Wyoming has become the go-to state for solo founders and creators forming their first LLC. Here's exactly why — and when you might want Delaware instead.
Wyoming LLCs cost **$100 to form** and **$60/year to renew**. No state income tax, strong privacy, almost no ongoing compliance burden.
| | Wyoming | Delaware |
|---|---|---|
| Formation fee | $100 | $140 |
| Annual cost | $60 | $300+ franchise tax |
| State income tax | None | None (for out-of-state business) |
| Public member list | No | No |
| Privacy | Strong | Moderate |
| VC/investor familiarity | Low | High |
Delaware is famous because VCs and lawyers are used to it. If you plan to raise venture capital or issue multiple classes of stock — Delaware C-Corp is what you want.
If you're a creator, freelancer, solo SaaS founder, or small agency owner with no plans to raise VC money, Wyoming is almost always the better financial decision.
Wyoming doesn't require you to list member names in public records. Your name stays off public databases. For solo founders who don't want their home address on record, this matters.
Wyoming has no state income tax. Neither does South Dakota, Nevada, or Texas — but Wyoming wins on formation costs and privacy versus those states.
1. Check name availability at wyobiz.wyo.gov
2. Hire a Wyoming registered agent (~$50–100/yr — required if you don't live there)
3. File Articles of Organization at wyobiz.wyo.gov — $100
4. Create an Operating Agreement
5. Get your EIN at irs.gov (free)
6. Open a business bank account
Total out-of-pocket: ~$200 first year.
Budget $50–100/year for a registered agent. Real annual cost: ~$160/year. Still cheaper than Delaware.
For a solo founder building a digital product, content business, or service company: form a Wyoming LLC, get your EIN, open a business bank account, and move. Don't overthink the legal structure.
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