How Much Does an LLC Cost in Every State (2024 Guide)

Choosing an LLC is a popular option for entrepreneurs due to its flexibility and liability protection. It separates your personal assets from your business ventures, offering peace of mind as you launch your dream.

But before you dive into the exciting world of business ownership, it’s important to understand the associated costs.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the fees you’ll encounter throughout the LLC formation and maintenance process.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear picture of the financial investment required to establish and operate your LLC in 2024.

What Is an LLC Filing Fee?

• A one-time fee paid to the state is called the filing fee of LLC.

• This is not a monthly fee. No state has a monthly LLC fee system.

What Is a Recurring Fee?

• A mandatory recurring fee that is paid directly to the state every year (annually) or every other year (biennially).

• This is to keep your LLC in good standing!

• In most states, if you do not pay this recurring fee, your LLC will get shut down.

Important Note: Lower Fees Does Not Mean You Should Form in That State!

At a high level:

• If you are non-US resident you can choose any state to form your LLC in. For non-US residents, the two most popular states we’ve seen for forming an LLC is Wyoming or Delaware and you can read a nice guide here which compares the pro’s and con’s of forming in each state!

• If you live in the US, it makes the most sense to file an LLC in the state in which you live in / reside in. If you choose a state that isn’t your home state where you reside, then, you might have to do what is called a domestic LLC filing and a Foreign LLC filing which would require you to pay for and effectively maintain the costs = 2 LLCs!

However, at the end of the day, it’s your business, your choice!

Many LLCs do business under a name different from the legal name of the business. That’s commonly called a “DBA” or “assumed name”. Here’s a comprehensive guide to DBA state requirements for all 50 states and U.S. territories.

LLC Filing Costs + Recurring Fees by State

To give you a clearer picture of the ongoing expenses, let’s explore the state-by-state LLC filing costs and the recurring fees associated with maintaining your LLC in each state:

🇺🇸 Alabama

State filing fee is $200. The recurring fee is $100 every year.

🇺🇸 Alaska

State filing fee is $250. The recurring fee is $100 every two years.

🇺🇸 Arizona

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fees is $0 (an informational report does not need to be filed).

🇺🇸 Arkansas

State filing fee is $45. The recurring fee is $150 every year.

🇺🇸 California

State filing fee is $70. The recurring fee is $800 every year and $20 statement of information every 2 years.

🇺🇸 Colorado

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $10 every year.

🇺🇸 Connecticut

State filing fee is $120. The recurring fee is $80 every year.

🇺🇸 Delaware

State filing fee is $160. The recurring fee is $300 franchise tax every year.

🇺🇸 Florida

State filing fee is $125. The recurring fee is $138.75 every year.

🇺🇸 Georgia

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $50 every year.

🇺🇸 Hawaii

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $15 every year.

🇺🇸 Idaho

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report must be filed every year).

🇺🇸 Illinois

State filing fee is $150. The recurring fee is $75 every year.

🇺🇸 Indiana

State filing fee is $97. The recurring fee is $30 every two years.

🇺🇸 Iowa

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $45 every two years.

🇺🇸 Kansas

State filing fee is $160. The recurring fee is $50 every year.

🇺🇸 Kentucky

State filing fee is $40. The recurring fee is $15 every year.

🇺🇸 Louisiana

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $35 every year.

🇺🇸 Maine

State filing fee is $175. The recurring fee is $85 every year.

🇺🇸 Maryland

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $300 every year.

🇺🇸 Massachusetts

State filing fee is $500. The recurring fee is $500 every year.

🇺🇸 Michigan

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $25 every year.

🇺🇸 Minnesota

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report must be filed every year).

🇺🇸 Mississippi

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report must be filed every year).

🇺🇸 Missouri

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report does not need to be filed).

🇺🇸 Montana

State filing fee is $35. The recurring fee is $20 every year.

🇺🇸 Nebraska

State filing fee is $105. The recurring fee is $10 every two years.

