# Set up your business with clarity and confidence Registering an LLC or corporation can be tricky, for emerging and established entrepreneurs alike. Below are some resources and formation perks to get you started on the right foot. ## Forming your business Whether you’re starting something you intend to grow into the next great tech company, or forming your own agency or consulting business, check out these helpful resources on acing the registration process. ## Four steps to incorporate your startup Explore the pros and cons of incorporation and see the whole process broken down into steps. [Read the article](/content/blog/how-to-incorporate-startup/index.html) ## How to form and register an LLC Dive into the world of limited liability companies and how to set one up. [Read the article](/content/blog/how-to-register-llc/index.html) ## Trusted partners to help you get started ### LegalZoom LegalZoom is the #1 online legal service, empowering over 9M people to confidently manage their legal journey. From business formation and compliance to ongoing legal support, they provide intuitive tools and access to attorney guidance for building your business on solid ground. ### LLC partner perk 20% off Pro and Premium LLC Plans (excluding state filings fees) ## Stripe Atlas Join the 1 in 5 US founders who use Atlas to incorporate their startups. Within 2 business days, you'll have everything you need to fundraise, open a bank account, and accept payments. ### Incorporation partner perk 30% off when you sign up through Mercury (including all state fees) [Get Started](https://stripe.com/atlas/mercury) ## Additional resources From in-depth articles to practical guides, see all of our resources to help you start your business [here](/content/blog/topics/starting-a-business/index.html). ## Why startups should always incorporate Explore the details of different business structures before making your decision. [Read the article](/content/blog/startups-should-incorporate/index.html) ## How to register a name for your company Everything you need to know about choosing a business name and safeguarding your brand. [Read the article](/content/blog/how-to-register-company-name/index.html) ## How to trademark a company name Why and how getting a trademark helps protect your brand, logo, and company name. [Read the article](/content/blog/how-to-trademark-a-name/index.html) ## Why so many startups choose to incorporate in Delaware Incorporating in one of the most business-friendly states in the U.S. has its advantages. [Read the article](/content/blog/startups-choose-delaware/index.html) ## How to start a U.S. ecommerce business Navigating some of the early decisions that can have a long-term impact on your business. [Read the article](/content/blog/setting-up-a-us-business/index.html) ## How to choose the structure of your ecommerce company The structure of your business determines your legal protections, taxes, and more. [Read the article](/content/blog/choosing-the-right-business-structure/index.html) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Do I need to incorporate or register my business? There are many business structures available to startups and small businesses, including LLCs and corporations. The easiest business structure is to operate as a sole proprietor, because you do not need any formal business registration or [separate tax return filing](/content/blog/guide-to-tax-season/index.html). This may work best for small scale operations if you’re not hiring employees, opening a business bank account, or signing contracts in a business name. For many founders, forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the smartest starting point. It offers flexibility, protects your personal assets, and sets you up for future growth. Learn more about how to register an LLC [here](/content/blog/how-to-register-llc/index.html). ### Can I form a business without using a formation service? Yes, you can form a business on your own. It’ll take a bit more legwork to handle the paperwork and requirements yourself. Check out our step-by-step guides on [how to incorporate your business](/content/blog/how-to-incorporate-startup/index.html) or [how to register your LLC](/content/blog/how-to-register-llc/index.html) on how to get started. ### Do I need a registered agent? Yes — every state requires one. You can be your own, but a professional service may offer better privacy and consistency. ### Should I be my own registered agent? You can, but make sure you're available during business hours and okay with your address being public. ### Is a business bank account required to start a company? A business bank account is not legally required to form a company, but there are many benefits to opening a business bank account once you start your business, including: - Separation of finances: Keeps your personal and business finances distinct, which is critical for liability protection and bookkeeping. - Professionalism: Helps establish credibility with clients and vendors. - Tax and legal compliance: Makes it easier to track expenses, prepare taxes, and provide clear records if audited. ### What is Mercury? Mercury was founded with the idea of making banking [2](/content/business-formation-resources#footnote-business-fdic-sans-evolve/index.html) better for startups. We spent our first five years creating a powerful bank account that made banking feel less like an obstacle and more like a catalyst. Now, we’re building software to run all your financial operations from that powerful bank account so your company can perform at its best — that means more precision, more control, and more focus. We call it “operational excellence.” We offer: - Checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees - The protection of up to $5M in FDIC insurance [2](/content/business-formation-resources#footnote-business-fdic-sans-evolve/index.html) through our [partner banks](/content/blog/inside-mercury/how-mercury-works-with-partner-banks/index.html) and their [sweep networks](/content/blog/understanding-bank-sweep-network/index.html) - Debit and credit cards [3](/content/business-formation-resources#footnote-business-cards-sans-evolve/index.html) for your whole team - Reimbursements for out-of-pocket expenses - Wires, ACH, and check payments - Treasury [4](/content/business-formation-resources#footnote-business-treasury-rate-of-return-and-condensed-ria/index.html) management and venture debt options - Time-saving finance automations, including bill pay, invoicing, accounting automations, and expense reimbursements - Customizable permissions that keep you in control - The knowledge, network, and connections you need - An experience over 200K startups love ### What do I need to apply for an account? You’ll need your company’s official formation documents, your IRS-issued EIN document, and a government ID (e.g., a passport or U.S. government identification document – see all acceptable documents [here](https://support.mercury.com/hc/en-us/articles/28770957425172-Gathering-your-documents)) for at least one person with operating control of the business, as well as any owner with at least 25% ownership of your company. You'll also need to provide some information about your company and its owner with operating control. Customers must be formed and registered in the United States or a U.S. territory, have some type of existing or planned operations in the U.S., and have a U.S. or international address for their principal place of business. This can be a residential address, but may not be a registered agent, P.O. box, or UPS box address. ### Can I apply for an account if I’m not physically in the United States or a United States resident? Yes, we’re proud to support U.S. companies founded by people across the globe. Customers must be formed and registered in the United States or a U.S. territory, must have some type of existing or planned operations in the U.S., and have a U.S. or international address for their principal place of business. This can be a residential address, but may not be a registered agent, P.O. box, or UPS box address. ### What companies will you accept as customers? Mercury supports all types of businesses — from SaaS and ecommerce companies, to agencies, consultants, law firms, and real estate developers. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur, managing a team, or overseeing multiple businesses, Mercury is designed to fit your business as you grow. We accept most U.S. companies that aren’t money services businesses or involved with adult entertainment, cannabis or internet gambling. Our product might not be the best fit for businesses frequently dealing with physical cash and we cannot open accounts for trusts. ### Are my deposits FDIC-insured? Mercury checking and savings deposits are FDIC-insured up to $5M [2](/content/business-formation-resources#footnote-business-fdic-sans-evolve/index.html) through our [partner banks](/content/blog/inside-mercury/how-mercury-works-with-partner-banks/index.html) and their use of [sweep networks](/content/blog/understanding-bank-sweep-network/index.html). As a broader effort, we are working on expanding all coverage even further. You can learn more about FDIC insurance [here](https://www.fdic.gov/deposit/deposits/faq.html).