, consult a qualified professional in the relevant country.
Related guides: the Shortet collection guide, selling products online and domains and web hosting.