🇺🇸 Nevada

State filing fee is $425. The recurring fee is $350 every year.

🇺🇸 New Hampshire

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $100 every year.

🇺🇸 New Jersey

State filing fee is $125. The recurring fee is $75 every year.

🇺🇸 New Mexico

State filing fee is $50. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report does not need to be filed).

🇺🇸 New York

State filing fee is $205. The recurring fee is $9 every two years.

🇺🇸 North Carolina

State filing fee is $125. The recurring fee is $200 every year.

🇺🇸 North Dakota

State filing fee is $135. The recurring fee is $50 every year.

🇺🇸 Ohio

State filing fee is $99. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report does not need to be filed).

🇺🇸 Oklahoma

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $25 every year.

🇺🇸 Oregon

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $100 every year.

🇺🇸 Pennsylvania

State filing fee is $125. The recurring fee is $70 every 10 years.

🇺🇸 Rhode Island

State filing fee is $150. The recurring fee is $50 every year.

🇺🇸 South Carolina

State filing fee is $110. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report does not need to be filed).

🇺🇸 South Dakota

State filing fee is $150. The recurring fee is $50 every year.

🇺🇸 Tennessee

State filing fee is $300. The recurring fee is $300 every year.

🇺🇸 Texas

State filing fee is $300. The recurring fee is $0 (an informational report does not need to be filed).

🇺🇸 Utah

State filing fee is $70. The recurring fee is $20 every year.

🇺🇸 Vermont

State filing fee is $125. The recurring fee is $35 every year.

🇺🇸 Virginia

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $50 every year.

🇺🇸 Washington

State filing fee is $200. The recurring fee is $60 every year.

🇺🇸 Washington DC

State filing fee is $99. The recurring fee is $300 every two years.

🇺🇸 West Virginia

State filing fee is $100. The recurring fee is $25 every year.

🇺🇸 Wisconsin

State filing fee is $130. The recurring fee is $25 every year.

🇺🇸 Wyoming

State filing fee is $103.75. The recurring fee is $60 every year.

Get Started With doola

You can establish and grow a US LLC without even being a US citizen. And yes, you can navigate the process yourself.

But let’s be honest, starting a business involves a lot of moving parts. Wouldn’t it be helpful to have a trusted guide by your side? A partner who ensures your LLC formation is smooth, accurate, and sets you up for success?

Ultimately, the decision is yours. You choose how you launch your US business. doola is here to support you, whether you need a hand with paperwork, setting up US banking, or navigating tax compliance.

Ready to simplify your LLC journey? Answer a few quick questions and let doola handle the rest. Prefer a more personalized approach?

Book a free consultation with one of our experts. We’re here to empower your US business dream!

FAQs

Are LLCs taxed?

Yes, LLCs themselves aren’t taxed on profits. However, the profits “pass through” to the owners and are taxed on their personal tax returns. This is called pass-through taxation.

How can I avoid LLC fees?

While some states have very low filing fees, eliminating all costs isn’t realistic. You’ll likely incur filing fees, annual report fees, and potentially registered agent service fees.

Which state is the cheapest to open an LLC?

Costs vary by state, but Wyoming and Delaware are known for being business-friendly with low fees.

What is the best LLC formation company?

That depends on your needs! doola offers a comprehensive package with features others charge extra for, making it a great value.

Does it really cost $0 to form an LLC?

No. Beware of companies advertising “free” LLC formation. They often charge extra for essential services like filing fees, operating agreements, or registered agent services. At doola, we include these in our packages for a transparent and affordable price.

Do I need a Registered Agent?

Most states require LLCs to have a registered agent. This is an individual or service that accepts legal documents on behalf of your business. doola offers registered agent services.

How do I start an LLC?

The process varies by state, but generally involves filing Articles of Organization with your state’s Secretary of State and creating an Operating Agreement. doola can guide you through the process or handle it for you entirely.