Delaware LLC vs C-Corp Decision Tool (free 2026 tool)
Decision matrix for choosing between Delaware LLC and Delaware C-Corporation based on your situation. Free tool for non-resident Delaware LLC founders.
What this tool does
Asks 5-7 questions about your business plans and returns a recommendation: Delaware LLC or Delaware C-Corp. Key questions: VC fundraising timeline, employee hiring plans, US-resident co-founders, profit retention strategy.
Who needs it
Founders deciding between LLC and C-Corp formation.
How it works
- Answer questions about your business plans and timeline.
- Tool weighs each answer against decision factors.
- Returns recommendation with rationale.
- Links to formation services for the chosen entity type.
Inputs
- VC fundraising plan within 24 months (Y/N)
- Plan to hire US-resident employees (Y/N)
- US-resident co-founders (Y/N)
- Profit retention vs distribution preference
Output
LLC or C-Corp recommendation with reasoning.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-US resident form a Delaware LLC?
Yes. Non-US residents can form a Delaware LLC without a Social Security Number, US address, or US presence. You need a passport for identity verification, an EIN for IRS purposes, and a Delaware Registered Agent. Delewarellc forms Delaware LLCs for non-resident founders for $297 plus the $110 Delaware state fee.
What does a Delaware LLC cost?
Delaware LLC year-one costs are $110 state filing fee plus registered agent fees ($50-$179/year depending on provider) plus optional service fees. Delewarellc charges $297 plus the state fee for full formation including registered agent for Year 1, EIN application, Operating Agreement, and bank account applications.
Do I need a US address to form a Delaware LLC?
No. You do not need a personal US address. The Delaware LLC needs a registered agent address (which Delewarellc provides) and an address for IRS correspondence (which can be your home address abroad).
Primary sources cited
- Delaware Certificate of Formation filing fee is $110. corp.delaware.gov fee schedule 2026
- Delaware LLCs pay a flat $300 annual franchise tax due June 1, regardless of revenue or member count. Delaware Code Title 6 § 18-1107(b)
- The IRS Form 5472 penalty for non-residents who miss filing is $25,000 per occurrence. IRS Instructions for Form 5472
Related resources
Form your Delaware LLC today
$297 + Delaware state fee, one-time. 8-10 days. One-time pricing.