When it comes to forming a U.S. LLC as a non-resident, two states always lead the conversation — Wyoming and Delaware. Both are incredibly business-friendly, but they shine in very different ways.
Wyoming attracts entrepreneurs who value low costs, strong privacy, and zero state taxes — perfect for small businesses and solo founders who want simplicity and savings.
Delaware, on the other hand, is the go-to choice for startups and global ventures thanks to its world-famous Chancery Court, flexible business laws, and unmatched reputation among investors.
So, which state should you choose for your LLC? Let’s break it down.
Why Wyoming and Delaware Are Top Picks
Wyoming and Delaware are both known for their pro-business environments, easy LLC registration process, and strong legal protection for owners.
However, the benefits vary depending on what matters most to your business — privacy, cost, or credibility.
- Wyoming = Privacy + Affordability + Simplicity
- Delaware = Credibility + Legal Protection + Investor Trust
Both states welcome non-residents to set up businesses easily, but the right choice depends on your business vision and future growth plans.
Why Choose Wyoming for Your LLC
If you’re a startup founder or small business owner looking for maximum savings and privacy, Wyoming could be your best bet. Here’s why:
Zero State Income Tax:
Keep more of your profits! Wyoming doesn’t charge state income tax, making it a top choice for entrepreneurs who want to minimize tax burdens.
Strong Privacy Protection:
Wyoming allows LLC owners to stay anonymous — perfect for founders who prefer to keep their personal information private.
Low Annual Fees:
The annual maintenance cost is among the lowest in the U.S., helping you save year after year.
Quick & Simple Setup:
Forming an LLC in Wyoming is fast, easy, and designed to accommodate non-residents with minimal paperwork.
In short, Wyoming is all about affordability, confidentiality, and simplicity.
Why Choose Delaware for Your LLC
Delaware is often seen as the gold standard for U.S. businesses — and for good reason. It’s home to many Fortune 500 companies and is highly respected globally. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Famous Chancery Court:
Delaware’s dedicated business court ensures quick, judge-based decisions — great for startups that might deal with investors or legal agreements.
Tax-Friendly Structure:
If your LLC doesn’t operate physically in Delaware, you won’t pay state income tax — a major plus for online or international businesses.
Flexible Business Laws:
Delaware offers unmatched flexibility in ownership and structure, making it easier to scale as your company grows globally.
Global Credibility:
Forming your LLC in Delaware gives your business instant credibility with investors, banks, and partners worldwide.
If you’re planning to raise funds or expand internationally, Delaware gives your business a strong reputation and legal edge.
Cost Comparison: Wyoming vs. Delaware
When it comes to cost, Wyoming generally wins for affordability.
Formation Fees:
Wyoming has lower initial filing fees, making it ideal for budget-conscious startups.
Annual Fees:
Delaware’s annual franchise tax is higher compared to Wyoming’s simple report fee — meaning Wyoming is cheaper to maintain in the long run.
Registered Agent Fees:
Both states require a registered agent, but service costs vary slightly depending on your provider.
If you’re starting lean or managing costs carefully, Wyoming is the more cost-effective option.
Which State Works Best for International Entrepreneurs?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Your Priority | Best Choice |
| Low cost & easy setup | Wyoming |
| Privacy & anonymity | Wyoming |
| Investor credibility | Delaware |
| Global expansion plans | Delaware |
| Legal protection for contracts & disputes | Delaware |
Simply put —
- Choose Wyoming if you want to keep things private, simple, and affordable.
- Choose Delaware if you plan to raise funds, attract investors, or build a global brand.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right State for Your LLC
Both Wyoming and Delaware are excellent for forming your U.S. LLC — it all depends on your goals.
If you’re a non-resident entrepreneur focused on cost savings and privacy, Wyoming might be the smarter move.
If you’re a startup or tech founder aiming for credibility and international growth, Delaware gives you the edge.
At Incorp Genius, we make U.S. business formation simple — from LLC registration to EIN, bank account setup, Stripe, and PayPal integration.
Our experts help Indian and global entrepreneurs choose the right state and form their U.S. LLC — 100% online.
👉 Start your U.S. LLC with Incorp Genius today — and take your business global with confidence.