Quick Answer
Relay Financial is one of the most flexible US business banking platforms for non-resident LLC owners. Non-US citizens can open a Relay account online with a valid passport, US LLC Articles of Organization, IRS EIN, and an Operating Agreement—with zero monthly maintenance fees and up to 20 sub-checking accounts.
Relay Financial for Non-Residents — US LLC Banking Guide 2026
Discover why Relay Financial has become the go-to banking choice for international founders. Learn how to navigate the application process and what documents you need to get approved swiftly.
Why Relay is Ideal for Non-Residents
Multiple Checking Accounts
Open up to 20 free sub-accounts to segregate taxes, operational expenses, and payroll. Perfect for Profit First methodology.
Virtual & Physical Debit Cards
Issue up to 50 virtual and physical Mastercard debit cards for team members, with international shipping available for non-US founders.
Up to $3M FDIC Coverage
Relay accounts are held at Thread Bank, Member FDIC, providing up to $3,000,000 in deposit insurance coverage through its sweep network — well above the standard $250,000 limit.
Experience With Non-Resident LLCs
Relay accepts applications from non-resident LLCs, including digital agencies, software developers, and e-commerce founders. Every application is reviewed individually and approval is not guaranteed.
Eligibility & Required Documentation
To open a Relay business account as a non-US resident, you will need to prepare a comprehensive KYB (Know Your Business) dossier. HynoGo includes these documents in our LLC formation packages.
- Valid PassportA clear, unexpired scan of the international passport for all beneficial owners (owning 25%+ of the LLC).
- IRS EIN Confirmation (CP575)The official document from the IRS proving your Employer Identification Number.
- Filed Articles of OrganizationState-approved formation documents showing your LLC is active and in good standing.
- Custom Operating AgreementMust detail the ownership structure, explicitly list beneficial owners, and include banking authorization clauses.
- Physical US Address (Optional but Recommended)A legitimate US business address (not just a registered agent) aids significantly in approval.
Step-by-Step Application Walkthrough
Step 1: Form Your US LLC and Obtain an EIN
You must have an active US entity. Use a service like HynoGo to expedite your LLC formation and secure your IRS EIN efficiently.
Step 2: Prepare Your Corporate Dossier
Gather your passport, CP575 EIN letter, Articles of Organization, and a robust Operating Agreement.
Step 3: Apply Online at Relay Financial
Navigate to Relay's website, initiate a business account application, and upload your documents. Clearly describe your business model and customer base.
Step 4: Underwriting Review
Relay's compliance team will review your submission. Respond promptly if they request additional information regarding your international operations.
Relay vs. Mercury vs. Wise vs. Airwallex vs. Payoneer
| Feature | Relay Financial ★ | Mercury | Wise Business | Airwallex | Payoneer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Account Fee | $0 | $0 | $0 ($31 one-time setup) | $0 standard | $0 (fees on withdrawal) |
| FDIC Insurance / Safeguarding | Up to $3M (Thread Bank) | Up to $5M (Choice Financial Group & Evolve Bank & Trust) | Safeguarded e-money (not FDIC) | Safeguarded e-money (not FDIC) | Safeguarded e-money (not FDIC) |
| Sub-Accounts & Virtual Cards | 20 checking accounts, 50 cards | Unlimited virtual cards, 1 primary account | Multi-currency balances, limited cards | Multi-currency balances, borderless cards | Single balance, prepaid card add-on |
| Wire & ACH Fees | Free domestic; intl. fees on Relay Pro | Free ACH & incoming wires; intermediary fees may apply | Free ACH; 0.33%–0.60% FX markup | Free local collections; wholesale FX | Free marketplace receiving; ~2% bank withdrawal |
| Non-Resident Approval Friction | Lower — reviewed case by case | High — strict manual underwriting | Low–Moderate | Moderate — requires trading history | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-US citizen open a Relay Financial account?
Yes, Relay Financial strongly supports non-US citizen business owners. As long as you have a registered US entity (like an LLC), an EIN, and a valid international passport, you can apply online.
Does Relay charge monthly maintenance fees?
No, Relay offers a standard business checking account with zero monthly maintenance fees and no minimum balance requirements.
Do I need to visit the US to open a Relay account?
No, the entire application process for Relay Financial is online. You do not need to visit the United States.
How many sub-accounts can I create with Relay?
Relay allows you to create up to 20 individual checking accounts under one business entity, which is perfect for organizing cash flow and using the Profit First methodology.
Can I get a debit card sent internationally from Relay?
Relay provides both virtual and physical debit cards. Physical cards can be shipped internationally, although delivery times and shipping policies may vary depending on the country.
How long does it take for Relay to approve an application?
If all documents are correctly formatted and submitted, Relay usually processes applications within 2 to 5 business days. Delays often occur if the Operating Agreement or address details are incomplete.
Does Relay integrate with Stripe or PayPal?
Yes, Relay accounts come with standard routing and account numbers, allowing seamless integration with US payment processors like Stripe, PayPal, and Square.
Is Relay better than Mercury for non-residents?
Relay is often considered flexible for non-residents and e-commerce businesses and offers robust sub-account features. Approval is decided by Relay and is never guaranteed.