By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
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
Select your state to see exact filing fees, processing time, and requirements.
| 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+ |
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
Your operating agreement should cover these key sections:
LLC name, principal office, purpose, duration, registered agent
Member names, ownership percentages, capital contributions
Member-managed vs manager-managed, voting rights, authority levels
How profits/losses are allocated, distribution schedule, tax elections
Buy-sell provisions, right of first refusal, approval requirements
Events triggering dissolution, winding up procedures, asset distribution
Customizable template with state-specific provisions
Receive a complete state-specific LLC formation checklist and timeline. No spam.
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