Register Your Business Entity

Register a Business in Any U.S. State (With or Without a Registered Agent Service)

Forming an LLC or corporation comes down to one filing with one state office. The hard part is knowing which office, what it costs, and what you owe every year after. Click your state on the map to see where you file, what you pay up front and every year, how long approval takes, and the one rule most likely to trip you up.

You can file directly with your state for just the state fee, or hire a registered agent service to handle the paperwork and receive legal mail for you.

Shade the map by

Click any state, or the star for Washington, DC. Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are in the dropdown.

Loading the map. You can also use the dropdown above.

Yearly cost shows the state’s own recurring fee or minimum tax per year (biennial fees are split in half). It leaves out registered agent fees, local licenses, and New York’s publication cost.

Quick definitions

Registered agent
The person or company that accepts lawsuits, tax notices, and official state mail for your business. Every LLC and corporation must name one, with a physical street address in the state.
Filing fee
The one-time amount the state charges to create your LLC.
Annual (or biennial) report
A short yearly or every-other-year filing that keeps your business in good standing. Skip it and the state can dissolve your LLC.
Franchise tax
A flat or minimum yearly tax some states charge just for existing, even with no income.
Foreign registration
Registering an LLC formed in one state so it can legally operate in another. “Foreign” means out-of-state, not outside the U.S.
Publication requirement
A rule in Arizona, Nebraska, and New York that you pay to run a notice about your new LLC in a local newspaper.

Compare registered agent services

All four services below form LLCs in all 50 states. The right pick depends less on the state and more on what you want handled: one flat bill, a path without an SSN, access to a lawyer, or the lowest cost today.

Before you compare: Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.
FeatureSame Day LLCDoolaLLC AttorneyInc Authority
Best forOne all-in price, with state fees already includedNon-U.S. foundersFounders who want access to a lawyerLowest upfront cost
Year 1 cost$1,000 flat, state filing fee included$297 + state feesFrom $49 + state fees$0 + state fees
Year 2+ cost$600/year auto-renewal, covering registered agent and state annual fees$297/year + state feesFrom about $180/year (compliance plan, includes registered agent) + state feesRegistered agent renews at about $179 to $249/year + state fees
Included in the priceState filing, EIN, operating agreement, 1 year of registered agent, online dashboardFormation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent, U.S. business address24-hour filing, operating agreement, bank account resolution (registered agent is a separate monthly plan)Filing, 1 year of registered agent, one free add-on (usually EIN), document portal
Paid extras to watchNone listedBookkeeping and tax filing on higher plansRegistered agent and annual report filing via subscriptionOperating agreement, compliance alerts, and other checkout upsells
Attorney accessNo. Free consultation with formation specialistsNoYes. Book by the half hour with no retainerNo
Bottom linePay once and skip the fee math. The flat price is strongest in high-fee states like Delaware or Massachusetts and costs more than paying separately in low-fee states.The smoothest path if you do not have an SSN. If you do have one, you pay for international features you may not need.A low entry price with a lawyer a click away. Budget for the monthly compliance plan, since that is where the registered agent lives.The cheapest way to get filed. Decline the add-ons you do not need and set a reminder before the registered agent auto-renews.
Sign upStart with Same Day LLCStart with DoolaStart with LLC AttorneyStart with Inc Authority

Year 2+ costs only line up once you add your state’s yearly fee from the map, except for Same Day LLC, whose renewal already includes state annual fees. Pricing last checked September 2026; confirm current pricing at checkout.

Aurajinn earns a commission if you sign up through the links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Commissions never change which facts appear in this comparison.

Do you need a registered agent service?

You need a registered agent, but not necessarily a paid service. Every state requires LLCs and corporations to name an agent with a physical street address in the state who is available during normal business hours to accept legal papers and official mail.

You can act as your own registered agent in any state where you have a qualifying street address and can be there during business hours. A P.O. Box does not qualify.

A paid service makes sense when:

  • You work from home and prefer to keep your home address off the public record
  • You travel or keep irregular hours, so you could miss a lawsuit or deadline notice
  • You are forming in a state where you do not live, such as Delaware or Wyoming
  • You operate in several states and want one agent and one dashboard for all of them
  • You want compliance reminders and scanned mail

Can you get an EIN for free?

