Do you want to sell on Amazon from outside the United States? Would you like to get paid in dollars, have access to over 300 million consumers, and operate as a formal business in the world’s largest market? Then, this article is for you.
In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to start selling on Amazon United States using an LLC, even if you live outside the U.S. and don’t have American citizenship. You’ll be surprised at how accessible the entire process is if you follow the right instructions: creating your company, obtaining your tax identification number, and activating your Amazon store can be easier than you imagine.
What is an LLC and Why is it Key to Selling on Amazon?
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a legal business structure in the United States. For international entrepreneurs, it’s the best option to start selling on Amazon for several reasons:
- You can open it without living in the U.S. No visa, residency, or travel required.
- Legal and financial protection: the LLC separates your personal assets from those of the company. If something goes wrong, your personal wealth isn’t at risk.
- Easy payment collection: an LLC can open bank accounts in dollars and use gateways like Stripe, Payoneer, or Mercury.
- Greater credibility: Amazon and suppliers trust U.S.-registered businesses more.
- Tax advantages: if you don’t have an office, employees, or physical activity there, you may be exempt from federal tax.
What Do You Need to Sell on Amazon USA with Your LLC?
To get your Seller Central account up and running, you need to gather these elements:
1. Create Your LLC
The first step is to form the company in a business-friendly state like:
- Florida: excellent for logistics and international trade through its ports.
- Wyoming: privacy and low maintenance cost.
- Delaware: ideal if you plan to scale or seek investment later.
Creation is done online in a few days by filing the Articles of Organization.
2. Obtain the EIN
This is your company’s tax identification number, issued by the IRS (the U.S. tax agency). You’ll need it to:
- Invoice
- File taxes (even if you don’t pay)
- Open your bank account
- Activate your Amazon Seller Central account
It’s requested by fax to the IRS, and usually takes between 7 and 10 business days.
3. Open a Dollar Bank Account
You can do this with digital banks like:
- Mercury
- Relay
- Wise (for conversions)
You’ll need the EIN, your LLC documents, and a legal address in the U.S. (your registered agent’s address works).
4. Prepare the Documents Amazon Requires
Amazon requires some key data to validate your account:
- Legal name of the company (matching the LLC)
- Physical address in the U.S. (your agent’s)
- EIN number
- Owner’s identity document
- Proof of address from your country of residence
- A USD bank account in the LLC’s name
- Form W-9
Why is Amazon USA a Great Opportunity?
Selling on Amazon gives you access to:
- Over 300 million active consumers
- Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): Amazon stores, packs, and ships your products
- Automatic payments: every 14 days they transfer to your account
- Internal advertising (Amazon Ads) to scale your sales
- International reach: your products reach every corner of the U.S. without worrying about logistics
How Much Does it Cost to Sell on Amazon?
- Professional plan: USD 39.99/month
- Sales commissions: depends on the category (between 8% and 15% on average)
- FBA fees: storage, packaging, shipping
- Annual tax filings: even if you don’t owe, you must file forms like 5472 and 1120-PRO
Additionally, if you use prep centers, consider:
- Inspection and relabeling cost: between USD 1 and 2 per unit
- Internal shipping: from the prep center to Amazon’s warehouse (FBA)
Key Advantages of Doing it with an LLC
- It allows you to register your account as a U.S. company, offering more stability and reducing verification rejections.
- You facilitate access to suppliers and wholesalers that require EIN and U.S. address.
- You pay less taxes if you don’t have physical activity in the U.S. (0% federal).
- You separate your personal liability: if something goes wrong, your personal assets aren’t affected.
Action Timeline (Estimated 30 Days)
- Day 1-3: Create the LLC
- Day 4-10: Request and receive the EIN
- Day 11-15: Open bank account
- Day 16-20: Configure Amazon Seller Central
- Day 21-30: First FBA shipment and publish your first catalog
What if You Never Set Foot in the U.S.?
No problem! You can do everything from your country. There are registered agent services, prep centers, and accountants who work with foreign owners like you. At ExpressFormations, we can help you set everything up from scratch.
Conclusion: Your Catalog, in Dollars
With an LLC you not only access Amazon USA: you become a true international business. You can collect in dollars, use global tools, hire freelancers, and scale without borders.
Ready to start? Begin the process with ExpressFormations
This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Amazon regulations and IRS requirements may change. Consult with qualified professionals for current, specific guidance.
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This article does not offer legal or tax advice. If needed, seek the help of a professional. The information provided is for informational purposes only and is publicly available.