How to Comply With GDPR as a US-Based Company

Map your EU data flows, implement privacy controls, and build GDPR compliance systems that protect against €20M fines.

1. Map your EU personal data collection points. Audit every system that processes EU resident data: website forms, email lists, customer databases, payment processors, analytics tools. Document what data you collect, where it's stored, and who has access. Most companies find 3-8 unexpected collection points during initial audits.
2. Establish legal basis for each data processing activity. Assign one of six GDPR legal bases to each data use: consent, contract performance, legal obligation, vital interests, public task, or legitimate interests. Document your reasoning for each basis. Consent requires the highest technical controls but legitimate interests covers most B2B operations.
3. Implement required technical controls. Build systems for data subject requests: access, portability, deletion, and rectification. Set up breach detection that alerts within 72 hours. Install consent management for website visitors. Budget $15,000-50,000 annually for compliance software and legal review depending on data volume.
4. Create privacy documentation package. Draft privacy policy, data processing records, breach response procedures, and vendor agreements with GDPR clauses. Appoint a Data Protection Officer if you process sensitive data at scale. Update policies annually and after any significant system changes.
5. Monitor ongoing compliance costs. Track monthly compliance expenses: software subscriptions, legal reviews, staff training, audit costs. Set aside 2-4% of revenue for privacy infrastructure if you derive significant income from EU customers. Non-compliance fines reach €20M or 4% of global revenue.