Yes. The IRS issues Employer Identification Numbers at no cost. Apply online at irs.gov and you get your number as soon as you finish the application. Any site charging for an EIN is charging for something the IRS gives away, and the FTC has warned consumers about these look-alike sites.

  • The online application runs on weekdays during set hours (Eastern time), and you must finish it in one session.
  • The online tool requires the responsible party to have an SSN or ITIN. Without one, you can apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4, or by phone from outside the U.S.
  • Multi-member LLCs and corporations need an EIN. Single-member LLCs need one if they have employees or file certain excise taxes, and most get one anyway because banks ask for it.

Apply for a free EIN at IRS.gov

What else to know before you register

Form in your home state unless you have a specific reason not to

If you live and work in one state, forming there is usually cheapest. Forming in Delaware, Wyoming, or Nevada and then operating at home means you register and pay in both states every year. Those states make sense for specific cases, such as raising venture capital (Delaware corporations) or keeping owner names off public filings (Wyoming, Delaware, and New Mexico do not require them).

Budget for the real first-year and ongoing cost

Your total is more than the filing fee. Add up the state filing fee, any publication costs, your first annual report or franchise tax, registered agent fees if you use a service, and local business licenses. The map shows the state portion for each state.

Check whether your state requires newspaper publication

Arizona (outside Maricopa and Pima counties), Nebraska, and New York require you to publish a notice about your LLC. New York’s rule is the costliest, often several hundred dollars and sometimes more than $1,000.

Decide between filing yourself and using a service

You can file directly on every state’s website using the links on this page, and you only pay the state fee. Services add convenience, document review, operating agreement templates, and reminders. Most are not law firms, so if you need legal advice on structure or liability, look for a provider that includes attorney access.

Prepare the documents you need after formation

  • Operating agreement (LLC) or bylaws (corporation). Usually not filed with the state, but banks and investors ask for it.
  • State tax registrations for sales tax or payroll, if they apply to you
  • City or county business licenses

Register in every state where you operate

If you form in one state but have an office, employees, or regular in-person operations in another, you usually must register there as a foreign LLC and keep a registered agent there too. That means two sets of annual fees.

Keep your home address private

Your registered agent’s address is public. If you serve as your own agent from home, your home address goes on the public record. A registered agent service puts its address there instead.

Non-U.S. founders: plan for a few extra steps

  • You can form a U.S. LLC without living in the U.S. You need a registered agent in the state you form in, and a commercial service satisfies that.
  • Getting an EIN without an SSN or ITIN means applying by fax, mail, or phone rather than online.
  • U.S.-formed LLCs do not file BOI reports with FinCEN. LLCs formed outside the U.S. that register to do business here generally do, and New York requires a similar state filing from those same non-U.S. LLCs.
  • Opening a U.S. business bank account remotely is possible with some banks and fintechs, but many require an in-person visit.

Open a business bank account

Banks typically ask for your EIN, formation documents, operating agreement, and a government ID for each owner. Some open accounts fully online; others require a branch visit.

Keep up with ongoing compliance

  • Annual or biennial report, on time
  • Franchise tax or annual tax, if your state charges one
  • Registered agent renewal
  • State sales tax and payroll filings, if they apply

State-by-state directory

Last updated September 2026. Fees change, so confirm the current amount on the official state website before you file.

Registering a business in Alabama

To form an LLC
$200 filing fee, plus a required $28 name reservation before you file
Every year after
No Secretary of State annual report. You file an annual Business Privilege Tax return with the Alabama Department of Revenue, but if your calculated tax is $100 or less, you owe nothing (the old minimum tax was eliminated starting with the 2024 tax year).
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days online
Watch out: Reserve your name first. Alabama rejects formation filings without a name reservation certificate.

Where you file: Alabama Secretary of State, Business Entities Division

Alabama Secretary of State|334-242-5324

Montgomery (mailing): P.O. Box 5616, Montgomery, AL 36103-5616

Registered agent services in Alabama

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Alaska

To form an LLC
$250 filing fee
Every year after
$100 biennial report, due January 2 every two years
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $350
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: The report is biennial (every two years), not annual. Mark your calendar for January 2.

