New Mexico LLC for Non-Residents: Low Cost and No Annual Report
New Mexico LLCs have no annual report and good privacy. The real costs, pros and cons for foreign founders, how it compares with Wyoming, and when another state is a better fit.
New Mexico is a quiet favourite among cost-conscious founders. It offers one of the cheapest ways to form and keep a US LLC, with good privacy built in. For many solo founders running an online business from abroad, it is an excellent choice. For some, Wyoming or another state fits better.
The key benefits
Low formation cost
The state filing fee is about $50. With UCB, a New Mexico LLC with EIN and first-year registered agent costs $199 all-in.
No annual report for LLCs
New Mexico does not require LLCs to file an annual report or pay an annual state fee. Once formed, your LLC stays active as long as it keeps a registered agent. Over several years, this makes it one of the cheapest states to maintain.
Privacy
Members' names are not required in the public articles of organisation. The registered agent and organiser appear instead.
The trade-offs
- Less familiar to some providers. Banks, fintechs and payment platforms see fewer New Mexico LLCs than Wyoming or Delaware ones, and occasionally ask more questions. In our experience, documents and business profile matter far more than the state.
- Not suited for investment. Investors prefer Delaware corporations. If venture capital is in your plans, see why startups choose Delaware.
- No reminder system. With no annual report, there is no yearly state notice prompting you to look at your company. Federal deadlines still apply.
- Gross receipts tax may apply to business conducted in New Mexico, which is relevant only if you actually do business there.
Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| State filing fee | About $50 |
| Registered agent (year 1) | $50 with UCB |
| Our formation + EIN service | $99 |
| First-year total | $199 |
| Annual state fee | None for LLCs |
| Each following year | Registered agent + federal tax filing |
New Mexico vs Wyoming vs Arizona
| New Mexico | Wyoming | Arizona | |
|---|---|---|---|
| First-year total with UCB | $199 | $249 | $199 |
| Annual report | None | Yes, from $60 | None for LLCs |
| Privacy | Good | Excellent | Moderate |
| Publication requirement | No | No | In some counties |
| Familiarity for banks and platforms | Moderate | High | Moderate |
See Wyoming LLC for non-residents and Arizona vs Wyoming.
Federal obligations remain
New Mexico's low maintenance applies only to the state. A foreign-owned single-member LLC must still file Form 5472 with a pro forma 1120 every year, even with no income, or face a $25,000 penalty. Because New Mexico sends no annual reminders, founders sometimes forget this. See Form 5472 explained and annual requirements.
Who should choose New Mexico?
- Solo founders who want the lowest ongoing state cost.
- Freelancers and consultants with US clients. See US LLC for freelancers.
- Holding companies for online assets.
- Founders who value privacy and simplicity.
Who might prefer another state?
- If you want the most widely recognised low-cost state: Wyoming.
- If you will raise investment: Delaware corporation.
- If you will operate physically in another state: that state.
How UCB helps
We form New Mexico LLCs for non-residents, act as registered agent, obtain the EIN, open your US bank account, and, since New Mexico won't remind you, we remind you of your federal filings. See the New Mexico company formation page.
Want the lowest-maintenance US LLC? WhatsApp us at +91 8105 199 399 or email info@ucbsolutions.com. New Mexico LLC + EIN: $199 all-in.
Let our experts handle it for you
Every business is different. Message us with your country, business type and goals, and we will recommend the right structure, state and package. We do the work; you focus on your business.
This article is general information for non-resident business owners and is not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; contact us to confirm what applies to your situation.
