Key Takeaways
- In 2026, LLC registration costs can range from $35 to $500, depending on the state.
- Additional LLC costs include registered agent fees, business names, and licenses.
- Forming an LLC provides limited liability protection and separates personal assets from business assets.
- State-specific costs, taxes, and annual fees should be considered when choosing an LLC location.
Registering an LLC allows individuals and groups to conduct business under a different name from their personal names. It is a great way to separate your business’s assets, debts, and liabilities from your individual obligations.
It provides limited liability protection, typically protecting your assets from the business’s debt collectors and lawsuits. Limited liability companies are also easier, faster, and cheaper to form than other business models.
With its many advantages, it’s no wonder that over 21 million LLCs are registered nationwide. Despite this, many enter the venture without calculating the cost and may wind up with a dormant business or unforeseen annual fees.
The cost of starting your LLC may differ from that of the next person. This article discusses how your residence, choice of registered agent, taxes, and other factors can affect the cost of registering and starting your LLC. Let’s begin by defining what an LLC is.
What Is an LLC?
An LLC is a type of business, and the acronym stands for Limited Liability Company. These business models differ from other companies, such as corporations and sole proprietorships, by significantly limiting your legal and financial liabilities to the business.
By registering the company, you are creating a separate entity. Registering it as a limited liability means any grievances against the company do not typically transfer to you.
Start your LLC Operating Agreement now
How Much Does an LLC Cost in 2026?
The cost of starting an LLC changes as states review their requirements. Some states charge more but do not have annual reporting fees or state business taxes. Others may be cheaper to start, but regular costs can quickly add up. Consider all aspects before picking the best location for your business.
So, how much is an LLC? Let’s break down the costs you will incur at each stage.
Business name reservation
You need a business name for your company. Although reserving a name may not be mandatory in your state, it is advisable to avoid duplicating another entity. Booking a name for your company is different from company formation.
Filing the LLC formation documents
If you want to form an LLC, you must file the Articles of Incorporation. The letters LLC, L.L.C., or the words Limited Liability Company must be part of the name.
The mandatory fee for LLC formation differs by state and ranges from $35 in Montana to $500 in Massachusetts.
Here is a table with the required fees for registering a domestic LLC in each state. It also shows the cost of reserving business names. Remember that name reservation may not be a requirement in your state.
Fees and requirements change over time. Use the links provided to view your state's most current regulations. States charge separate fees to register a foreign LLC.
| State | Compulsory LLC Formation Fees
(Certificate of Organization) |
Business Name Reservation (Optional) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $200 | $25 (paper)
$28 (online) |
| Alaska | $250 | $25 |
| Arizona | $50 | $10 (paper)
$45 (online) |
| Arkansas | $45 | $22.50 (online)
$25 (paper) |
| California | $70 | $10 |
| Colorado | $50 | $25 |
| Connecticut | $120 | $60 |
| Delaware | $110 | $75 |
| District of Columbia | $99 | $50 |
| Florida | $125 | N/A |
| Georgia | $100 (online)
$110 (by mail) |
$30 (online)
$35 (paper) |
| Hawaii | $51 | $10 |
| Idaho | $100 (online)
$120 (mail) |
$20 (online)
$40 (paper) |
| Illinois | $150 | $25 |
| Indiana | $98 (online)
$100 (paper) |
$10 |
| Iowa | $50 | $10 |
| Kansas | $160
$165 (paper) |
$30 (online)
$35 (paper) |
| Kentucky | $40 | $15 |
| Louisiana | $100 | $25 |
| Maine | $175 | $20 |
| Maryland | $100 | $25 |
| Massachusetts | $500 | $30 |
| Minnesota | $50 | $35 (mail/in-person)
$55 (online) |
| Mississippi | $50 | $25 |
| Missouri | $105 (paper)
$50 (online) |
$25 |
| Montana | $35 | $10 |
| Nebraska | $100 | $30 |
| Nevada | $75 | $25 |
| New Hampshire | $100 | $15 |
| New Jersey | $125 | $50 |
| New Mexico | $50 | $20 |
| New York | $200 | $20 |
| North Carolina | $125 | $30 |
| North Dakota | $135 | $10 |
| Ohio | $99 | $39 |
| Oklahoma | $100 | $10 |
| Oregon | $100 | $100 |
| Pennsylvania | $125 | $70 |
| Rhode Island | $150 | $50
$52.50 (online) |
| South Carolina | $110 | $25 |
| South Dakota | $150 | $25 |
| Tennessee | $300 | $20 |
| Texas | $300 | $40 |
| Utah | $59 | $22 |
| Vermont | $155 | $20 |
| Virginia | $100 | $10 |
| Washington | $200 | $30 |
| West Virginia | $100 | $15 |
| Wisconsin | $130 | $15 |
| Wyoming | $100 | $60 |
Aside from the Articles of Formation Fees, you may incur the following additional expenses.
