What does an LLC cost in your state?
State fees only. These go to the state, not to us, whether you file yourself or we file for you.
Form your LLC in the state where you live and do business. Forming somewhere "cheaper" usually means paying two states.
Source: state fee schedules compiled by LLC University, updated June 2026. States change fees; confirm on your Secretary of State's site before filing.
LLC, S-Corp or C-Corp?
Three questions, then a plain-English starting point to discuss with Mike or your CPA.
| Topic | LLC | LLC taxed as S-Corp | C-Corp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Most new small businesses | Profitable owners who pay themselves a salary | Startups raising investor money |
| Taxes | Profit passes to your personal return | Passes through; salary + distributions can lower self-employment tax | Company pays corporate tax; dividends taxed again |
| Paperwork | Lightest | Payroll and a separate tax return | Board, bylaws, minutes, stock records |
| Investors | Possible, but many prefer corporations | Limited (100 owners, U.S. individuals, one class of stock) | Preferred by venture investors |
| Liability protection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
General education, not legal or tax advice. We're not a law firm or CPA firm; confirm your choice with a licensed professional.
Your launch checklist
Startup cost & break-even
See how many sales a month cover your costs, and how long until your startup costs are paid back.
Compliance calendar
The federal dates most new owners miss, plus your state's yearly filing. Pick your setup.
Calendar-year businesses. When a date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. Beneficial ownership (BOI) reports: FinCEN's 2026 rule removed this for companies formed in the U.S. Not tax advice; your CPA has the final word.
Name & domain check
Before you fall in love with a name, make sure your state, the trademark office and the internet agree.
Mike can handle every step on this page.
Startup Foundation Package: entity, filing, EIN, operating agreement, bank checklist and a 30-day roadmap. $497.