Where you file: Alaska Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing (Alaska has no Secretary of State; this office handles business filings)

Alaska Division of Corporations|907-465-2530

Anchorage: 550 W 7th Ave, Suite 1535, Anchorage, AK 99501-3587

Juneau (mailing): P.O. Box 110800, Juneau, AK 99811-0800

Registered agent services in Alaska

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Arizona

To form an LLC
$50 filing fee (optional expedite available)
Every year after
No annual report for LLCs
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
About 9 to 11 business days standard, roughly 2 to 4 business days expedited
Watch out: Newspaper publication. If your statutory agent’s address is outside Maricopa or Pima County, you must publish a Notice of LLC Formation in an ACC-approved newspaper within 60 days of approval. Maricopa and Pima filers are exempt because the ACC posts the notice online.

Where you file: Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC). The Arizona Secretary of State does not record business entity filings.

Arizona Corporation Commission (eCorp)|602-542-3026

Phoenix: 1300 W. Washington Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Tucson (walk-ins): 400 W. Congress Street, Tucson, AZ 85701

Registered agent services in Arizona

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Arkansas

To form an LLC
$45 filing fee online
Every year after
$150 annual franchise tax report, due May 1
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $270 online
Typical approval time
About 1 to 3 business days online
Watch out: The $150 franchise tax report is mandatory every year, even with no revenue.

Where you file: Arkansas Secretary of State, Business and Commercial Services

Arkansas Secretary of State|501-682-3409

Little Rock: 1401 W. Capitol Avenue, Suite 250, Little Rock, AR 72201

Registered agent services in Arkansas

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in California

To form an LLC
$70 filing fee, plus a $20 Statement of Information due within 90 days
Every year after
$800 minimum annual franchise tax (paid to the Franchise Tax Board) plus a $20 Statement of Information every two years. LLCs with $250,000 or more in California income also owe an additional LLC fee.
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $70, plus the same $800 annual tax
Typical approval time
Varies; online filings are fastest
Watch out: The $800 tax is due in your first year, by the 15th day of the 4th month after you form, even if you earn nothing.

Where you file: California Secretary of State (bizfile Online)

California bizfile Online|916-657-5448

Sacramento: 1500 11th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

Registered agent services in California

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Colorado

To form an LLC
$50 filing fee
Every year after
$25 periodic report, filed online, due during your anniversary window
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
Often immediate online; up to about 5 business days
Watch out: Reports are online only, and a late report adds a $50 fee.

Where you file: Colorado Secretary of State

Colorado Secretary of State|303-894-2200, ext. 2

Denver: 1700 Broadway, Suite 550, Denver, CO 80290

Registered agent services in Colorado

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Connecticut

To form an LLC
$120 filing fee
Every year after
$80 annual report, filed January 1 to March 31
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $120
Typical approval time
About 3 to 5 business days online
Watch out: LLC annual reports use a fixed January 1 to March 31 window, not your anniversary month.

Where you file: Connecticut Secretary of the State, Business Services (business.ct.gov)

Connecticut Business Services|860-509-6003

Hartford: 165 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106

Registered agent services in Connecticut

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Delaware

To form an LLC
$110 filing fee
Every year after
$400 flat annual LLC tax starting with the 2026 tax year (raised from $300), due June 1 of the following year. No annual report for LLCs. Late payment adds a $200 penalty plus interest.
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $200
Typical approval time
About 2 to 3 weeks standard; paid expedite available from 24 hours
Watch out: Out-of-state owners who form here usually pay twice: Delaware’s annual tax plus registration and annual fees in the state where they actually operate. Corporations have a separate franchise tax and annual report.

Where you file: Delaware Division of Corporations

Delaware Division of Corporations|302-739-3073

Dover: 401 Federal Street, Suite 4, Dover, DE 19901

Registered agent services in Delaware

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in District of Columbia

To form an LLC
$99 filing fee
Every year after
$300 biennial report, due April 1 every two years
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: Most businesses also need a DC Basic Business License, which is separate from forming the LLC.

Where you file: DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP), Corporations Division. DC’s Office of the Secretary does not register businesses.

MyDC Business Center|202-442-4400

Washington, DC: 1100 4th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024

Registered agent services in District of Columbia

Doola and LLC Attorney do not clearly list DC coverage, so they are left out here.