Registered agent fees: Every LLC needs a registered agent. The agent's job is to receive legal communication on the company's behalf. Although you, as the business owner, can assume this role, you should be wary of the setbacks. For example, a registered agent's address is public information, meaning if you run your business from home, anyone can access your personal address.
Additionally, registered agents must be available at their address during business hours. That can be inconvenient when you must leave. Many businesses prefer to hire a registered agent instead.
Operating Agreement: Your business needs a contract to outline each partner's share and roles in the company. You can hire an attorney to write one for you or use a ready-made LLC Operating Agreement template to reduce your overhead costs.
Business license: Depending on your type of business, you may be required to obtain state, local, or industry-specific licenses to operate your business.
Paper fees: Many states charge extra fees to process paper (mail) applications (as the above table demonstrates).
For instance, in Georgia, you must file an annual registration for your LLC between January 1 and April 1. Otherwise, your LLC will be administratively dissolved.
Examples of the Cost of Incorporating an LLC in 2026
Your residence has a significant bearing on where you start a business. However, when considering how to start an LLC, you should think beyond physical convenience.
Some states may have more favorable initial costs, business climate, taxes, recurring expenses, and asset protection. Let’s compare three states.
Starting an LLC in Nevada
Nevada has attractive low taxes. The total mandatory cost to form an LLC in Nevada is $425. Let's break it down:
- Filing fees for Articles of Organization - $75
- Initial List of Members/Managers - $150
- State Business License - $200.
You may pay an additional $11 if you choose expedited processing or file online. Annual costs in Nevada may include the following:
- Renewing the State Business License - $200
- Filing the Annual List of Members/Managers - $150
The following are optional costs you may incur if you choose to start an LLC in Nevada.
- Certificate of Existence: $50
- Reserving an LLC name: $25
- Expedited Services: $125-$1,000
Big corporations find operating in Nevada rewarding because of the lack of corporate income taxes and personal tax exemptions.
Forming an LLC in Texas in 2026
With a $300 Articles of Organization filing fee, Texas LLC formation costs are high, second only to Massachusetts ($500). Despite the expensive filing fee, many businesses prefer to operate in the state because there are no annual reporting fees.
Here is a breakdown of the mandatory charges to start an LLC in Texas.
- Articles of Organization: $300
Texas doesn't have a general state business license. However, you may pay for an industry-specific license.
Optional expenses are:
- Name reservation is optional at $40.
- An Assumed Business Name/Doing Business As (DBA) costs another $25.
The state doesn't impose personal or corporate income tax. Texas is a good example of why the cost of filing formation documents should not be the only aspect you consider.
Starting an LLC in Wyoming in 2026
Wyoming doesn't burden businesses and individuals with income taxes and protects business owners' private information from becoming public. Additionally, the state has a robust asset protection policy, shielding your valuable property from creditors.
Opening an LLC business in Wyoming will cost you the following:
- Filing Articles of Organization: $100
- Online filing fee: $4
The annual report filing costs a minimum of $60.
Conclusion: Final Questions About LLCs
As this discussion has shown, reviewing the top states to incorporate a business is a good idea. Consider the following questions:
- How much is the initial cost?
- What are the recurring annual expenses?
- Does the state impose personal and corporate income taxes? If yes, how much is it?
- Is talent readily available to work in my company?
- What is the business environment? Are other businesses thriving?
- How much of my private information can I protect?
- Does the state protect my assets from creditors?
These tips can help you choose the best home for your business.
Consider the many benefits of forming an LLC: It is relatively affordable, limits your liabilities, and provides a professional entity under which to operate. Start by choosing a business idea you are passionate about, pick a unique name, and do not forget the LLC formation fees we have discussed.
Create your Articles of Organization now
Helpful Resources:
Cornell Law - Limited liability company (LLC)
Key Takeaways
- In 2026, LLC registration costs can range from $35 to $500, depending on the state.
