Welcome to Inkle Incorporate Help Center

How long does it take to form a company on Inkle Incorporate?

Timeline to create a company on Inkle Incorporate

Will my US company be eligible for accelerator programs like YC or Techstars?

Yes—Inkle helps you set up a Delaware C-Corp with all the right documents, making your company eligible for top accelerators like YC and Techstars.

Can I issue equity to Indian founders or employees from my US entity?

Yes, you can issue ESOPs to India-based employees through your US entity, but regulatory filings, remittance rules, and tax compliance are required on both sides.

Do I need to get an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)?

An ITIN is usually not needed—your company’s EIN is enough for US tax and banking requirements.

Do I require legal oversight in this process? Do you have recommended law firms to use?

Most founders don’t need a lawyer, but we can connect you with expert legal partners for complex or customized setups.

What is a Delaware C-Corp and why is it the preferred structure for startups?

Why this structure is preferred by founders, investors & more!

Do I need a US Social Security Number to incorporate or open a bank account?

You can incorporate and open a US business bank account without a Social Security Number—your EIN and proper documentation are sufficient.

Why is the Managed 83(b) Election add-on not free?

Filing your 83(b) Election with Clerky's add on service

How do I make an 83(b) election?

An 83(b) election tells the IRS how you’d like to be taxed on shares that are subject to vesting.

How do I maintain my Delaware C-Corp after incorporation?

Maintaining your Delaware C-Corp involves a few key responsibilities to ensure your company remains in good legal standing and avoids penalties

What are the tax implications of having a US entity and an Indian entity?

Tax implications founders should be aware of while operating in both countries.

What are the ODI regulations with regards to US Incorporation?

Overseas Direct Investment (ODI) regulations

Is Inkle Incorporate compliant with Indian FEMA regulations?

Do you assist with both US entity and Indian entity formation?

US and India incorporation through Inkle Incorporation

I’ve never lived in the US. Does that affect my ability to register a US company?

You can set up a US company as an Indian, FEMA-compliant for Indian founders.

Can I operate in the US market as an Indian company, or do I need a US entity?

Operating in the US market as an Indian company.

How does a non-US taxpayer make an 83(b) election?

Startup attorneys recommend non-US taxpayers file an 83(b) election for potential tax benefits if they move to the US, with tax advisor consultation advised.‍

Typical allocation of shares at formation

Startups usually authorize 10 million shares, allocating most to founders while reserving some for future awards and maintaining flexibility.

Founders payment for shares process

The stock purchase agreement details payment methods for founders, recommending U.S. dollars and proper documentation, while consulting an attorney.

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FAQs

Is Inkle a law firm?

No, Inkle is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. For legal matters, we recommend consulting a licensed U.S. attorney.

What’s not included in the base package?

India LLP or subsidiary formation
Apostille services (if required)
Fundraising documents
Stock plan adoption
Attorney fees/advice
Mailroom & post-incorporation services

What are lifetime docs and post-incorporation maintenance?

These include ongoing compliance support, charter amendments, NDAs, foreign qualifications, and more, ensuring your business remains in good standing.

Do I need a lawyer for incorporation?

No, our assisted service eliminates the need for expensive legal consultations. However, if you need legal advice, Clerky offers an optional attorney collaboration portal.

What’s included in the incorporation service?

Entity formation (Delaware C-Corp)
EIN application (Employer Identification Number)
Bank account setup
Registered agent services
Founder stock issuance
Lifetime documentation & compliance support

What’s the difference between Clerky and Stripe Atlas?

Both are trusted incorporation partners, but they offer different features:

Clerky – Best for founders needing flexibility in share issuance, add-ons like SAFEs and stock plans, and an attorney collaboration portal.

Stripe Atlas – Best for ease of use, fixed share issuance, and perks like cashless founder stock purchase and massive Stripe discounts.

Can India-resident founders use this service?

Yes! India-resident founders should use the other tab to incorporate their US entity.

What do we need to start my incorporation on Inkle Incorporate?

Our team will assist you every step of the way. Before we kickstart your incorporation process with Inkle, please prepare the following information:

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Brand Name: What will your company be called?
Entity Name: What will your company be registered as?
Incorporator Name: This can be anyone.
Incorporator Email
U.S. Mobile Number
Indian LLPs/RPs: One for each founder.

What ongoing support does Inkle provide after incorporation?

We offer post-incorporation maintenance services, including compliance tracking, bookkeeping assistance, and tax filing support.

How long does the incorporation process take?

The timeline can vary based on several factors but typically ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on your specific needs and structure.

What documents do I need to get started?

You will need basic information such as your company name, incorporator details, and any existing business entities in India.

Is Inkle Incorporate compliant with Indian regulations?

Yes, Inkle Incorporate is one of the only platforms for US incorporation compliant with Indian FEMA regulations

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to incorporate my business?

No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to incorporate in the United States; our services cater to entrepreneurs of all geographies.

What is Inkle Incorporate?

Inkle Incorporate is a platform that simplifies the incorporation process for startups, particularly for Indian founders looking to establish businesses in the U.S.

Still have questions?

Reach out to our support team if you have any additional questions regarding filing.