US LLCs for Non-Residents: Maximizing Privacy with a Nominee Service in 2026

A nominee service involves an individual or entity agreeing to be publicly listed as an officer, director, or even a member of your LLC. This arrangement shields your actual name from appearing on state registration documents, which are typically public records. For non-US residents, this is a way to operate in the US market with a reduced public profile.

The nominee acts solely at your direction, based on a formal agreement. They have no actual ownership or control over the company's assets or operations. This distinction is critical for legal and operational clarity.

When you register an LLC, certain information like the organizer's name or the initial registered agent's details often become publicly accessible. A nominee can serve as this public face, allowing your personal name to remain undisclosed on state formation documents.

This approach is particularly valuable in states like Wyoming and Delaware, which already offer some of the strongest statutory privacy protections for LLC members. Adding a nominee service further reinforces that privacy layer.

It is vital to understand that a nominee service does not exempt you from the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) requirements in 2026. The CTA mandates that most LLCs report beneficial ownership information (BOI) directly to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

Beneficial owners are individuals who directly or indirectly own 25% or more of the company or exercise substantial control. This information is not publicly accessible but is available to law enforcement and other authorized agencies. A nominee cannot be listed as a beneficial owner if they do not meet these criteria.

The cost of a nominee service varies based on the state, the provider, and the specific role the nominee undertakes. Expect annual fees to range from $500 to $1,500. Some providers may offer a bundled service that includes registered agent services.

These costs are in addition to your annual state filing fees and registered agent fees. Evaluate the privacy benefits against the recurring expenses to determine if this strategy aligns with your business goals.

A nominee agreement is non-negotiable. This document formally outlines the nominee's duties, limitations, and the fact that they act purely on your instruction. It specifies that you are the true beneficial owner and that the nominee holds no economic interest.

Ensure the agreement includes clear provisions for termination, indemnity, and dispute resolution. This legal framework protects both parties and clarifies the nominee's lack of control or ownership.

Both Delaware and Wyoming are popular for non-resident LLCs due to their business-friendly laws and relative privacy. Wyoming, for instance, does not require member or manager names on the initial formation documents, offering strong statutory privacy.

Delaware also maintains a high degree of privacy, especially for members. A nominee service can enhance these existing protections by acting as the initial organizer or other publicly listed role, adding an extra layer of separation.