LLC

I thought I could choose any state for my LLC without consequences

Started by PurpleTreeFrog • November 14, 2026 • 8 replies
PurpleTreeFrog

I run a small online store from my apartment. When I formed my LLC, I picked Wyoming because a blog said it was cheap and private. I don't live there. I have no address there. Now I'm trying to open a business bank account and they're asking for proof of presence. Am I screwed? I thought the whole point was you could pick any state.

NateTheGr8

The state you pick for formation isn't the problem. The problem is you're doing business in your home state and didn't register there as a foreign entity. Wyoming won't care, but your state will once they find out.

calicocat22

what nate said. also the registered agent thing. did you pay one? because if your wyoming agent address is a virtual office, banks sometimes flag it.

Derek_from_Ohio

Been there. I formed in Delaware for an ecommerce thing years ago and never registered in Ohio. Went fine for two years until I got a letterr from the secretary of state. Back fees plus penalty. Cost me more than the Delaware setup saved.

NateTheGr8

Also, opening a bank account is a separate issue from state registration. Even if you fix the foreign registration, the bank may still want a physical address where you actually operate. Some online banks are less picky, but the big onse won't take a Wyoming virtual address for a business that clearly operates from your apartment.

snickerdoodle_88

I don't understand the appeal of Wyoming. Everyone online says it's the best but nobody explains why. Is it just the annual fee?

calicocat22

low annual report fee and no state income tax, but none of that matters if you're physically operating elsewhere. people copy blog posts without reading past the headline.

Derek_from_Ohio

If I were you I'd register as a foreign entity in your home state first, thaen talk to the bank. Don't dissolve the Wyoming LLC yet, that's a mess. But get a local registered agent address so your bank sees a real place.

NateTheGr8

One more thing: the bank account issue might be fixable with a different bank. The foreign registration issue is not optional. Two separate problems, deal with with the state one first.


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