Do you need your own U.S. LLC to work with U.S. clients?
“Open a U.S. LLC” is common advice for freelancers abroad. Sometimes it's the right choice. But an LLC is an ongoing commitment: registration, a registered agent, a bank account, bookkeeping and U.S. filings every year.
If you have one U.S. client, there may be a simpler first step.
Your own LLC vs. a U.S. contracting party
| Your own U.S. LLC | BlueRock as contracting party | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Registration, EIN, bank account | A conversation and an agreement |
| Ongoing | Annual fees, bookkeeping, U.S. filings | No U.S. company of your own to maintain |
| Cost model | Fixed costs whether or not you have projects | 5% of turnover, only on supported projects |
| Control | Full | The role is shared and set by the agreement |
| Best for | Steady, growing U.S. revenue | First U.S. clients, or clients who require a U.S. vendor |
An example
A project brings in $10,000. BlueRock's commission is $500, and $9,500 goes to your team. Bank transfer fees, both for the incoming client payment and for the payout to your team, are covered by BlueRock out of its 5%. The calculation base and payment timing are fixed in the agreement before work starts.
When your own LLC is the better choice
If your U.S. revenue is steady and growing and you are ready to maintain a company, your own LLC can make more sense. We'll say so honestly on the first call.
Questions
Is this legal advice?
No. Requirements for non-resident LLC owners are best checked with a U.S. tax professional.
Can I start with BlueRock and open an LLC later?
Yes. The agreement covers specific projects, and the client stays yours. When you're ready to move the client to your own company, you can. There are no conditions attached.
Tell Max about your project.
Your team, your U.S. client and the operational questions you want help with.
BlueRock provides business operations and coordination support. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal, tax, financial or accounting advice.