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Florida

To form an LLC
$125 filing fee
Every year after
$138.75 annual report, due January 1 to May 1
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $125
Typical approval time
About 5 to 7 business days online
Watch out: Miss May 1 and the fee jumps by $400. Unfiled companies are administratively dissolved in late September.

Where you file: Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations (Sunbiz)

Florida Sunbiz|850-245-6050

Tallahassee: 2415 N. Monroe Street, Suite 810, Tallahassee, FL 32303

Registered agent services in Florida

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Georgia

To form an LLC
$100 online ($110 by mail)
Every year after
$50 annual registration online ($60 by mail), due April 1
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $225 online
Typical approval time
About 7 to 10 business days online
Watch out: You can prepay up to three years of annual registrations at once.

Where you file: Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division (eCorp)

Georgia eCorp|404-656-2817

Atlanta: 2 MLK Jr. Drive SE, Suite 313, Floyd West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334-1530

Registered agent services in Georgia

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Guam

To form an LLC
Contact the agency
Every year after
Contact the agency
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
Contact the agency
Typical approval time
Contact the agency
Watch out: Commercial registered agent services on this page do not operate here, so you need a local agent or local counsel.

Where you file: Guam Department of Revenue and Taxation (business registration and licensing)

Guam Business One-Stop Licensing Center|671-646-3259

Tamuning: 542 N Marine Corps Drive, Tamuning, GU 96913

Registered agent services in Guam

Not available. The registered agent services on this page do not cover this territory. Ask the agency above for a list of local agents, or work with a local attorney.

Registering a business in Hawaii

To form an LLC
About $51 ($50 filing fee plus $1 archive fee)
Every year after
Small annual report fee (about $12.50 to $15), due by the end of the quarter containing your registration anniversary
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $51
Typical approval time
Varies; online is fastest
Watch out: Very low ongoing cost, but the due date is tied to your anniversary quarter, not a fixed date.

Where you file: Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Business Registration Division

Hawaii Business Registration Division|808-586-2727

Honolulu: 335 Merchant Street, Room 201, Honolulu, HI 96813

Registered agent services in Hawaii

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Idaho

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee online
Every year after
$0 annual report, due by the end of your anniversary month
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days online
Watch out: The report is free, but skipping it still leads to dissolution. Keep your registered agent current.

Where you file: Idaho Secretary of State, Business Services

Idaho Secretary of State|208-334-2300

Boise: 700 W. Jefferson Street, Room E205, Boise, ID 83702

Registered agent services in Idaho

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Illinois

To form an LLC
$150 filing fee
Every year after
$75 annual report
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days online
Watch out: LLCs pay a flat $75 per year. Corporations also owe franchise tax.

Where you file: Illinois Secretary of State, Department of Business Services

Illinois Secretary of State, Business Services|217-782-6961

Springfield: 501 S. Second Street, Room 350, Springfield, IL 62756

Chicago: 69 W. Washington Street, Suite 1240, Chicago, IL 60602

Registered agent services in Illinois

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Indiana

To form an LLC
$95 online ($100 by mail)
Every year after
$32 biennial report online, due by the end of your anniversary month every two years
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $105 to $140
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days online
Watch out: The report is biennial and filed through INBiz.

Where you file: Indiana Secretary of State, Business Services Division (INBiz)

INBiz|317-234-9768

Indianapolis: 302 W. Washington Street, Room E018, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Registered agent services in Indiana

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Iowa

To form an LLC
$50 filing fee
Every year after
$30 biennial report online, due January 1 to April 1 of odd-numbered years
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: Reports are due only in odd-numbered years.

Where you file: Iowa Secretary of State, Business Services

Iowa Secretary of State|515-281-5204

Des Moines: First Floor, Lucas Building, 321 E. 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319

Registered agent services in Iowa

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Kansas

To form an LLC
$160 online ($165 by mail)
Every year after
Biennial information report, due April 15. File in even years if you formed in an even year, odd years if you formed in an odd year the fee is up to $110.
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $165
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: Kansas switched from annual to biennial reports in 2024. Older guides online are out of date.

