U.S. Company Compliance Requirements
This page explains the ongoing compliance requirements that apply to U.S. companies after formation, with a focus on administrative obligations relevant to non-U.S. founders.
What Does “Company Compliance” Mean?
Company compliance refers to the obligation of a registered business entity to meet ongoing administrative and reporting requirements imposed by applicable authorities.
In the United States, compliance obligations arise primarily at the state level and the federal level. These obligations exist independently of whether the company is actively operating or generating revenue.
Compliance Is an Ongoing Responsibility
Registering a U.S. company is not a one-time event. After formation, companies must continue to meet recurring requirements to maintain good standing with authorities.
Failure to meet compliance obligations may result in penalties, loss of good standing, or administrative dissolution by the state.
Compliance obligations exist regardless of the company owner’s nationality or place of residence.
State-Level vs Federal Compliance
U.S. company compliance operates on two primary levels: state and federal. Each level has distinct requirements, authorities, and enforcement mechanisms.
State-Level Compliance
State-level compliance obligations arise from the state in which the company is registered. These obligations are defined by state law and administered by state authorities.
Federal-Level Compliance
Federal-level compliance obligations arise primarily through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other federal agencies, depending on company activities.
Annual Reports and Periodic Filings
Most U.S. states require companies to file periodic reports, often annually. These reports typically confirm or update basic company information on record.
The specific filing frequency, deadlines, and content requirements vary by state.
- Company name and registration number
- Registered agent information
- Principal business address
- Names of managers or officers (where required)
Registered Agent Maintenance
Maintaining an active registered agent is an ongoing requirement in most states. The registered agent must remain available at the registered address during business hours.
If a registered agent resigns or changes, the company is responsible for updating the state registry promptly.
A detailed explanation of this role is available here: What is a registered agent?
Address and Record Updates
Companies are required to keep their registered information accurate. This includes updating addresses, registered agent details, and certain management information when changes occur.
Update requirements and deadlines vary by state.
Federal Identification and Reporting
At the federal level, companies are identified primarily through an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
An EIN is used for federal tax reporting and administrative identification purposes.
Further explanation is available here: EIN for non-U.S. founders
Compliance and Entity Type
Compliance obligations may vary depending on the company’s legal structure, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a C-Corporation.
Entity-specific considerations are explained here:
State-Specific Compliance Variations
Compliance requirements are not uniform across all states. Filing frequencies, fees, and reporting content vary.
State-specific compliance considerations are addressed in the following pages:
Compliance vs Business Activity
Compliance obligations exist regardless of whether a company is actively conducting business operations.
A company that is dormant, pre-revenue, or inactive may still be required to file reports and maintain a registered agent.
What Compliance Does Not Include
Administrative compliance should not be confused with legal, tax, or regulatory advice.
- Compliance is not tax planning
- Compliance is not legal interpretation
- Compliance is not immigration authorization
- Compliance does not guarantee regulatory outcomes
Administrative Assistance with Compliance
Administrative assistance providers may support compliance by coordinating filings, monitoring deadlines, and providing reminders based on public requirements.
Such assistance does not replace the company’s legal responsibility to remain compliant.
For an overview of U.S. company registration and administrative structure, see: Registering a business in the United States as a non-resident.
HelvetiaForm’s Administrative Role
HelvetiaForm provides administrative assistance related to ongoing U.S. company compliance. This includes coordination of filings and reminders based on client-provided information.
Information about HelvetiaForm’s Swiss base and operating principles is available here: Swiss-based administrative assistance provider.