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LLC Cost Calculator

Calculate the real cost to form and maintain an LLC in any state, including filing fees, registered agent, and annual requirements.

Optional Services

First Year Total Cost
$340
Delaware LLC formation
State Filing Fee$90
Registered Agent (year 1)$100
Operating Agreement$150
Annual Renewal
$400
State Annual Fee
$300
5-Year Total
$1,940
→ Compare LLC vs Corporation costs→ S-Corp vs LLC tax comparison

How Much Does It Cost to Form an LLC in 2025?

Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the most popular ways to structure a small business in the United States. The total cost depends heavily on your state of formation, whether you use a registered agent service, and whether you hire an attorney.

State Filing Fees

Every state requires you to file Articles of Organization (or Certificate of Organization) and pay a filing fee. This one-time fee ranges from $35 in Montana to $500 in Massachusetts. Most states charge between $50 and $200.

Annual / Renewal Fees

Most states require an annual report and fee to keep your LLC in good standing. These range from $0 (Arizona, Missouri, New Mexico) to $800 (California). Delaware charges $300/year for LLCs.

Hidden Costs to Watch For

  • California Franchise Tax: $800 minimum per year, regardless of revenue
  • New York Publication Requirement: New LLCs must publish formation notice in two newspapers — can cost $500–$2,000
  • Foreign LLC Registration: If you form in Delaware but operate in California, you pay fees in both states
  • Business Licenses: Most businesses need local/state business licenses ($25–$500)

DIY vs. Using a Formation Service

You can form an LLC yourself by filing directly with the state secretary of state website. This saves money but requires you to understand the forms. Online formation services like ZenBusiness or Northwest charge $0–$200 plus state fees. Attorneys charge $500–$2,000 for simple LLCs.

Best States for LLC Formation

Wyoming and New Mexico are popular for small businesses due to low fees, no annual report fees, and strong privacy laws.Delaware is preferred by VC-backed startups. For most small businesses, forming in your home state is the most practical choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to form an LLC?

LLC formation costs vary by state. Filing fees range from $35 (Montana) to $500 (Massachusetts). Add registered agent fees ($100/yr), operating agreement ($0–$200), and EIN (free) for a full picture.

What is the cheapest state to form an LLC?

Kentucky ($40 filing fee), Montana ($35), and New Mexico ($50 with no annual report) are among the cheapest. Wyoming ($100 filing, $52/year) is popular for its strong privacy laws and asset protection.

Do I need a registered agent for my LLC?

Yes. Every LLC must designate a registered agent in its state of formation. You can serve as your own if you have a physical address in that state, or hire a service for ~$100/year.

Should I form my LLC in Delaware?

Delaware is ideal for venture-backed startups. For most small businesses operating in one state, forming locally is cheaper and simpler — otherwise you pay fees in two states.

What ongoing costs does an LLC have?

Annual fees range from $0 to $800 depending on state. Add registered agent ($100–$300/yr), accountant fees, and any required business licenses. Budget $200–$1,500/year total for most LLCs.

State filing fees current as of 2025. Annual fees and requirements subject to change. Consult a business attorney for legal advice. Sources: State Secretary of State websites.