Is Firstbase worth it for forming a US company in 2026?
Quick answer
For most founders who want a lean, banking-ready US company set up correctly the first time, yes: Firstbase's $399 one-time Start package covers formation, state filing fees, an expedited EIN, and the core legal documents, which is strong value versus doing it piece by piece. As of 2026, confirm the exact price at checkout since pricing changes.
Firstbase is worth it when you value speed and a done-for-you setup over doing everything yourself. The $399 Start package (one-time, as of 2026, confirm at checkout) handles Delaware or Wyoming formation, the state filing fees, an expedited EIN, and essential documents like your operating agreement, bylaws, and stock purchase agreements. It also helps you open a US bank account. For a founder who wants to launch and start operating rather than research forms, that bundle removes real friction.
It is especially worth it for non-residents. You do not need to be a US citizen or resident, or hold a visa or SSN, to own a US LLC or C-Corp, and Firstbase specializes in getting non-residents an EIN without an SSN and pointing them toward banking that accepts foreign founders. Setting that up alone can take weeks of trial and error, so the fee buys a smoother path.
Where it is less clearly worth it: if you are comfortable doing the paperwork yourself and just want the cheapest possible route, Northwest at $39 plus state fees is cheaper, though you handle the EIN and banking on your own. And if you want bookkeeping and tax filing bundled year-round, Doola's subscription may fit better. Firstbase is the lean, one-time-fee pick, not the all-inclusive accounting pick.
To get the best outcome and avoid the complaints you may have read about, protect yourself at checkout: screenshot the order summary, decline any add-ons you did not come for, and note that the registered agent (Agent Autopilot) is sold separately at $299 per year per state, with year-one inclusion not confirmed on their pricing page, so ask directly at checkout. If you later subscribe to anything, calendar the renewal date minus 30 days and cancel inside the dashboard rather than by email.
Bottom line: if you want a real US company, a real IRS EIN letter, and a bank-ready setup without a research project, Firstbase earns its fee for most founders. Read the full breakdown of what is included and the true annual costs before you decide.
Ready to form your US company?
Firstbase handles the formation, expedited EIN, and banking guidance in one flow, including for non-residents. Transparent pricing, and the company is yours to keep.