Real scenario · Philippines × Freelance
Freelance services founder from Philippines forming a Delaware LLC
A Philippine freelancer on Upwork and direct client work needs a US LLC to formalize the business and access US-dollar banking.
The challenge
Manila-based freelancer earning $50K-$150K/year from US clients via Upwork and direct invoicing. Needs to professionalize, separate personal and business finances, and unlock direct Stripe billing.
Banking path
Philippines has high Mercury approval rates due to BPO-industry banking footprint. Delewarellc applies to Mercury, Wise, Payoneer (Upwork integration), Relay. Most Philippine freelancers end up with Mercury or Wise as primary and Payoneer for Upwork-routed revenue.
Tax compliance path
Philippine resident files Form 5472 + Form 1120 annually. Philippine-US tax treaty applies; personal-services article typically attributes income to the Philippines. BIR worldwide-income reporting applies.
Formation path with Delewarellc
Standard 8-10 day timeline. Philippine founders typically clear formation cleanly because English-fluency reduces communication friction and banking approval is generally high.
Outcome
Philippine freelancer operates as a US-LLC with Mercury or Wise banking. Upwork payee converted from personal to LLC. Direct clients invoiced via Stripe. Annual compliance: Form 5472, Delaware franchise tax.
Related pages for this scenario
Your scenario, your formation
$297 + Delaware state fee, one-time. WhatsApp the founder in your preferred language.