Where you file: Kansas Secretary of State, Business Services

Kansas Secretary of State|785-296-4564

Topeka: Memorial Hall, 1st Floor, 120 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66612-1594

Registered agent services in Kansas

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Kentucky

To form an LLC
$40 filing fee
Every year after
$15 annual report, due by June 30
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $90
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: One of the cheapest states to maintain an LLC.

Where you file: Kentucky Secretary of State, Business Filings

Kentucky Secretary of State|502-564-3490

Frankfort (mailing): P.O. Box 718, Frankfort, KY 40602

Registered agent services in Kentucky

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Louisiana

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$35 annual report
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150 (application must be notarized)
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: Foreign registrations need a notarized application. File online through geauxBIZ.

Where you file: Louisiana Secretary of State, Commercial Division (geauxBIZ)

Louisiana Secretary of State|225-925-4704

Baton Rouge: 8585 Archives Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Registered agent services in Louisiana

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Maine

To form an LLC
$175 filing fee
Every year after
$85 annual report, due June 1
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $250
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: Foreign registration is expensive relative to forming here.

Where you file: Maine Secretary of State, Division of Corporations

Maine Division of Corporations|207-624-7736

Augusta (mailing): 101 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0101

Registered agent services in Maine

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Maryland

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$300 annual report and personal property return, due April 15
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: The $300 yearly report applies even to small, inactive LLCs.

Where you file: Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT), through Maryland Business Express. The Secretary of State does not form businesses.

Maryland Business Express|410-767-1350

Baltimore: 301 W. Preston Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

Registered agent services in Maryland

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Massachusetts

To form an LLC
About $500 to $520 depending on filing method
Every year after
$500 annual report
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $500
Typical approval time
About 10 to 15 business days
Watch out: Among the highest ongoing LLC costs in the country.

Where you file: Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Corporations Division

Massachusetts Corporations Division|617-727-9640

Boston: McCormack Building, One Ashburton Place, 17th Floor, Boston, MA 02108

Registered agent services in Massachusetts

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Michigan

To form an LLC
$50 filing fee
Every year after
$25 annual statement, due February 15
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $50
Typical approval time
About 10 to 14 business days
Watch out: Low cost, but the statement is due in mid-February every year.

Where you file: Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), Corporations Division. Michigan’s Secretary of State handles vehicles and elections, not business formation.

Michigan LARA|517-241-6470

Lansing: Ottawa Building, 611 W. Ottawa Street, Lansing, MI 48909

Registered agent services in Michigan

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Minnesota

To form an LLC
$155 online ($135 by mail)
Every year after
Free annual renewal for domestic LLCs, due December 31
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $185 to $205
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: The renewal is free, but missing it leads to administrative termination.

Where you file: Minnesota Secretary of State, Business Services

Minnesota Secretary of State|651-296-2803

Saint Paul: 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100, Saint Paul, MN 55103

Registered agent services in Minnesota

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Mississippi

To form an LLC
$50 filing fee
Every year after
$0 annual report for domestic LLCs, due April 15
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $250 (foreign LLCs also pay about $250 per year)
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: Free for local LLCs, costly for out-of-state LLCs.

Where you file: Mississippi Secretary of State, Business Services

Mississippi Secretary of State|601-359-1633

Jackson: 125 S. Congress Street, Jackson, MS 39201

Registered agent services in Mississippi

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Missouri

To form an LLC
$50 online ($105 by mail)
Every year after
No annual report for LLCs
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $105
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: No annual report and no franchise tax for LLCs, one of the lowest-maintenance states.

Where you file: Missouri Secretary of State, Business Services

Missouri Secretary of State|866-223-6535

Jefferson City: 600 W. Main Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101

Registered agent services in Missouri

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Montana

To form an LLC
$35 filing fee
Every year after
$20 annual report, due April 15 ($35 if late)
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $70
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: Very low cost to form and maintain.

Where you file: Montana Secretary of State, Business Services

Montana Secretary of State|406-444-2034

Helena: Montana Capitol Building, Room 260, P.O. Box 202801, Helena, MT 59620-2801

Registered agent services in Montana

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Nebraska

To form an LLC
$100 online ($110 by mail), plus newspaper publication costs
Every year after
Biennial report, due April 1 of odd-numbered years. Expect to pay up to $30.
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100 online, plus a small certificate fee
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: Newspaper publication. After approval, publish a notice of organization for three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in your county, then file proof of publication with the state (small filing fee).

