If you’re looking to incorporate your business in the United States from anywhere in the world, you’re in the right place.
Today, I’ll walk you through the best Stripe Atlas alternatives for LLC formation in 2025.
Forming a U.S. company comes with several advantages — including easier access to business funding, and the ability to use Stripe to accept online payments globally.
Although Stripe Atlas remains a well-known and trusted service for setting up a U.S.-based company, it’s not the only option available. In fact, there are several powerful Stripe Atlas alternatives that may offer better pricing, more flexibility, or faster processing times.
So if you’re an entrepreneur outside the U.S. hoping to register an LLC in America, this guide will help you find the best possible solution.
With Stripe Atlas, here’s what you’re able to do in one streamlined setup:
✅ Form a C Corporation or LLC in Delaware
✅ Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) for tax filing
✅ Create a verified Stripe Business Account
✅ Open a U.S. business bank account
✅ Access legal and tax guidance from experts
All of these services are offered under a flat fee of $500.
However, it’s important to note that additional ongoing costs apply when running a U.S.-based business. These include:
💳 Bank Account Maintenance – $25/month (for C Corporations only)
- 🏛️ Delaware Registered Agent Fee – $100/year🧾 Additional services such as annual tax filing, compliance support, and legal documentation
So even if your main goal is simply to open a Stripe account, this is the full process and cost breakdown you’ll need to be prepared for.
The Best Stripe Atlas Alternative
As I mentioned earlier, the only way to successfully set up a Stripe account is by having both your LLC and EIN created.
However, doing that with Stripe Atlas will cost at least $500 to set up, which may be expensive for those on a tighter budget.
In this post, I’ll show you how to set up your LLC and get your federal TAX ID for less than $200.
In fact, with under $290, you can incorporate your business in the U.S., obtain your EIN, and set up your Stripe account successfully.
So, if you’re looking for the best Stripe Atlas alternative, this post is made for you.
Like you, I’m not based in the U.S., but I have my business set up there, which allows me to use Stripe to process payments on my websites — a much better option than PayPal.
I accomplished this by using Northwest Registered Agent and choosing New Mexico as my business state because it’s relatively affordable.
Technically, you can apply for an LLC formation through Northwest Registered Agent for just $39, with the only other payment being your state filing fees.
The good news is I’ve partnered with them because I know many people need this service, and I want to offer it through the best platform.
Speaking as a non-resident of the U.S., I understand how valuable this can be for your online business.
Why We Recommend Northwest Registered Agent as the Top Stripe Atlas Alternative
Choosing the right service to incorporate your business is a key step in making your entrepreneurial vision a reality.
Northwest Registered Agent has established itself as a trusted leader in business formation services across the United States.
Their dedication to making the business setup process straightforward and hassle-free has earned them high praise from entrepreneurs and small business owners alike.
Although both Northwest Registered Agent and Stripe Atlas provide solid incorporation options, there are several reasons why Northwest Registered Agent stands out as the preferred alternative:
Personalized Support
Northwest Registered Agent is well-known for delivering outstanding customer service.
They provide each client with a dedicated specialist who offers tailored assistance every step of the way during the incorporation process.
This personalized approach is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the complexities of starting a business.
Registered Agent Services
Northwest Registered Agent specializes in providing registered agent services, expertly managing legal and compliance responsibilities on your behalf.
This offering extends beyond what Stripe Atlas typically provides, ensuring your business remains compliant with state requirements and giving you greater peace of mind.
Nationwide Coverage
With the ability to help you form a business in any U.S. state, Northwest Registered Agent offers wider geographic support compared to Stripe Atlas, which is limited to certain states.
Transparent Pricing
Northwest Registered Agent is praised for its clear and straightforward pricing structure, allowing you to plan your – budget without surprises.
You’ll have full clarity on costs with no hidden charges.
Experience and Reputation
With more than 20 years of experience, Northwest Registered Agent has built a strong reputation as a dependable leader in the industry.
Their consistent track record of reliability and efficiency reflects their dedication to helping clients succeed.
Additional Services
Northwest Registered Agent also provides a variety of extra services, including annual report filing, EIN acquisition, and mail forwarding, which are important for maintaining your business’s compliance and communication over time.
How to Get Started with Northwest Registered Agent
One of the standout features of Northwest Registered Agent is its clear and upfront pricing model. You won’t have to worry about surprise charges — everything is transparent, making it easy to plan your business setup costs.
Forming your LLC through their platform is a smooth and beginner-friendly process. To make things easier, I’ve created a simple walkthrough you can follow step by step.
