Hi! Well, this is the thing I’m looking help with from any of you guys:
A partner and I are trying to start running a web hosting business from outside the U.S. (Argentina) and, of course, we are looking forward to operate globally.
Since all of our suppliers will be American companies and noticing that the best (if not the only) way to collect money properly and safely is to operate with a business platform in the States (bank account, merchant account, LLC and otherwise), I’m researching about opening an American merchant bank account which would allow us to receive global credit card payments and withdraw funds via credit card, check exchange or ATM withdraw.
I´ve read most of the posts involving this kinda situations buy I’ve got a new one I’ve not read of. I’m a U.S. citizen but i´ve never actually lived in the U.S. (born abroad and family never went back), so as for the passport and SSN, I’ve got them, but my concerns are about the other requirements in order to open a bank account and particularly a merchant. I’ve got neither address nor credit record in the States. A BofA guy told me that address is no problem since I can use somebody else’s (friend, relative, etc.), but what about the credit record? Will that deny me the chance to open an account? Will creating any kind of Corporation ease things for me? On the other hand, is it possible to get a Business License, Tax ID and even a merchant acc for a business that runs and operates outside the States? Is traveling to America and file things personally the best choice? Are online incorporation companies (such as ParadiseInc.com and others) trust worthy?
Thanks in advance,
Tad

I think your best bet for beginning your business would be using a processor like 2Checkout.. I know some businesses in Costa Rica and Panama who are using it successfully for their processing needs. That will get you off the ground quickly and easily.

why don't you consider rather setting up presence outside US, it would be easier from taxation point of view

With the scenario you describe, it will be pretty difficult to set up either a US merchant account or business bank account. The banks usually prefer you to have a physical location from which you are actually conducting business. Your chances would definitely be enhanced if you could meet with them face-to-face so that they can confirm your identity.

2Checkout or WorldPay could be good alternatives. Or, if you want a direct account, you could apply with a non-US bank. If there isn't a provider in Argentina, you would have to form an incorporation in same country as the bank, but its possible to get pretty competitive rates. Not as low as the US, but probably a lot easier to set-up than a US merchant account.