How To Register And Start A Company In The USA From Hungary? (2024) LLC & C-Corp

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Embarking on the process of registering and launching a company in the USA from Hungary may seem difficult and complex. We recognize the hurdles ahead and are here to support you every step of the way.

This guide is your trusted companion, carefully crafted for Hungarian entrepreneurs ready to explore the process of registering and launching a company in the USA from Hungary. Together, we’ll delve into the complexities of legal, financial, and operational aspects, laying the groundwork for your triumph.

Register and Start your business in the USA

Step 1: Choose between LLC and C-Corp

For individuals or enterprises from Hungary looking to register a company in the U.S., deciding between an LLC (Limited Liability Company) and a C-Corp (C-Corporation) is an important step. Each entity type brings unique characteristics, strengths, and limitations, suiting different business scenarios and goals.

Register LLC in the USA from Hungary:

1. Taxation: For foreign-owned LLCs in the U.S., pass-through taxation is usually not an option. A viable solution is to register the LLC for corporate taxation and then bill it (either personally, through your local business in Argentina, or via a lower tax jurisdiction) for management fees to negate profits and thus U.S. tax obligations.
2. Ownership: There are no ownership limitations in a U.S. LLC. Members can be non-U.S. citizens, non-resident aliens, or any company, domestic or international, making it an adaptable option for entrepreneurs.
3. Management: LLCs provide a flexible management framework, enabling owners from Hungary to define their roles and operations without rigid structures. Designed as a limited liability Sole Proprietorship or Partnership, an LLC’s management and ownership are streamlined, ensuring less complexity and direct control.
4. Compliance: Generally, LLCs face fewer compliance demands and formalities, reducing legal and accounting costs. This is especially advantageous for smaller businesses, where resources for extensive record-keeping and frequent reporting may be limited.

Register C-Corp in the USA from Hungary:

While LLCs present numerous advantages, certain conditions may make a C-Corp more suitable:

1. Raising Capital: Businesses focused on attracting venture capital or pursuing a public listing might find C-Corps to be more appealing. C-Corps can issue various types of stocks, which can attract investors interested in equity.
2. Desire for Structure: Enterprises desiring a more formal structure, complete with a board of directors and specific officer roles, might opt for a C-Corp. This can add legitimacy and establish a defined hierarchy in larger companies.
3. Employee Benefits: For companies planning extensive benefits for a large workforce, C-Corps are well-suited. They excel in handling diverse benefits, key for companies aiming to attract and retain top talent, such as:

– Stock Options: C-Corps enable employees to buy shares in the company at a set price, aligning them with the company’s progress.
– Tax Advantages: C-Corps can leverage tax benefits related to employee benefits, like deducting the cost of these benefits, providing financial benefits to both the company and its employees.

In conclusion, while LLCs are often the go-to for entrepreneurs from Hungary due to tax, ownership, and compliance advantages, C-Corps are instrumental for capital raising and structured growth. Deciding between an LLC and a C-Corp in the U.S. requires careful consideration.

Step 2: Pick a Name and a Corporate Ending

Considerations for Naming Your Business:

1. Choose a unique business name: The chosen name should be distinct and not in use in the registration state. The state’s Secretary of State website can be used to check name availability.
2. Check for name availability: Task your registered agent, who needs a physical address in the state of registration, with verifying the availability of your chosen name.
3. Consider the type of business entity: The type of your business entity, whether it’s a C-Corporation, LLC, or S-Corporation, will affect your company’s name. For instance, S-Corporations have specific ownership criteria that might not align with every business model.
4. Comply with state regulations: Every state has its own set of regulations for business names. Ensure compliance with these, including necessary reservations, filings, and any state-specific formalities.

Step 3: Select Your Registration State

The decision of where to register your business is pivotal, affecting your tax liabilities, legal obligations, and day-to-day operations. Among the leading choices is Delaware, known for its favorable business climate. Additionally, states such as Wyoming and Nevada are also popular due to their business-friendly environments and should be evaluated as potential options.
StateAdvantagesDisadvantages
DelawareFavorable Tax EnvironmentFranchise tax may lead to slightly higher costs for businesses
No state corporate income tax for out-of-state business
No State Sales Tax
Ease of Business Formation
Flexible Business Structures
WyomingNo corporate or personal income taxLess recognized compared to other states
Cheaper franchise taxes
NevadaNo state corporate income taxHigher annual reporting fees
Mandatory state tax return filing
Public listing of all officers and directors

Step 4: Choose A Registered Agent For Legal Compliance

Choosing a registered agent for your business in the USA is a decision of great significance. This agent will be tasked with receiving all legal and official communications for your company, so it’s vital to pick someone reliable.

