Choosing a State

Amazon FBA Sellers: Wyoming vs Delaware LLC in 2026

Updated May 22, 2026 7 min read
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Non-US Amazon FBA seller deciding between Wyoming and Delaware LLC in 2026, laptop displaying FBA, global business focus.

For non-US Amazon FBA sellers in 2026, the choice between forming an LLC in Wyoming or Delaware is a critical decision that influences operational costs, tax obligations, and legal protections. This guide details the practical implications of each state for your FBA business. Understanding these differences can save you significant time and money, ensuring your e-commerce venture operates efficiently and compliantly within the US legal framework. We will examine the specific benefits and drawbacks relevant to international FBA merchants, cutting through common misconceptions.

Understanding Your FBA Nexus for Sales Tax in 2026

As a non-US Amazon FBA seller, your primary sales tax obligation in 2026 stems from where your inventory is stored. Amazon's fulfillment centers create a physical nexus. This means you will likely need to register for sales tax in multiple US states, regardless of where your LLC is formed.

The state where your LLC is registered does not automatically trigger sales tax nexus. Focus your nexus strategy on Amazon's inventory placement reports. Economic nexus thresholds also apply once your sales volume or transaction count in a specific state exceeds certain limits, typically $100,000 or 200 transactions.

Wyoming LLC for Amazon FBA: Advantages for Non-US Sellers

Wyoming offers a compelling package for non-US FBA sellers in 2026. Its annual report fee is only $60 at present, making it one of the most affordable states for maintaining an LLC. Wyoming also maintains strong privacy provisions, not requiring owner names to be listed on public records.

Wyoming does not impose a state income tax or franchise tax on LLCs. This keeps your state-level financial obligations minimal, a significant advantage for FBA businesses with potentially fluctuating profits. Its business-friendly environment and straightforward compliance process simplify operations for international founders.

Operational Costs Comparison: Wyoming vs Delaware for FBA

Let's compare the direct costs for an FBA LLC. Wyoming's annual maintenance cost is typically $60 plus registered agent fees, which average $100-$150 per year. So, expect around $160-$210 annually.

Delaware, in contrast, charges a $300 annual Franchise Tax plus registered agent fees. This brings the annual cost to approximately $400-$450. For an FBA business, these recurring costs impact your bottom line, especially in the early stages when profits may be tighter.

When forming, initial filing fees are comparable, around $100-$150 in both states. The long-term difference in annual fees makes Wyoming a more cost-effective choice for many non-US FBA sellers.

Banking and EIN Acquisition for Non-US FBA LLCs

Regardless of whether you choose Wyoming or Delaware, the process for obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number) remains the same for non-US residents. You will apply using Form SS-4, typically by fax or mail, and can often use a third-party service to expedite this. Bastion Formations can assist with this key step.

Opening a US business bank account remotely is also feasible from either state. Neo-banks such as Mercury or Relay Financial cater specifically to non-US founders. They do not require a physical US address or an in-person visit. You will need your EIN and LLC formation documents.

Tax Implications Beyond Sales Tax for FBA Sellers

As a non-US FBA seller with a US LLC, your federal income tax status will likely be a disregarded entity (Single-Member LLC, by default). This means you generally will not pay US federal income tax if your business does not have a 'Permanent Establishment' (physical presence) in the US and if you do not have 'Effectively Connected Income' (ECI).

Selling tangible personal property, like FBA products, from outside the US to US customers typically does not create ECI, provided you solely use Amazon's FBA service and do not maintain your own US office or employees. You will still need to file Form 5472 and Form 1120 with the IRS annually for informational purposes, even if zero tax is due.

Frequently asked questions

Does my LLC state choice affect Amazon FBA fees?+

No, Amazon FBA fees, including storage and fulfillment, are determined by Amazon's policies and your product type, not your LLC formation state.

Will I avoid sales tax if I form my LLC in Wyoming?+

No, your LLC formation state does not determine your sales tax obligations. Sales tax nexus for FBA sellers is created by inventory storage in Amazon warehouses and economic thresholds.

Can I open a US bank account for my FBA LLC remotely?+

Yes, several challenger banks like Mercury or Relay Financial allow non-US residents to open business bank accounts remotely for their US LLCs.

Is the EIN process different for Wyoming vs Delaware FBA LLCs?+

No, the process for obtaining an EIN from the IRS is identical for LLCs formed in Wyoming or Delaware for non-US residents.

What is the main advantage of Delaware for FBA over Wyoming?+

Delaware's main advantage is its strong corporate legal system, which is appealing to investors, but it offers little direct benefit for day-to-day FBA operations compared to Wyoming.

How much does an FBA LLC cost annually in Wyoming?+

In Wyoming, an FBA LLC will cost approximately $160 to $210 annually, including the state fee and a registered agent.

Do I pay US income tax as a non-US FBA seller?+

Generally, if you solely use Amazon FBA and have no other US physical presence, you will not pay US federal income tax but must file informational returns (Form 5472, Form 1120).

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