How to Apply for Shopify Payments with a US LLC

Category: Shopify | Reading Time: 4 min

How to Apply for Shopify Payments with a US LLC

Applying for Shopify Payments using a US LLC allows non-resident e-commerce founders to eliminate external transaction fees and offer integrated checkout experiences, including Shop Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. Because Shopify Payments is powered by Stripe underwriting, successful approval requires submitting compliant US company documentation and transparent owner verification.

Essential Eligibility and Document Requirements

To qualify for Shopify Payments through an American business entity, you must assemble the following verification records:

  • US LLC Formation Documents: Filed Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation confirming your entity's active legal standing.
  • IRS Employer Identification Number: Official IRS documentation (Form CP 575 or 147C) verifying the company's EIN and exact legal name.
  • US Commercial Business Address: A legitimate commercial physical address in the United States. Shopify flags virtual mail drops and residential forwarding services during risk review.
  • US Business Checking Account: A corporate bank account held in the exact name of your LLC at a recognized US institution (such as Mercury, Relay, or a physical US commercial bank).
  • Individual Identity Verification: A valid government-issued passport for the primary business owner. When prompted for an SSN, non-residents can often provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or undergo specialized document review.

Step-by-Step Setup in Shopify Admin

Complete the setup process through these structured stages:

  1. Configure General Settings: In Shopify Admin > Settings > General, update your legal business name to match your LLC formation documents and enter your US commercial business address.
  2. Activate Shopify Payments: Navigate to Settings > Payments and select "Activate Shopify Payments".
  3. Submit Business Details: Choose your business entity type (LLC), enter your Federal Tax ID (EIN), and input your US corporate bank routing and account numbers.
  4. Submit Personal Identity: Enter your full legal name, date of birth, home address, and upload your passport when requested.
  5. Review and Underwriting: Maintain active inventory, clear refund policies, and functioning terms of service on your site to pass underwriting inspection smoothly.

Recommended Compliance and Banking Services

Ensure your company possesses all necessary prerequisites before applying: