How to Register a Business in the US from San Marino
Discover the essential steps and key considerations for entrepreneurs in San Marino looking to establish and grow a successful business in the United States, including legal requirements, financial planning, and cultural nuances.
Ready to start your business? Plans starting at $297 + state fees.
Step 1: Benefits of starting your US business from San Marino
Starting a US business from San Marino can offer several distinct advantages. San Marino, known for its high quality of life and favorable tax policies, provides an excellent backdrop for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the vast US market. With its strategic location in Europe, it allows for convenient travel and communication with both European and American partners, facilitating smoother multinational operations. The country’s well-developed financial infrastructure and supportive government policies create a conducive environment for business growth and expansion. Utilizing San Marino as a base, entrepreneurs can leverage these benefits while navigating the complexities of the US market.
Moreover, San Marino’s emphasis on digital transformation and innovation makes it an attractive place for startups and tech-savvy entrepreneurs. The nation’s commitment to fostering a robust digital economy aligns perfectly with the needs of businesses aiming to thrive in the US. By starting a business from San Marino, entrepreneurs can take advantage of the local talent pool, state-of-the-art technological resources, and a business-friendly regulatory framework. This unique combination not only enhances business efficiency but also provides the necessary tools and support to successfully penetrate and compete in the highly competitive US market.
Pros
- Tax advantages for businesses in San Marino, including low corporate tax rates and tax incentives for foreign investors. Strategic location within Europe, providing access to a large market and opportunities for expansion. Stable political environment and strong legal framework, offering a secure business environment for investors.
Cons
- High cost of living and business operations in San Marino may pose financial strain on a US business. San Marino's small population can limit the potential customer base for a US business. Navigating the different legal and tax requirements between the US and San Marino can be complex for a US business.
Step 2: How to start your US business from San Marino
Starting a US business from San Marino involves several key steps. First, you'll need to decide on the type of business entity you want to establish, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Corporation. Once you've made this decision, you should choose a unique business name that complies with US state naming regulations. It's often advisable to check the availability of your chosen name through the relevant state's business database.
Next, you will need to appoint a registered agent with a physical address in the US state where you plan to register your business. The registered agent will handle legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. Then, you will file the necessary formation documents with the state agency, such as the Secretary of State, and pay the required filing fee. After your business is officially registered, you'll need to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to handle tax obligations and open a US bank account. Additionally, ensure compliance with any state-specific licensing and permit requirements relevant to your business activities.
Choose and reserve a name
It's wise to check your LLC name against similar businesses in your area. We include a name check with our formation services and can reserve names for you.
Pick a Registered Agent (RA)
An RA physically receives your LLC's legal notices during normal business hours. Most states require this, including San Marino—but the good news is, we can do it for you.
File a Certificate of Formation
This document contains basic details about your LLC, including its name and address. When we file this for you, it's typically sent to the San Marino Secretary of State.
Preparing an Operating Agreement
This outlines your LLC's rules for everything from decision-making to distributing profits. Though it isn't required in your state, our templates make it easy to prepare one and define your rights.
Get an Employer ID Number (EIN)
An EIN is like a Social Security number for your LLC, and is needed for banking, taxes, and hiring. San Marino LLCs may also have additional post-formation tax and regulatory requirements.
Determine licenses needed
You'll also need to apply for any specific permits or licenses that may be required for compliance, although it's wise to wait until your LLC's formation documents are approved.
Step 3: Opening a Business Bank Account
A business bank account is a separate account that is used exclusively for business transactions. But why is it important to open a business bank account?
Keeping your personal and business finances separate is crucial. A dedicated business bank account allows you to do just that, making it much easier to track your business’s income and expenses. This clear separation translates to simpler tax reporting come tax season.
But the benefits go beyond bookkeeping. Having a separate account can provide legal protection. It establishes your business as a distinct entity from yourself. In the unfortunate event of a lawsuit or bankruptcy, this separation can help shield your personal assets from business liabilities.
Furthermore, a business bank account can boost your credibility and project professionalism.
It demonstrates to clients and vendors that you take your business seriously and are committed to maintaining accurate financial records. This can be especially important in establishing trust with potential partners.
Finally, a business bank account is essential for accepting payments, even if you utilize a merchant account. Whether you use doola or another service, funneling those customer funds into a dedicated business account is necessary.
doola partners with banks that allow you to open a bank account remotely from anywhere in the world, like Mercury. Shop around and compare different banks’ fees and services.
Look for a bank that offers the features you need, such as online banking, mobile banking, or overdraft protection.
You may also want to consider working with a bank that specializes in small business banking.
Step 4: Understanding Your Compliance Requirements in San Marino
Understanding Compliance Requirements for Running a US Business in San Marino
San Marino offers unique opportunities for US-based businesses looking to expand their operations internationally. However, understanding and adhering to compliance requirements is crucial for seamless business operation. This article outlines key considerations for US businesses operating in San Marino.
1. Legal Structures
San Marino provides different types of business entities. Choosing the correct legal structure can impact tax liabilities, operational flexibility, and regulatory requirements. Common structures include:
- Limited Liability Companies (LLC): Ideal for small to medium-sized operations.
- Partnerships: Suitable for businesses involving multiple stakeholders.
- Corporations: For larger, more complex business models seeking robust legal standing.
2. Registration and Licensing
Before initiating operations, US businesses must register their entity with San Marino's companies registry. Compliance requires securing appropriate licenses relevant to the business activities. Often this includes:
- Trade Licenses
- Health and Safety Permits
- Employment Permits
3. Taxation
Taxation laws in San Marino can differ significantly from the US. Key tax considerations include:
- Corporate Tax: San Marino imposes a corporate tax rate that businesses must comply with.
- VAT: A value-added tax (VAT) applies to most goods and services.
- Personal Income Tax: This affects US employees working in San Marino.
4. Employment Law
Compliance with local employment laws is essential. These laws cover:
- Hiring Practices: Ensure fair recruitment processes.
- Worker Rights: Maintain standards for wages, hours, and working conditions.
- Termination Procedures: Follow legal guidelines for employee dismissal.
5. Data Protection and Privacy
San Marino has stringent data protection regulations in line with the GDPR. Businesses must:
- Secure Data: Implement robust measures to protect personal and business data.
- Compliance with GDPR: Ensure all data handling aligns with GDPR standards.
6. Intellectual Property
Protecting intellectual property (IP) is vital. San Marino provides avenues to register trademarks, patents, and copyrights. Steps include:
- Registering IP: Submit applications with relevant San Marino authorities.
- Monitoring for Infringements: Act promptly against unauthorized use of IP.
7. Financial Reporting
Accurate financial record-keeping and reporting are mandatory. Businesses must:
- Follow GAAP or IFRS: Adhere to accepted accounting principles.
- Annual Audits: Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance.
By understanding and adhering to these compliance requirements, US businesses can successfully navigate the regulatory landscape of San Marino and thrive in this unique business environment.
doola offers a Total Compliance package, including bookkeeping services, to help you stay on top of your compliance requirements. This ensures your business operates smoothly and adheres to all legal and regulatory standards.
Step 5: Understanding Your Tax Obligations in San Marino
Understanding Tax Obligations for Running a US Business in San Marino
Running a US business while residing or operating in San Marino involves several unique tax considerations. This article highlights key aspects that business owners need to understand to ensure compliance and optimize their tax strategies.
1. Bilateral Tax Agreements
San Marino and the United States have not signed any comprehensive tax treaty to avoid double taxation. This means US business owners in San Marino need to be cognizant of the tax obligations in both jurisdictions.
2. Foreign Income Reporting
US citizens and residents are required to report their global income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), regardless of where they reside. This includes income earned from business operations in San Marino.
3. Foreign Bank Account Reporting (FBAR)
If your business in San Marino requires you to hold a foreign bank account, and the total value of all your foreign financial accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the year, you must file a Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR).
4. Controlled Foreign Corporation (CFC) Rules
If your US business owns more than 50% of a foreign corporation in San Marino, that corporation may be considered a Controlled Foreign Corporation (CFC). This classification may lead to additional reporting and tax obligations under the IRS’s CFC rules.
5. Local San Marino Taxes
San Marino has its own tax system, which includes corporate income tax, VAT, and other local taxes. US business owners must ensure compliance with local tax laws and regulations.
- Corporate Income Tax: San Marino levies a corporate income tax on income generated within its territory.
- Value Added Tax (VAT): Transactions within San Marino may be subject to VAT, which must be collected and remitted to the local tax authorities.
- Other Taxes: There may be additional local taxes such as property taxes or municipal fees depending on the nature of the business operations.
6. Tax Credits and Deductions
To mitigate the impact of double taxation, the US tax system allows certain foreign tax credits and deductions. US business owners can claim credits for taxes paid to San Marino to reduce their US tax liability.
7. Professional Advice
Navigating the tax obligations for a US business operating in San Marino can be complex. Consulting with tax professionals who are well-versed in both US and San Marino tax laws is highly recommended to ensure compliance and optimize tax strategies.
By understanding and addressing these considerations, US business owners can effectively manage their tax obligations while operating in San Marino.
It’s a good idea to consult with a tax professional or an accountant (or to hire these roles in-house) to make sure you’re not missing anything.
doola's Total Compliance package can handle your tax filings for you, ensuring you remain compliant with federal, state, and local tax requirements.
Step 6: How doola Can Assist
doola simplifies the incorporation and setup process for your company, ensuring you’re ready to charge customers, hire your team, and raise funds as quickly as possible.
Fill out your company details in the doola form in less than 10 minutes. Then, we’ll incorporate your company in any of the 50 US states, get your IRS tax ID (EIN) for you, and file your 83(b) tax election if needed.
doola can also help you open a bank account and start accepting payments even before the IRS assigns your tax ID.
doola founders also gain access to exclusive discounts at leading software partners, one-click onboarding with select partners, and free CPA consultations.
The doola Application
It takes less than 10 minutes to fill out the details of your new company. You’ll choose your company structure (C corporation, limited liability company) and pick a company name.
Our instant company name checker will let you know if it’s available before you submit your application. You’ll add an address and phone number and review and sign your EIN SS4 letter in one click.
Forming the Company
doola will review your application and file your formation documents in the state within one business day. doola charges $297 for our Starter Plan and your first year of registered agent services (a state compliance requirement), and $297 each year thereafter to maintain your registered agent.
You can also opt for our Total Compliance plan.
Getting Your IRS Tax ID (EIN)
After your formation in the state is complete, doola will file for your company’s IRS tax ID. Founders who provide a US Social Security number, US address, and US phone are eligible for expedited processing. All other users will receive standard processing.
For standard orders, doola will fax your form SS4 to the IRS and then call the IRS to retrieve the EIN for you to expedite the process if we can, using real-time IRS data to determine when your filing is likely to be available.
Filing Your 83(b) Tax Election
Many startup founders choose to file an 83(b) tax election to potentially save on future personal taxes. doola can file and mail your 83(b) tax election in one click for both US and non-US founders — no trip to the post office required.
We’ll file it using USPS Certified Mail with tracking, and you’ll get a copy of your signed 83(b) election and proof of filing in your Dashboard.
Partner Perks and Discounts
doola partners with a range of third-party tools to offer special pricing or access to founders. We offer discounts on engineering, tax and finance, compliance, and operations tools, including Amazon Web Services.
doola also partners with Mercury to provide faster, automatic onboarding using your doola company information so you can get ready to bank and fundraise even faster.
Founders may also access discounts on other doola products, including up to one year of free credits toward payment processing.
Read our guides for startup founders, or learn more about doola and how we can help you set up your new business quickly and easily.
Turn your entrepreneurship dream into reality today!
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information, however the information provided here are just guidelines. Please speak with a tax and compliance professional in your country
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Formation & EIN filings, RA service, Operating Agreement, and regular compliance reminders.
State fee not included.
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Total Compliance
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Formation with Expedited processing, Annual State filings, IRS Tax filings, a dedicated Account Manager and a free CPA consultation.
State fee not included.
Each state charges a one-time formation fee. Your state fee will vary depending on the state you form in. Not sure which state to choose? Take our quiz →
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See what people say about doola on
Y Combinator
YC S20's @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for US and non-US residents to launch a US LLC, DAO LLC, and C Corp — and today they're sharing their company formation API with the world, to enable businesses big and small to create a company from the command line.
Ankur Nagpal
You can programmatically create a company or DAO using their API Programmatically create a business, get an EIN, get a US bank account, process payments, file taxes & more Perfect for any “business in a box” startup
Jose Rosado
Thanks to the @StartPackHQ for helping me with this process. Check them out 👇 https://rosa.do/startpack
Mary Ann Azevedo
.@doolaHQ, which describes itself as a "Business in a box" for SMBs, has raised $3M in a seed round of funding. doola provides company formation, an EIN, a U.S. address and bank account, access to U.S. payments and a tax consultation, among other things.
Ankur Nagpal
The good news: You don't have to be a US resident to start a company in America If you want to start a tech startup, incorporate a C-Corp If you want to freelance or consult with your own business, incorporate a LLC This should be straightforward - use @doolaHQ & you're good
Alex Lieberman
I haven't started a business in 8 years. I had to rediscover the mission critical tools for starting & running a new venture. Here's the stack:LLC registration: @doolaHQ, Trademark filing: @JoshGerben, Domain registration: @GoDaddy, Website: @Shopify, Banking: @mercury, Payments: @stripe, Files: @googledrive, Internal email: @gmail, Extern email: @Mailchimp, Go-to Market: @Kickstarter, Task Management: @asana
Syndicate
8/ We've also teamed with @doolaHQ to enable DAOs on Syndicate to get legal entities and EINs, open fiat bank accounts, submit compliance filings, and issue K-1 tax forms easily and affordably. This is just the beginning of new capabilities we’ll be bringing to DAOs, together.
Elizabeth Yin
Congrats to @HustleFundVC portfolio company Doola (formerly StartPack) on their new round! Thank you for letting us invest
Will Papper
We use @doolahq at @SyndicateDAO
Y Combinator
YC S20's @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for US and non-US residents to launch a US LLC, DAO LLC, and C Corp — and today they're sharing their company formation API with the world, to enable businesses big and small to create a company from the command line.
Ankur Nagpal
You can programmatically create a company or DAO using their API Programmatically create a business, get an EIN, get a US bank account, process payments, file taxes & more Perfect for any “business in a box” startup
Jose Rosado
Thanks to the @StartPackHQ for helping me with this process. Check them out 👇https://rosa.do/startpack
Mary Ann Azevedo
.@doolaHQ, which describes itself as a "Business in a box" for SMBs, has raised $3M in a seed round of funding. doola provides company formation, an EIN, a U.S. address and bank account, access to U.S. payments and a tax consultation, among other things.
Ankur Nagpal
The good news: You don't have to be a US resident to start a company in America. If you want to start a tech startup, incorporate a C-Corp If you want to freelance or consult with your own business, incorporate a LLC This should be straightforward - use @doolaHQ & you're good
Alex Lieberman
I haven't started a business in 8 years. I had to rediscover the mission critical tools for starting & running a new venture. Here's the stack:LLC registration: @doolaHQ, Trademark filing: @JoshGerben, Domain registration: @GoDaddy, Website: @Shopify, Banking: @mercury, Payments: @stripe, Files: @googledrive, Internal email: @gmail, Extern email: @Mailchimp, Go-to Market: @Kickstarter, Task Management: @asana
Syndicate
8/ We've also teamed with @doolaHQ to enable DAOs on Syndicate to get legal entities and EINs, open fiat bank accounts, submit compliance filings, and issue K-1 tax forms easily and affordably. This is just the beginning of new capabilities we’ll be bringing to DAOs, together.
Elizabeth Yin
Congrats to @HustleFundVC portfolio company Doola (formerly StartPack) on their new round! Thank you for letting us invest
Will Papper
We use @doolahq at @SyndicateDAO
Hustle Fund
Congrats team @doolaHQ! Ya'll ship so well and are continue to make company formation a snap. Appreciate being on this journey with you!
dharmesh
Love the work that @DoolaHQ is doing. Aligns with my philosophy of addressing the "talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not" issue. More startups everywhere = good for everyone.
Aditya Mohanty
Was blown away seeing how easy @doolaHQ makes it to start an entity in the US, completely online. If you're planning to build from India for the world, definitely watch out for this team 🔥
Y Combinator
YC S20’s @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for U.S. and non-U.S. residents to launch a U.S. LLC and C Corp — and today they're launching full support for DAO LLCs, bridging web3 and web2:
Sahil Bloom
💥Investment Announcement💥 Excited to invest in @doolaHQ! A business-in-a-box platform enabling founders from anywhere in the world to start their dream US business. Proud to be an investing alongside @NexusVP @ycombinator @dharmesh @ankurnagpal @anothercohen, and more!
Alex Lieberman
I love businesses that go long growth of entrepreneurship. @tryramp for startup spending, @doola for business formation, @carta for equity management and @Rippling for HR & IT
Eric Bahn
I recommend bookmarking this if you start to get serious about angel investing. LLC structures have some great benefits, thank you @arjunmahadevan for the awesome explainer here!
Rohun
you should be able to "start a business" without having to worry about LLCs, bank accounts, taxes, and bookkeeping. my friend, @arjunmahadevan is building this with @doolaHQ here's why it's a great biz and you should use them for the next LLC you form.
Hustle Fund
Congrats team @doolaHQ! Ya'll ship so well and are continue to make company formation a snap. Appreciate being on this journey with you!
dharmesh
Love the work that @DoolaHQ is doing. Aligns with my philosophy of addressing the "talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not" issue. More startups everywhere = good for everyone.
Aditya Mohanty
Was blown away seeing how easy @doolaHQ makes it to start an entity in the US, completely online. If you're planning to build from India for the world, definitely watch out for this team 🔥
Y Combinator
YC S20’s @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for U.S. and non-U.S. residents to launch a U.S. LLC and C Corp — and today they're launching full support for DAO LLCs, bridging web3 and web2:
Sahil Bloom
💥Investment Announcement💥 Excited to invest in @doolaHQ! A business-in-a-box platform enabling founders from anywhere in the world to start their dream US business. Proud to be an investing alongside @NexusVP @ycombinator @dharmesh @ankurnagpal @anothercohen, and more!
Alex Lieberman
I love businesses that go long growth of entrepreneurship. @tryramp for startup spending, @doola for business formation, @carta for equity management and @Rippling for HR & IT
Eric Bahn
I recommend bookmarking this if you start to get serious about angel investing. LLC structures have some great benefits, thank you @arjunmahadevan for the awesome explainer here!
Rohun
you should be able to "start a business" without having to worry about LLCs, bank accounts, taxes, and bookkeeping. my friend, @arjunmahadevan is building this with @doolaHQ here's why it's a great biz and you should use them for the next LLC you form.
Y Combinator
YC S20's @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for US and non-US residents to launch a US LLC, DAO LLC, and C Corp — and today they're sharing their company formation API with the world, to enable businesses big and small to create a company from the command line.
Hustle Fund
Congrats team @doolaHQ! Ya'll ship so well and are continue to make company formation a snap. Appreciate being on this journey with you!
Ankur Nagpal
You can programmatically create a company or DAO using their API Programmatically create a business, get an EIN, get a US bank account, process payments, file taxes & more Perfect for any “business in a box” startup
dharmesh
Love the work that @DoolaHQ is doing. Aligns with my philosophy of addressing the "talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not" issue. More startups everywhere = good for everyone.
Jose Rosado
Thanks to the @StartPackHQ for helping me with this process.Check them out 👇 https://rosa.do/startpack
Aditya Mohanty
Was blown away seeing how easy @doolaHQ makes it to start an entity in the US, completely online. If you're planning to build from India for the world, definitely watch out for this team 🔥
Mary Ann Azevedo
.@doolaHQ, which describes itself as a "Business in a box" for SMBs, has raised $3M in a seed round of funding. doola provides company formation, an EIN, a U.S. address and bank account, access to U.S. payments and a tax consultation, among other things.
Y Combinator
YC S20’s @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for U.S. and non-U.S. residents to launch a U.S. LLC and C Corp — and today they're launching full support for DAO LLCs, bridging web3 and web2:
Ankur Nagpal
The good news: You don't have to be a US resident to start a company in America If you want to start a tech startup, incorporate a C-Corp If you want to freelance or consult with your own business, incorporate a LLC This should be straightforward - use @doolaHQ & you're good
Sahil Bloom
💥Investment Announcement💥 Excited to invest in @doolaHQ! A business-in-a-box platform enabling founders from anywhere in the world to start their dream US business. Proud to be an investing alongside @NexusVP @ycombinator @dharmesh @ankurnagpal @anothercohen, and more!
Alex Lieberman
I haven't started a business in 8 years. I had to rediscover the mission critical tools for starting & running a new venture. Here's the stack:LLC registration: @doolaHQ, Trademark filing: @JoshGerben, Domain registration: @GoDaddy, Website: @Shopify, Banking: @mercury, Payments: @stripe, Files: @googledrive, Internal email: @gmail, Extern email: @Mailchimp, Go-to Market: @Kickstarter, Task Management: @asana
Alex Lieberman
I love businesses that go long growth of entrepreneurship. @tryramp for startup spending, @doola for business formation, @carta for equity management and @Rippling for HR & IT
Syndicate
8/ We've also teamed with @doolaHQ to enable DAOs on Syndicate to get legal entities and EINs, open fiat bank accounts, submit compliance filings, and issue K-1 tax forms easily and affordably.This is just the beginning of new capabilities we’ll be bringing to DAOs, together.
Eric Bahn
I recommend bookmarking this if you start to get serious about angel investing. LLC structures have some great benefits, thank you @arjunmahadevan for the awesome explainer here!
Elizabeth Yin
Congrats to @HustleFundVC portfolio company Doola (formerly StartPack) on their new round! Thank you for letting us invest
Rohun
you should be able to "start a business" without having to worry about LLCs, bank accounts, taxes, and bookkeeping. my friend, @arjunmahadevan is building this with @doolaHQ here's why it's a great biz and you should use them for the next LLC you form.
Will Papper
We use @doolahq at @SyndicateDAO
Why should I get an LLC and a business bank account?
Forming an LLC and opening a business bank account are essential steps to protect your personal assets and streamline your finances. An LLC limits your personal liability in case of legal or financial issues, while a business bank account helps you separate personal and business finances, making tax preparation easier and ensuring a more professional image for your business.
Do I need to be a US citizen to work with doola?
No, you don’t! We work with entrepreneurs from around the world to get their businesses incorporated. Don’t take our word for it, though; check out our TrustPilot Page to hear what people globally have to say about doola.
What is an LLC (Limited Liability Company)?
A limited liability company is a formal business structure (created as per state law) where the business is legally distinct from the owner(s). It may have a single owner in the case of a Single-Member LLC or multiple owners in the case of a Multi-Member LLC.
An LLC combines the perks of a corporation (protection against personal liability) and a partnership (pass-through taxation). Since the business has a separate legal existence, the members are not personally liable for the debts and obligations of the Company.
State laws stipulate how LLCs should be incorporated. Some states require specific documents, such as the articles of organization, membership agreement, etc., to be filed with the authorities.
Learn more about LLCs and how they work in FREE ebook.
What information do you need from me to get started?
We don't need any documents to get started. We just need a few pieces of info from you:
- Your Company Name
- Your Personal Address
- Phone Number and Email (For contact purposes)
Later in the process, you'll need a passport to set up your bank account.
What is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number is the tax identification number for your organization and a requirement of many banks or institutions (such as the IRS) to carry out business in the US. Once your EIN is acquired, you can apply for business bank accounts and payment gateways. Learn more about the full process.
What is an ITIN?
An Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) can be used as an alternative for a Social Security Number (SSN) in some cases and is not a requirement in most cases. However, you will be required to have one if you wish to apply for a PayPal account or certain bank accounts. We walk you through how this process looks like in our guide!
Still have a question?
Schedule a free consultation with an expert from doola, today.
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