Before you begin, it’s worth checking out feedback from real customers online to get an idea of what to expect in terms of service and support.
Now, let’s move forward with creating your LLC using Northwest Registered Agent. Just follow the steps, and you’ll be well on your way to securing both your company registration and Tax ID.
Step 1: Visit the Northwest Registered Agent Website
To begin the process, head over to the official Northwest Registered Agent website. Once you land on the homepage, click the button that says “Let’s Get You Started” to begin your business formation.
On the next page, you’ll be asked to choose your preferred business entity type and the U.S. state where you plan to establish your business.
Step 2: Choose Your Business Structure and Formation State
From the dropdown options, choose LLC (Limited Liability Company) and then pick the state where you’d like to register. A popular choice is New Mexico, thanks to its low setup fees and no annual state tax.
The base formation service starts at just $39, and the state filing fee for New Mexico is typically around $50.
You’ll also be given the option to speed up the processing time with faster filing options — such as 6-day, 4-day, or 2-day turnaround.
After selecting your options, click Continue to proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Enter Your Business Details
At this stage, you’ll need to provide your desired business name. The system will automatically check its availability with the state.
If your business name is available, it will be approved and registered after the state processes the filing. If not, you’ll be asked to modify it — at no extra charge.
You’ll also need to provide a brief description of your business activities. For example, if your company name is “SmartBizFreedom LLC,” you might describe it as “an online education and consulting brand.”
One of the biggest advantages of using Northwest Registered Agent is that you don’t need to worry about having a U.S. business address. They allow you to use their address as your registered business address, which saves you the hassle (and cost) of renting a virtual address.
If you also don’t have a U.S. mailing address, you can choose to have Northwest handle your mail forwarding. But if you want physical documents delivered, be sure to provide a U.S. mailing address during setup.
Step 4: Choose Your Company Management Structure
In this step, you’ll specify how your business will be managed — either member-managed or manager-managed.
You’ll also have the option to keep your ownership details private by selecting the checkbox that omits members or managers from the public state record.
Next, indicate how many members will be part of the LLC. If you’re the only owner, simply select one member and enter your full name.
Step 5: Create Your Northwest Registered Agent Account
Now it’s time to set up your personal account with Northwest Registered Agent. This account gives you access to your business dashboard where you can track documents, filings, and compliance updates.
Enter a valid email address, create a secure password, and click Continue.
On the next screen, provide your personal contact details — including the country you live in. These details are required to complete the business formation.
Step 6: Apply for Your EIN (Tax ID)
If you don’t have a Social Security Number or are forming a U.S. business as a foreign individual, Northwest Registered Agent can obtain your EIN (Employer Identification Number) for a one-time fee of $200.
Compared to other services that often hide fees or add unnecessary upsells, Northwest keeps this process straightforward and fully transparent.
You only need to select the Tax ID option here — feel free to skip any additional services unless you specifically need them.
Step 7: Finalize Payment and Checkout
The final step is entering your card information to complete the registration process.
Once payment is submitted, your LLC formation and EIN application will be processed, and you’ll receive updates directly through your Northwest dashboard.
Opening Your Stripe Account
Once your LLC is formed, you’ll also receive your tax ID, which is an essential requirement for setting up a Stripe account.
To begin, go to the Stripe website and sign up for an account using your email address and full name.
After registering, you’ll need to activate the account by completing the application form. This includes providing your US company information, your tax ID (EIN), your personal details, and uploading a valid government-issued ID.
If all information is submitted correctly, your account should be approved within a few business days.
Once approved, you’ll be able to use Stripe to accept payments on your website, with all payouts directed to your US business bank account.
Opening a US Bank Account
Setting up a US bank account is straightforward, especially with services like Payoneer. To get started, simply register on Payoneer.com and activate the Global Payment Service. This will give you access to virtual US bank account information.
Once your account is active, you can start receiving payouts from Stripe directly into your Payoneer account and then withdraw the funds in your local currency. It’s a quick and convenient solution.
To connect Payoneer to Stripe, just log in to your Stripe dashboard, go to the payout settings, and enter your Payoneer account number. Once added, your Stripe payouts will be routed there automatically.
And just like that, you’ve got a US-based business setup and the ability to accept online payments through Stripe. Not bad, right?
Conclusion
At this point, your US company should be fully registered and ready to operate legally.
Northwest Registered Agent has years of experience and provides excellent support, making it a great alternative to Stripe Atlas when forming your LLC.
That wraps up this guide on the best Stripe Atlas alternative for business formation. Feel free to drop your questions or share your thoughts in the comment section.
