Form your LLC yourself and save $149-299 in service fees. This guide covers all 50 states with exact filing fees, required forms, and step-by-step instructions. Last Updated: March 2026
$50-300
Typical State Filing Fee
$299
LegalZoom Service Fee
3-10 days
Average Processing
Your State LLC Requirements
Select your state to see exact filing fees, processing time, and requirements.
Cost Comparison: DIY vs Services
Service
Service Fee
+ State Fee
Total
This Guide (DIY)
$0
State fee only
State fee only
ZenBusiness
$0-199
+ State fee
$50-500+
Incfile
$0-299
+ State fee
$50-600+
LegalZoom
$79-299
+ State fee
$130-600+
Attorney
$500-2000
+ State fee
$550-2300+
Step-by-Step LLC Formation Process
1Choose Your LLC Name
Your name must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" and be unique in your state. Search your state's business name database (Secretary of State website) to check availability. Consider reserving your name ($10-50 in most states) while you prepare other documents.
2Designate a Registered Agent
Every LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address (not P.O. box) in the state. Options: Be your own agent (free but your address is public), use a registered agent service ($50-300/year), or ask a trusted friend/family member in the state.
3File Articles of Organization
File with your state's Secretary of State office. Most states allow online filing. You'll need: LLC name, registered agent info, member/organizer names, business address, and management structure (member-managed or manager-managed).
4Create an Operating Agreement
While not always legally required, every LLC should have one. It defines: ownership percentages, profit/loss distribution, management roles, voting rights, procedures for adding/removing members, and dissolution procedures.
5Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Apply for free at IRS.gov. Required for: opening a business bank account, hiring employees, filing taxes. Takes about 5 minutes online and you receive your EIN immediately.
6Open a Business Bank Account
Keep business and personal finances separate (this is crucial for liability protection). You'll need: EIN, Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, and government-issued ID. Many banks offer free business checking accounts.
7Get Required Licenses & Permits
Requirements vary by state, county, and industry. Common ones: general business license, professional licenses, sales tax permit, DBA filing (if operating under a different name). Check your state and local government websites.
Operating Agreement Essentials
Your operating agreement should cover these key sections:
1. Organization
LLC name, principal office, purpose, duration, registered agent
2. Members & Ownership
Member names, ownership percentages, capital contributions
3. Management
Member-managed vs manager-managed, voting rights, authority levels
4. Profits & Distributions
How profits/losses are allocated, distribution schedule, tax elections
5. Transfer of Interest
Buy-sell provisions, right of first refusal, approval requirements
6. Dissolution
Events triggering dissolution, winding up procedures, asset distribution
Customizable template with state-specific provisions
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LLC and why should I form one?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a business structure that protects your personal assets from business debts and lawsuits. It offers the liability protection of a corporation with the tax flexibility and simplicity of a sole proprietorship. Most small businesses benefit from LLC protection.
How much does it cost to form an LLC?
State filing fees range from $40 (Kentucky) to $500 (Massachusetts). Most states charge $50-200. Services like LegalZoom charge $149-299 on top of state fees, but you can file yourself for just the state fee using this guide.
Do I need a registered agent?
Yes, every LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation. You can be your own registered agent (free), use a friend or family member, or hire a registered agent service ($50-300/year). The agent receives legal and government documents on behalf of your LLC.
How long does it take to form an LLC?
Processing times vary by state, from same-day (online filing in some states) to 2-4 weeks. Most states process LLC filings within 3-10 business days. Many states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
Do I need an operating agreement?
While not all states legally require one, every LLC should have an operating agreement. It defines ownership percentages, profit distribution, management structure, and procedures for adding or removing members. Banks often require one to open a business account.
What is the best state to form an LLC?
For most small businesses, form your LLC in the state where you do business. Delaware and Wyoming are popular for their business-friendly laws, but forming out-of-state means you may need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state anyway, paying fees in both states.