Where you file: Nebraska Secretary of State, Business Services

Nebraska Secretary of State|402-471-2554

Lincoln: State Capitol, 1445 K Street, Suite 2300, Lincoln, NE 68509

Registered agent services in Nebraska

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Nevada

To form an LLC
About $425 in year one: $75 articles, $150 initial list, $200 state business license
Every year after
About $350 per year ($150 annual list plus $200 business license)
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $425 ($75 registration, $150 initial list, $200 business license)
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 business days
Watch out: The state business license is what makes Nevada pricier than it looks.

Where you file: Nevada Secretary of State (SilverFlume)

Nevada Secretary of State|775-684-5708

Carson City: 101 N. Carson Street, Suite 3, Carson City, NV 89701

Registered agent services in Nevada

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in New Hampshire

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$100 annual report, due April 1 ($50 late fee)
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: File by April 1 to avoid the late fee.

Where you file: New Hampshire Secretary of State, Corporation Division (QuickStart)

New Hampshire QuickStart|603-271-3246

Concord: 107 North Main Street, Concord, NH 03301-4989

Registered agent services in New Hampshire

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in New Jersey

To form an LLC
$125 filing fee
Every year after
$75 annual report
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $125
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: Missing two annual reports in a row can get your LLC revoked.

Where you file: New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services (NJ Business Portal)

New Jersey Business Portal|1-800-JERSEY-7 (1-800-537-7397)

Trenton (mailing): P.O. Box 456, Trenton, NJ 08625

Registered agent services in New Jersey

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in New Mexico

To form an LLC
$50 filing fee
Every year after
No annual report for LLCs
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: LLCs skip annual reports. Corporations file biennially.

Where you file: New Mexico Secretary of State, Corporations and Business Services

New Mexico Secretary of State|505-827-3600, ext. 1

Santa Fe: 325 Don Gaspar, Suite 300, Santa Fe, NM 87501

Registered agent services in New Mexico

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in New York

To form an LLC
$200 filing fee, plus publication costs and a $50 Certificate of Publication
Every year after
$9 biennial statement
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $250, plus publication
Typical approval time
About 7 to 14 business days
Watch out: Newspaper publication applies to every new LLC, domestic or foreign. Within 120 days, publish a notice in two newspapers for six consecutive weeks, then file a Certificate of Publication. Costs range from a few hundred dollars to well over $1,000 depending on the county, and skipping it suspends your authority to do business.

Where you file: New York Department of State, Division of Corporations

New York Division of Corporations|518-473-2492

Albany: One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231-0001

New York City: 123 William Street, New York, NY 10038-3804

Registered agent services in New York

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in North Carolina

To form an LLC
$125 filing fee
Every year after
$200 annual report, due April 15
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $250
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: $200 per year is on the higher side.

Where you file: North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration

North Carolina Secretary of State|919-814-5400

Raleigh: 2 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27601-2903

Registered agent services in North Carolina

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in North Dakota

To form an LLC
$135 filing fee
Every year after
$50 annual report, due November 15
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $135
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: Late fees escalate the longer you wait.

Where you file: North Dakota Secretary of State, Business Services

North Dakota Secretary of State|701-328-2900

Bismarck: 600 E. Boulevard Avenue, Dept. 108, Bismarck, ND 58505-0500

Registered agent services in North Dakota

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Ohio

To form an LLC
$99 filing fee
Every year after
No annual report for LLCs
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $99
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: No report, but you must keep your statutory agent current.

Where you file: Ohio Secretary of State, Business Services

Ohio Secretary of State|614-466-3910

Columbus: 180 Civic Center Drive, Columbus, OH 43215

Registered agent services in Ohio

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Oklahoma

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$25 annual certificate
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $300
Typical approval time
About 5 to 10 business days
Watch out: Foreign registration costs three times the domestic fee.

Where you file: Oklahoma Secretary of State, Business Services

Oklahoma Secretary of State|405-521-3912

Oklahoma City: 421 N.W. 13th Street, Suite 210, Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Registered agent services in Oklahoma

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Oregon

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$100 annual report
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $275 (and $275 per year)
Typical approval time
About 1 to 2 weeks
Watch out: There is a 45-day grace period, but foreign LLCs pay much more each year.

