US Phone Number

Does a non-resident need a US Phone Number to start an LLC?

Short Answer: No

Long Answer (Read below):

As a non-resident, you can easily obtain a VoIP number, but these numbers are not as useful as non-VoIP numbers.

The usability of VoIP numbers varies - most cannot be used with WhatsApp, Telegram, and many other services, with only a few exceptions.

However, a VoIP number can make and receive calls and SMS.

There are many providers offering these numbers, with prices ranging from less than a dollar a month upward.

Some services provide non-VoIP numbers, but expect to pay significantly more for such a service.

Almost everywhere you sign up, you'll need to go through a KYC (Know Your Customer) process.

They won't give you a phone number without verifying your identity for compliance and spam prevention reasons.

So, you don't strictly need a US phone number to start an LLC.

There's no significant difference in core offerings between VoIP providers. They all provide a VoIP number; those with extra add-on features are pricier than others.

Aside from a VoIP number, if you just need a US phone number for Stripe or just for the sake of having one, you can use Twilio instead. Get a number from Twilio and set up a webhook to play an automated message whenever someone calls that number. While this would prevent someone from talking to you directly, you can still guide them through the automated message to email you instead!

And if you need to make calls to the US or elsewhere, you can also check out Viber Out, which uses a credit-based system to make cheap calls — but your phone number would be different from the one you'd use with Twilio.

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Disclaimer: All content here is for general informational purposes only and not intended as legal, tax, or financial advice. Always consult a qualified professional before taking any action. Use at your own risk; the author assumes no liability.