Frequently Asked Questions About Simplifying Your Business Startup

To obtain an ITIN with Simple Start, you need a valid government ID that proves your identity and foreign status (for example, passport, national ID, birth certificate, etc.) and the documents that explain why you need the ITIN (for example, to file a U.S. tax return, bank or lender requirements, or other official requests). Our office is certified by the IRS as a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), so we can verify your documents in person, prepare your full ITIN package correctly, and submit everything directly to the IRS without you mailing your original passport.

If you apply through Simple Start, you do not need to mail your original passport directly to the IRS. As an IRS‑certified CAA, we can review and certify your identity documents in our office so that your original passport stays with you while we submit the ITIN application.

An ITIN is used to comply with U.S. tax laws when you do not qualify for a Social Security number. With an ITIN you can file federal tax returns, be included as a spouse or dependent on a tax return, and in many cases open bank accounts and support other financial processes that require a taxpayer identification number.

Yes, some banks and financial institutions accept an ITIN instead of a Social Security number to apply for a personal credit card. Approval depends on each lender’s policies, your identification, income, and overall profile.

In many cases you can start building personal credit in the U.S. using an ITIN with lenders and products that accept it. By using credit responsibly and paying on time, your accounts can help create a credit history and score in your name.

Yes, there are mortgage lenders and auto finance companies that work with clients who have an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. Requirements such as down payment, interest rate, income documentation, and time in the U.S. will vary by lender, but an ITIN can be used to start these processes.

It depends on the state in which you choose to open.The time to open a company depends on the state where it is formed and the type of entity you choose. Some states approve in 24–72 hours, while others may take several business days or more, especially with standard (non‑expedited) processing.

Our business formation service typically includes: name search and registration with the state, preparation and filing of formation documents (for example, LLC or corporation), EIN application support, basic internal documents for your entity (such as operating agreement or corporate minutes, depending on the package), and guidance on next steps for taxes, banking, and compliance.

You do not always need a Social Security number to open a business in the United States. Many states allow foreign owners to form a company using other identification and an EIN instead of a Social Security number.

If you are a foreign national, you generally need: a valid government ID or passport; a U.S. address for the company and registered agent (if you do not yet have an address in the United States, there are companies that offer virtual office services that can be used for certain business purposes); and basic information about the owners and managers. We help you choose the right state and structure, obtain an EIN, and prepare the formation documents even if you do not live in the U.S.

You do not always need to be physically in the United States to open a business. In many cases, all formation steps can be completed remotely with our assistance, as long as you provide the required identification and information.

You can usually use your home country address as the owner’s mailing address, but most states require a U.S. address for the company’s principal office and for the registered agent. We provide a registered agent service so your business can meet these requirements.

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is the federal tax ID number for your company. It is used to file business taxes, open business bank accounts, hire employees, and work with many lenders and vendors.

Yes, in many cases you can obtain an EIN even if you do not have a Social Security number. We guide you through the EIN application process for foreign owners and make sure the information is submitted correctly.

The “best” state depends on your goals, where you will actually do business, and your tax and privacy needs. Many foreign owners choose states like Delaware, Wyoming, or Florida for their business‑friendly laws and relatively simple maintenance, but the ideal state is evaluated case by case.

To keep your company active you should plan for: annual state reports or franchise taxes; registered agent fees; tax preparation and bookkeeping; and any licenses or permits required for your activity and location. We explain these ongoing costs before forming your company so you know what to expect each year.

A registered agent is the official contact for your company with the state. This agent receives legal notices, official letters, and important documents on behalf of your business. Simple Start acts as your registered agent so you do not miss important notices and can maintain your company in good standing.

Some banks and financial institutions allow you to open a business or personal account using an ITIN number and other valid identification instead of a Social Security number. Requirements vary by bank, and we guide you on which documents you need and how to present your company and profile properly.

Some banks require you to be physically present, while others offer virtual or online banking options for foreign clients that can be started remotely. However, most virtual banks that allow accounts to be opened at a distance do not offer Zelle, so it is important to choose the type of bank according to how you plan to receive and send payments.

It depends on each person's credit history.There is no exact timeline for credit building because it depends on each person’s credit history and how consistently they follow the plan. Some clients begin to see initial changes in a few months, while stronger results usually require several months of responsible use and on‑time payments.

The way you file depends on your business structure. Sole proprietors and many single‑member LLCs report business income on their personal tax return, while partnerships, S‑corps, and corporations file separate business tax returns and the owners receive forms to report their share. We review your entity type and income to prepare both your personal and business tax filings correctly.

Yes, we offer tax services for individuals and businesses. We help you understand what forms you need, organize your information, and file your returns accurately and on time, taking into account both U.S. rules and your specific situation as a resident or foreign owner.

We offer marketing support focused on new and growing businesses, such as branding guidance, basic digital presence, and referrals to specialized partners when you need more advanced marketing strategies. Our goal is to help your company look professional and attract clients from the beginning.

There is no fixed timeline for loans and funding because every case is different. We work with around 100 lenders and offer different types of products, and we charge a fee based on the capital obtained. The time depends on the program selected, the documents you provide, your credit profile, and how quickly lenders review your file.

To obtain an ITIN with Simple Start, you need a valid government ID that proves your identity and foreign status (for example, passport, national ID, birth certificate, etc.) and the documents that explain why you need the ITIN (for example, to file a U.S. tax return, bank or lender requirements, or other official requests). Our office is certified by the IRS as a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), so we can verify your documents in person, prepare your full ITIN package correctly, and submit everything directly to the IRS without you mailing your original passport.