Where you file: Oregon Secretary of State, Corporation Division

Oregon Secretary of State|503-986-2200

Salem: 255 Capitol Street NE, Suite 151, Salem, OR 97310

Registered agent services in Oregon

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Pennsylvania

To form an LLC
$125 filing fee
Every year after
$7 annual report (required starting 2025)
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $250
Typical approval time
About 7 to 10 business days
Watch out: Pennsylvania added annual reports in 2025. Starting in 2027, companies that do not file face administrative dissolution.

Where you file: Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations

Pennsylvania Business Filing Services|717-787-1057

Harrisburg: 401 North Street, 206 North Office Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120

Registered agent services in Pennsylvania

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Puerto Rico

To form an LLC
Contact the agency
Every year after
Contact the agency
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
Contact the agency
Typical approval time
Contact the agency
Watch out: Commercial registered agent services on this page do not operate here, so you need a local agent or local counsel.

Where you file: Puerto Rico Department of State, Registry of Corporations and Entities

Puerto Rico Department of State|787-722-2121

San Juan: Calle San José, San Juan, PR 00901

Registered agent services in Puerto Rico

Not available. The registered agent services on this page do not cover this territory. Ask the agency above for a list of local agents, or work with a local attorney.

Registering a business in Rhode Island

To form an LLC
$150 filing fee
Every year after
$50 annual report, due February 1 to May 1
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: The report has a fixed spring window, not an anniversary date.

Where you file: Rhode Island Department of State, Business Services

Rhode Island Business Portal|401-222-3040

Providence: 148 W. River Street, Providence, RI 02904-2615

Registered agent services in Rhode Island

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in South Carolina

To form an LLC
$110 filing fee
Every year after
No annual report for most LLCs (LLCs taxed as S corporations file with the Department of Revenue)
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $110
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: One of the few states with no ongoing state report for standard LLCs.

Where you file: South Carolina Secretary of State, Division of Business Filings

South Carolina Business Filings|803-734-2158

Columbia: 1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 525, Columbia, SC 29201

Registered agent services in South Carolina

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in South Dakota

To form an LLC
$150 filing fee
Every year after
About $55 annual report online, due by the first day of your anniversary month
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $750
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: Foreign registration is among the most expensive in the country.

Where you file: South Dakota Secretary of State, Business Services

South Dakota Secretary of State|605-773-4845

Pierre: 500 E. Capital Avenue, Pierre, SD 57501

Registered agent services in South Dakota

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Tennessee

To form an LLC
$50 per member, $300 minimum, $3,000 maximum
Every year after
Annual report at $50 per member ($300 minimum, $3,000 maximum), due by the first day of the fourth month after your fiscal year ends. LLCs also owe state franchise and excise taxes.
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
$50 per member, $300 minimum
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: Fees scale with member count, and franchise and excise taxes apply even to small LLCs.

Where you file: Tennessee Secretary of State, Division of Business and Charitable Organizations

Tennessee Secretary of State, Business Services|615-741-2286

Nashville: 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 6th Floor, Snodgrass Tower, Nashville, TN 37243

Registered agent services in Tennessee

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Texas

To form an LLC
$300 filing fee
Every year after
No annual report fee, but you file a franchise tax Public Information Report with the Comptroller each year by May 15. Most small LLCs owe no franchise tax below the revenue threshold.
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $750
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: The yearly Comptroller filing trips up owners who assume “no annual report” means no filing.

Where you file: Texas Secretary of State, Corporations Section (SOSDirect)

Texas Secretary of State|512-463-5555

Austin: 1019 Brazos Street, Austin, TX 78701

Registered agent services in Texas

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Utah

To form an LLC
About $59 filing fee
Every year after
About $18 annual renewal, due by the end of your anniversary month
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $59
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: Low cost to maintain.

Where you file: Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Corporations and Commercial Code

Utah Division of Corporations|801-530-4849

Salt Lake City: 160 E. 300 S., 1st Floor, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

Registered agent services in Utah

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Vermont

To form an LLC
$155 filing fee
Every year after
$45 annual report for domestic LLCs ($140 for foreign LLCs)
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $140
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: Foreign LLCs pay about three times more per year.

