Wyoming or New Mexico: Which State Should You Form Your LLC In?

Wyoming and New Mexico are both popular choices for non-US residents because of low cost and simple procedures. The difference lies in upkeep cost and how you want to run the LLC.

Quick comparison

• Filing fee: Wyoming about $100; New Mexico about $50.
• Annual report: Wyoming requires one, from about $60/year; New Mexico does not.
• State corporate income tax: Wyoming has none.
• Privacy: New Mexico doesn't show owner names in its public records; Wyoming also doesn't require listing members, but look closely at the organizer's details on the filing.

Cost over the first 3 years

Using the illustrative figures in USBizViet's cost calculator, New Mexico comes to about $50 (no annual report fee), while Wyoming is about $280 ($100 filing fee plus roughly $60 a year). That excludes Registered Agent fees, which apply similarly in both states.

When to choose Wyoming

• You want a widely recognized state that is easy to explain to banks and partners.
• You accept a small annual report fee in exchange for familiarity.

When to choose New Mexico

• You want the lowest possible cost and don't want to remember an annual report deadline.
• You value not having the owner's name in public records.

What matters more than the choice of state

If you genuinely have an office, warehouse or employees in another state, you may have to register to do business there (foreign qualification) no matter where the LLC was formed. For someone selling online from abroad this usually doesn't arise, but confirm with a professional.

Both states suit non-resident online sellers. Use the quiz or the cost calculator on this site to compare for your specific situation.

This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change by state and over time — check the official state/IRS pages and consult a professional before you decide.