- Additional LLC costs include registered agent fees, business names, and licenses.
- Forming an LLC provides limited liability protection and separates personal assets from business assets.
- State-specific costs, taxes, and annual fees should be considered when choosing an LLC location.
Registering an LLC allows individuals and groups to conduct business under a different name from their personal names. It is a great way to separate your business’s assets, debts, and liabilities from your individual obligations.
It provides limited liability protection, typically protecting your assets from the business’s debt collectors and lawsuits. Limited liability companies are also easier, faster, and cheaper to form than other business models.
With its many advantages, it’s no wonder that over 21 million LLCs are registered nationwide. Despite this, many enter the venture without calculating the cost and may wind up with a dormant business or unforeseen annual fees.
The cost of starting your LLC may differ from that of the next person. This article discusses how your residence, choice of registered agent, taxes, and other factors can affect the cost of registering and starting your LLC. Let’s begin by defining what an LLC is.
What Is an LLC?
An LLC is a type of business, and the acronym stands for Limited Liability Company. These business models differ from other companies, such as corporations and sole proprietorships, by significantly limiting your legal and financial liabilities to the business.
By registering the company, you are creating a separate entity. Registering it as a limited liability means any grievances against the company do not typically transfer to you.
Start your LLC Operating Agreement now
How Much Does an LLC Cost in 2026?
The cost of starting an LLC changes as states review their requirements. Some states charge more but do not have annual reporting fees or state business taxes. Others may be cheaper to start, but regular costs can quickly add up. Consider all aspects before picking the best location for your business.
So, how much is an LLC? Let’s break down the costs you will incur at each stage.
Business name reservation
You need a business name for your company. Although reserving a name may not be mandatory in your state, it is advisable to avoid duplicating another entity. Booking a name for your company is different from company formation.
Filing the LLC formation documents
If you want to form an LLC, you must file the Articles of Incorporation. The letters LLC, L.L.C., or the words Limited Liability Company must be part of the name.
The mandatory fee for LLC formation differs by state and ranges from $35 in Montana to $500 in Massachusetts.
Here is a table with the required fees for registering a domestic LLC in each state. It also shows the cost of reserving business names. Remember that name reservation may not be a requirement in your state.
Fees and requirements change over time. Use the links provided to view your state's most current regulations. States charge separate fees to register a foreign LLC.
| State | Compulsory LLC Formation Fees
(Certificate of Organization) |
Business Name Reservation (Optional) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $200 | $25 (paper)
$28 (online) |
| Alaska | $250 | $25 |
| Arizona | $50 | $10 (paper)
$45 (online) |
| Arkansas | $45 | $22.50 (online)
$25 (paper) |
| California | $70 | $10 |
| Colorado | $50 | $25 |
| Connecticut | $120 | $60 |
| Delaware | $110 | $75 |
| District of Columbia | $99 | $50 |
| Florida | $125 | N/A |
| Georgia | $100 (online)
$110 (by mail) |
$30 (online)
$35 (paper) |
| Hawaii | $51 | $10 |
| Idaho | $100 (online)
$120 (mail) |
$20 (online)
$40 (paper) |
| Illinois | $150 | $25 |
| Indiana | $98 (online)
$100 (paper) |
$10 |
| Iowa | $50 | $10 |
| Kansas | $160
$165 (paper) |
$30 (online)
$35 (paper) |
| Kentucky | $40 | $15 |
| Louisiana | $100 | $25 |
| Maine | $175 | $20 |
| Maryland | $100 | $25 |
| Massachusetts | $500 | $30 |
| Minnesota | $50 | $35 (mail/in-person)
$55 (online) |
| Mississippi | $50 | $25 |
| Missouri | $105 (paper)
$50 (online) |
$25 |
| Montana | $35 | $10 |
| Nebraska | $100 | $30 |
| Nevada | $75 | $25 |
| New Hampshire | $100 | $15 |
| New Jersey | $125 | $50 |
| New Mexico | $50 | $20 |
| New York | $200 | $20 |
| North Carolina | $125 | $30 |
| North Dakota | $135 | $10 |
| Ohio | $99 | $39 |
| Oklahoma | $100 | $10 |
| Oregon | $100 | $100 |
| Pennsylvania | $125 | $70 |
| Rhode Island | $150 | $50
$52.50 (online) |
| South Carolina | $110 | $25 |
| South Dakota | $150 | $25 |
| Tennessee | $300 | $20 |
| Texas | $300 | $40 |
| Utah | $59 | $22 |
| Vermont | $155 | $20 |
| Virginia | $100 | $10 |
| Washington | $200 | $30 |
| West Virginia | $100 | $15 |
| Wisconsin | $130 | $15 |
| Wyoming | $100 | $60 |
Aside from the Articles of Formation Fees, you may incur the following additional expenses.