Where you file: Vermont Secretary of State, Corporations Division

Vermont Corporations Division|802-828-2386

Montpelier: 128 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05633-1104

Registered agent services in Vermont

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in U.S. Virgin Islands

To form an LLC
Contact the agency
Every year after
Contact the agency
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
Contact the agency
Typical approval time
Contact the agency
Watch out: Commercial registered agent services on this page do not operate here, so you need a local agent or local counsel.

Where you file: Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Division of Corporations and Trademarks

USVI Division of Corporations and Trademarks|340-773-6449

St. Croix: 1131 King Street, Suite 101, Christiansted, St. Croix, VI 00820

Registered agent services in U.S. Virgin Islands

Not available. The registered agent services on this page do not cover this territory. Ask the agency above for a list of local agents, or work with a local attorney.

Registering a business in Virginia

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$50 annual registration fee, due by the end of your anniversary month
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
Varies; online is fastest
Watch out: Virginia uses the SCC, not a Secretary of State.

Where you file: Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC), Clerk’s Office

Virginia SCC Clerk’s Information System|804-371-9733

Richmond: 1300 E. Main Street, Richmond, VA 23219

Registered agent services in Virginia

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Washington

To form an LLC
$200 filing fee
Every year after
Annual report (about $70), due by the end of your anniversary month
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $200
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: Most businesses also need a state business license through the Department of Revenue.

Where you file: Washington Secretary of State, Corporations and Charities Division

Washington Corporations and Charities|360-725-0377

Olympia (mailing): P.O. Box 40234, Olympia, WA 98504-0234

Registered agent services in Washington

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in West Virginia

To form an LLC
$100 filing fee
Every year after
$25 annual report, due July 1
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
Varies
Watch out: The July 1 deadline is later than most states.

Where you file: West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division

West Virginia Secretary of State|304-558-8000

Charleston (One Stop Business Center): 1615 Washington Street E., Charleston, WV 25311-2126

Registered agent services in West Virginia

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Wisconsin

To form an LLC
$130 online ($170 by mail)
Every year after
$25 annual report online, due by the end of your anniversary quarter
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $100
Typical approval time
Varies; online is fastest
Watch out: File with DFI, not the Secretary of State.

Where you file: Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). The Secretary of State does not form businesses in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin DFI, Corporations|608-261-7577

Madison: 4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower, Madison, WI 53705

Registered agent services in Wisconsin

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

Registering a business in Wyoming

To form an LLC
About $100 filing fee (plus a small online convenience fee)
Every year after
$60 minimum annual report (or a tiny percentage of in-state assets if higher), due on the first day of your anniversary month
Registering an out-of-state LLC here
About $150
Typical approval time
Often 1 to 2 business days online
Watch out: Popular for privacy and low fees, but if you operate elsewhere you also register (and pay) in that state.

Where you file: Wyoming Secretary of State, Business Division (WyoBiz)

WyoBiz|307-777-7311

Cheyenne: Herschler Building East, 122 W. 25th Street, Suite 101, Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020

Registered agent services in Wyoming

Each service can form your LLC in any state and includes a registered agent in the state you form in. If you later register your LLC in another state, you need a registered agent there too, which usually adds a yearly fee.

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FAQ

Do I have to pay for a registered agent?

No. You can be your own agent if you have a street address in the state and are available during business hours. A paid service is optional but common for privacy and reliability.

Is an EIN free?

Yes. Apply at irs.gov for free. Do not pay a third party for it.

Do I need an EIN for a single-member LLC?

Not always. You need one if you hire employees or owe certain federal taxes, and most banks ask for one before opening a business account.

Can I form my LLC online myself?

Yes. Every state lets you file online through the official site linked in its popup, and you only pay the state fee.

What if I live in a different state than where I form?

You likely need to register as a foreign LLC in the state where you operate and keep a registered agent in both states.

Pick your state and file

Registering a business is one filing, but the yearly obligations are what separate a smooth first year from a surprise dissolution notice. Start with your state on the map, decide whether to file yourself or use a service, and put your first report date on the calendar the day your LLC is approved.

Once you are registered, plan the rest of your launch, from your offer to your first marketing plan, in the free Aurajinn Business Launchpad.

Claim your free launch dashboard

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