Considerations for Selection:

1. Physical Address: Ensure the agent has a physical address (not a P.O. box) in your business’s state of registration.
2. Availability: They must be present to receive documents during normal working hours.
3. Compliance Expertise: Your agent should have a thorough understanding of the state-specific compliance requirements.
4. National Presence: If your business is or will be operating in multiple states, a registered agent with a national presence is advisable.
5. Reputation: Choose an agent with a solid reputation for providing dependable services.
6. Additional Services: Look for agents offering extra services such as business formation assistance and paperwork filing.
7. Fees: Pay attention to their fee model, ensuring it’s straightforward and devoid of hidden fees.

Step 5: Provide details for the Owner, Director, and Manager (Who May Be A Single Individual)

You must provide the following:

– A passport
– Address

Step 6: Get A US Office (Virtual Or ExecutiveCenter)

A virtual office is an efficient way to register your business with a distinguished address, avoiding the overheads linked with a physical office. Hungary business owners registering a company in the USA can greatly benefit from a virtual office. It ensures a professional business address and comes with an array of supplementary services.

Interested in Assistance for Your Serviced Office Setup?

In addition to our registered agent services, we specialize in offering serviced offices, designed to support businesses of all kinds.

Step 7: Get an EIN From the IRS

Acquiring a Federal Employer Identification Number is a vital step in establishing your business’s legitimacy in the United States. The IRS issues this nine-digit number for tax and various business purposes.

To apply for an EIN from outside the US for your company, consider these options:

1. Apply for an EIN: Following your company’s incorporation, you can apply for an EIN through the IRS. This nine-digit number is crucial for your business’s tax identification.
2. Use a Registered Agent: During your company’s registration, a registered agent can aid in the EIN application process. Registered agents are responsible for managing legal and official documentation and may assist with EIN applications.

Once you have your EIN, the subsequent step is to ensure your company is registered with FinCEN BOI, adhering to current legislation and guidelines.

Register the company and beneficial owners with FinCEN BOI

Compliance with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network’s (FinCEN) Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting rules is a critical step when registering a company in the USA. These regulations, integral to the Corporate Transparency Act, necessitate that reporting companies furnish specifics about their ultimate owners or controllers.

Essentials for FinCEN BOI Registration

Reporting Deadlines and Requirements

– Companies in operation or registered prior to January 1, 2024, must complete their inaugural BOI report by January 1, 2025.
– There’s a one-year filing window for existing companies, in contrast to the 90-day deadline for companies newly created or registered.
– The required information for each beneficial owner includes their name, date of birth, address, and passport number in the BOI report.

Reporting Process and Frequency

– Implementing systems for the efficient collection, submission, and security of BOI data is crucial for companies reporting to FinCEN.
– Unlike annual tasks, BOI reporting is a one-off process, with further submissions only required for updates or corrections.
– FinCEN initiated the acceptance of BOI reports starting January 1, 2024.

Compliance and Fraud Protection

– Maintain vigilance against potential fraudulent attempts. Be aware that FinCEN does not initiate contact without a reason, so ignore unsolicited requests and do not click on links in those messages.

Step 8: Open a US Bank Account Remotely

Having successfully registered your company, the crucial next step is to proceed with opening a bank account in the US.

Documents needed for opening a US bank account:

Required documentsDescription
Director’s IdentificationValid photo ID, such as a passport and driver’s license, or tax card with a photo.
Director’s Address ProofProof of the director’s residential address, e.g., utility bills or bank statements.
Incorporation/Organization PapersArticles detailing the company’s structure, management, and membership.
EIN ConfirmationVerification letter issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for taxation purposes.
Business Location VerificationEvidence confirming that the business address is located in the United States.
Company DocumentsMay include the company’s certificate of incorporation, articles of organization, or other relevant documents.
We have partnerships with four major US banks, streamlining the process of opening an account to under 5 days, which is notably quicker than the average period. Learn more on this service by visiting our page, or schedule a free consultation with us for further assistance.

Step 9: Open A Merchant Account To Accept Credit Cards

For companies from Hungary embarking on registration in the USA, setting up a merchant account is an essential step. This business account is central to managing credit card payments, allowing for the efficient processing and acceptance of such transactions.

Requirements for opening a Merchant Account:

– Completing an application form with detailed business information, including but not limited to your business license, proof of a business bank account, and an EIN.
– History of both business and personal credit.
– Your business’s Certificate of Incorporation.
– The Articles or Memorandum of Association for your business.
– Details from the Shareholder registry.

In addition, personal information about the business owner may be needed:

– Your name in full.
– Your address of residence.
– Your ITIN (though this is optional).

This step is crucial as part of the credit check conducted by the merchant account provider, which is standard in the underwriting process, although not all providers continue to require this.