Registered agent fees: Every LLC needs a registered agent. The agent's job is to receive legal communication on the company's behalf. Although you, as the business owner, can assume this role, you should be wary of the setbacks. For example, a registered agent's address is public information, meaning if you run your business from home, anyone can access your personal address.
Additionally, registered agents must be available at their address during business hours. That can be inconvenient when you must leave. Many businesses prefer to hire a registered agent instead.
Operating Agreement: Your business needs a contract to outline each partner's share and roles in the company. You can hire an attorney to write one for you or use a ready-made LLC Operating Agreement template to reduce your overhead costs.
Business license: Depending on your type of business, you may be required to obtain state, local, or industry-specific licenses to operate your business.
Paper fees: Many states charge extra fees to process paper (mail) applications (as the above table demonstrates).
For instance, in Georgia, you must file an annual registration for your LLC between January 1 and April 1. Otherwise, your LLC will be administratively dissolved.
Examples of the Cost of Incorporating an LLC in 2026
Your residence has a significant bearing on where you start a business. However, when considering how to start an LLC, you should think beyond physical convenience.
Some states may have more favorable initial costs, business climate, taxes, recurring expenses, and asset protection. Let’s compare three states.
Starting an LLC in Nevada
Nevada has attractive low taxes. The total mandatory cost to form an LLC in Nevada is $425. Let's break it down:
- Filing fees for Articles of Organization - $75
- Initial List of Members/Managers - $150
- State Business License - $200.
You may pay an additional $11 if you choose expedited processing or file online. Annual costs in Nevada may include the following:
- Renewing the State Business License - $200
- Filing the Annual List of Members/Managers - $150
The following are optional costs you may incur if you choose to start an LLC in Nevada.
- Certificate of Existence: $50
- Reserving an LLC name: $25
- Expedited Services: $125-$1,000
Big corporations find operating in Nevada rewarding because of the lack of corporate income taxes and personal tax exemptions.
Forming an LLC in Texas in 2026
With a $300 Articles of Organization filing fee, Texas LLC formation costs are high, second only to Massachusetts ($500). Despite the expensive filing fee, many businesses prefer to operate in the state because there are no annual reporting fees.
Here is a breakdown of the mandatory charges to start an LLC in Texas.
- Articles of Organization: $300
Texas doesn't have a general state business license. However, you may pay for an industry-specific license.
Optional expenses are:
- Name reservation is optional at $40.
- An Assumed Business Name/Doing Business As (DBA) costs another $25.
The state doesn't impose personal or corporate income tax. Texas is a good example of why the cost of filing formation documents should not be the only aspect you consider.
Starting an LLC in Wyoming in 2026
Wyoming doesn't burden businesses and individuals with income taxes and protects business owners' private information from becoming public. Additionally, the state has a robust asset protection policy, shielding your valuable property from creditors.
Opening an LLC business in Wyoming will cost you the following:
- Filing Articles of Organization: $100
- Online filing fee: $4
The annual report filing costs a minimum of $60.
Conclusion: Final Questions About LLCs
As this discussion has shown, reviewing the top states to incorporate a business is a good idea. Consider the following questions:
- How much is the initial cost?
- What are the recurring annual expenses?
- Does the state impose personal and corporate income taxes? If yes, how much is it?
- Is talent readily available to work in my company?
- What is the business environment? Are other businesses thriving?
- How much of my private information can I protect?
- Does the state protect my assets from creditors?
These tips can help you choose the best home for your business.
Consider the many benefits of forming an LLC: It is relatively affordable, limits your liabilities, and provides a professional entity under which to operate. Start by choosing a business idea you are passionate about, pick a unique name, and do not forget the LLC formation fees we have discussed.
Create your Articles of Organization now
Helpful Resources:
Cornell Law - Limited liability company (LLC)
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