Accounting in the USA: What Brazilian entrepreneurs need to know to succeed.

Logic Accounting June 26, 2025

Expanding a business to the United States is a dream for many Brazilian entrepreneurs—and rightfully so. The country offers economic stability, a large consumer market, and great opportunities.
But to guarantee success, it's essential to understand the accounting in the USA, its rules, taxation, and how to avoid tax risks.

In this complete guide, you will learn:

  • How does American accounting work?

  • What are the main taxes in the USA?

  • The differences between LLC, Corporation, and other structures.

  • How to optimize your financial management.

  • And how having expert help can save you time and money.

How does accounting work in the US?

American accounting follows the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Unlike Brazil, where we use IFRS and focus on tax compliance, in the US accounting is more geared towards... financial management e strategic decision.

📌 Key points:

  • Regulation by bodies such as IRS (American Internal Revenue Service)

  • Federal, state, and local obligations

  • Specific rules for immigrants and foreign companies.

Business structure in the US: Which one to choose?

The company structure defines how you will be taxed and what your legal responsibilities will be. Here are the main ones:

  • LLC (Limited Liability Company): Popular among foreigners. Protects personal assets and offers tax flexibility.

  • Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp): Ideal for companies seeking investors and scale.

  • Sole Proprietorship: Simpler, but with greater risks.

  • Partnership: Partnerships between shareholders, with a clear division of responsibilities.

💡 Practical example:
João, a Brazilian citizen, chose to open an LLC in the US. This allowed him to separate his personal tax identification number (CPF) from the company's debts and gave him more tax freedom—paying less in taxes.

Key accounting reports required

Solid management in the US requires monitoring three basic reports:

  1. Balance Sheet

  2. Income Statement

  3. Cash Flow Statement

These reports help in making decisions, anticipating crises, and avoiding surprises with the IRS.

Taxes in the US: What will you pay?

In the United States, the tax burden varies by type of business and state. The main taxes are:

  • Corporate Income Tax: 21% (federal) on company profit

  • Sales Tax: Similar to the Brazilian ICMS tax, it varies from state to state.

  • Payroll Tax: payroll tax

  • Self-Employment Tax: for self-employed individuals and partners who withdraw a pro-labore payment.

  • State Taxes: varying state taxes

🔎 Practical tip:
Carlos, the owner of a tech startup, opened his company in Florida — where there is no state income tax. This saved him thousands of dollars a year.

 Financial control in the USA: The secret to growth

More than just paying taxes, your company needs to efficient financial management. Good control allows for:

  • Anticipating crises and keeping the company healthy.

  • Improve profit margin

  • Reduce errors, waste, and fines.

  • Having clarity to make strategic decisions.

 How does accounting work in practice?

  • Bookkeeping: It's a daily record of transactions. Essential and mandatory.

  • Reports and compliance: The company must submit the correct documents on time.

  • Accounting for immigrants: It requires extra attention. Having an accountant who understands both scenarios (Brazil vs. USA) is a key advantage.

 How Logic can help your business grow in the US.

A Logic Business Consulting We have a team specializing in American accounting. With us, your company can:

✅ Choosing the ideal tax structure
✅ Reduce the tax burden legally
✅ Ensure compliance with the IRS
✅ Optimize your reports and cash flow

Ready to begin?

Expanding into the US could be the most important step for your company — if it's well planned.

📲 Speak to Logic now and discover how to safely open or legalize your business in the United States.

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