How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in 2026?
Understand your setup costs before you commit.
See common LLC startup costs, state filing fee ranges, registered agent costs, annual fees, and a state selector for planning.
The cost to start an LLC depends on state filing fees, registered agent choices, publication rules, annual reports, franchise taxes, licenses, and professional help.
LLC Cost by State Planning Selector
Cost categories
United States • USD • Source review: 27 October 2026. State filing charges and annual obligations can change. The selector contains approximate legacy planning figures that have not been verified state by state in this review. They are not current fee quotations. Confirm costs with the filing authority before paying or deciding where to form.
Use the National Association of Secretaries of State registration directory to find your state filing office and the IRS state-government directory for state business and tax resources. Check formation fees, recurring reports or taxes, publication obligations and optional provider charges separately.
Illustrative budget: If an official filing fee is $100, an optional agent costs $150 and other setup costs are $200, your initial budget is $450 before any other applicable taxes or charges. These invented figures demonstrate the method and do not represent a particular state.
Update — 27 October 2026: Added source directories and clarified the unverified status of legacy fee estimates. No state-by-state fee verification is claimed. Editorial Policy.
Plan for state filing, name reservation if needed, registered agent, operating agreement help, EIN setup if using a professional, business licenses, insurance, bookkeeping, and annual reports.
- Do not budget only for the filing fee.
- Annual costs can matter more than launch costs.
- Publication states can add extra cost.
DIY vs professional help
DIY filing can be inexpensive when your situation is simple. Professional help may be worth it when ownership, tax elections, regulated work, or multi-state activity complicates the decision.
- Read state instructions first.
- Keep official confirmations.
- Avoid paying for EIN services unless bundled with useful advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest state to form an LLC?
The cheapest launch filing is not always the cheapest long-term state. Usually form where you operate unless you have a specific reason.
Do LLCs have annual fees?
Many states have annual report fees, franchise taxes, or renewal obligations.
Can I start an LLC without a lawyer?
Often yes for simple cases, but legal advice can help with multi-owner or higher-risk situations.
Build your next step with a clearer plan.
Use the calculators, checklists, and guides above to turn the idea into an operating plan.
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