Step 10: Transfer Profits Home Or To A Lower Tax Jurisdiction

When establishing a business in the US from Hungary, it’s vital to grasp regulations about bringing profits back and transferring them to places with lower taxes. Here are key points to consider:

Getting Your Money from Hungary:

1. Hungarian Regulations:In Hungary, electronic money transfers are subject to a 0.3% banking transaction tax under current regulations.
2. Methods for Transferring Funds from Hungary: To transfer funds from Hungary, individuals can utilize wire transfers, which account for over 80% of payment transactions in the country. Commercial banks like OTP, MBH, K&H, UniCredit, Erste, Raiffeisen, and CIB Bank offer various payment services, including credit and debit card transactions.
3. Taxation: When getting money from Hungary, note that transactions by private individuals worth less than HUF 20,000 are exempt from the banking transaction tax.

Transferring Profits to a Lower Tax Jurisdiction

1. Evaluating Tax Impacts: It’s crucial to consider the tax ramifications in both the country from where the profits are transferred and the destination country. Jurisdictions such as the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Cayman Islands are frequently selected due to their absence of corporate taxes.
2. US Tax Framework: Familiarize yourself with the nuances of the US tax system, especially how it may encourage transferring profits to low-tax jurisdictions, in alignment with international tax regulations and treaties.

Limitations and Regulations

1. Repatriation Limits: When sending money from Hungary to the U.S., there are generally no specific repatriation limits enforced by the Hungarian government.
2. Tax Implications: Sending money from Hungary to the U.S. may not directly incur taxes in Hungary. However, it’s crucial to consider the U.S. tax implications, especially for larger transfers or if you’re a U.S. taxpayer.

Setting Up Transfers

Payment Methods: Sending money from the U.S. to Hungary can be done through various methods, including bank transfers, online money transfer services, and international wire transfers.

Step 11: Get an ITIN from IRS for Banking and Credit (optional step)

The IRS provides an ITIN, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, for those who need a US taxpayer identification but cannot obtain a Social Security number. For entrepreneurs from Hungary setting up a business in the U.S., securing an ITIN can facilitate more efficient banking processes and aid in building a credit profile for both the business owner and the company.

It’s important to note, though, that obtaining an ITIN is not mandatory for starting a business in the U.S.

What are the Costs and Registration Fees for Incorporating a Company in the USA?

Deciding on the most suitable state for setting up a company in the USA involves considering aspects such as incorporation expenses, the state’s regulatory environment, and specific business advantages each offers.

Below is a summary of the tax regimes in the top 5 states chosen for business incorporation:

StateCost to IncorporateAnnual Franchise Tax
Delaware$90$225
Wyoming$100$60
New Mexico$50$0
Nevada$75$0
California$70$800

Requirements to Register a Company in the USA for Hungarian Citizens

When initiating the process of company registration in the United States, these steps are critical and should be at the top of your checklist.

– Directors are required to be a minimum of 18 years old (alternatively, have a parental representative) and must have valid passports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to travel to the US for Company Registration?

Traveling to the US is not a prerequisite for registering a company, as the entire procedure has transitioned to an online format. This convenient approach means that no physical presence is required from any of the business owners or representatives. Simply scan, self-attest, and upload the necessary documents through a dedicated online registration portal.

What is a Certificate of Authentication and when is it required?

A Certificate of Authentication, while not required for the registration of a company in the USA from Hungary, can be valuable for certain specific business needs. This may include opening a bank account in Hungary or serving as evidence of a US-based company. It’s an optional document but can be important in certain contexts.

How can I obtain an Apostille for my US documents?

Getting an Apostille, a special form of validation acknowledged worldwide through the Hague Convention, is essential for many reasons. You have multiple options to obtain it, such as applying through your Registered Agent, the Secretary of State’s office, or other designated entities like U.S. federal court clerks or the U.S. Department of State Office of Authentications.

This process becomes invaluable when you’re looking to set up a bank account in Hungary or provide evidence of your U.S. company.

What should I do to authenticate Hungarian documents for use in the United States?

To begin, ensure that your documents are translated into English by an accredited translator if they’re not already in English. Following this, have them notarized by a notary public.

The next step is to have your paperwork apostilled by the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon completion of these steps, your documents will be valid in the United States.

Is the Certificate of Authentication always necessary?

No, the Certificate of Authentication is not always necessary. It’s important to consider your specific business needs to determine if this step is essential for your circumstances.

Final Steps to U.S. Business Success for Hungarian Entrepreneurs

Starting a company in the USA from Hungary is a comprehensive endeavor. Our 2024 guide lays out a complete framework, covering crucial aspects from selecting the most suitable business structure to establishing bank accounts.

Hungarian entrepreneurs can smoothly navigate this path with strategic planning and the assistance of an adept registered agent, who can facilitate the legal procedures and state registration process.

Feel free to get in touch with us for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to clarify any doubts about the above information and guide you through a rapid registration process.

Book Your 30 Minute Free Consultation.

Get Free & Instant advice on registering your business in Delaware & the USA.