How much does it cost to form an LLC or corporation?

Formation costs vary by state. Delaware LLCs cost approximately $840 first year ($90 filing, $50 registered agent, $350 operating agreement, $50 expedited, $300 franchise tax). Wyoming starts at $610, while California includes an $800 minimum franchise tax. Our attorney-assisted formation starts at $499.

What is the difference between an LLC and a corporation?

LLCs offer flexible management and pass-through taxation by default. Corporations have formal board/shareholder structures, can issue stock, and are preferred by investors. S-Corps combine corporate structure with pass-through taxation. C-Corps allow unlimited shareholders and may qualify for QSBS benefits.

Which state is best for forming a business entity?

Delaware is preferred for startups seeking VC funding due to its corporate law and Court of Chancery. Wyoming offers the lowest fees and strongest privacy. Nevada has no income tax but higher annual fees. Most small businesses should form in their operating state to avoid foreign qualification costs.

What is included in attorney-assisted formation?

Our $499+ formation package includes state filing, operating agreement or bylaws drafting, registered agent coordination, EIN application guidance, and a compliance calendar. We also offer custom shareholder agreements, stock option plans, and conversion services.

How long does it take to form an LLC or corporation?

Standard processing takes 3-7 business days in most states. Expedited processing (24-48 hours) is available for additional fees. Delaware and Wyoming offer same-day processing. Our average filing turnaround is 48 hours.

What ongoing compliance is required after formation?

Requirements include annual reports (fees vary by state), registered agent maintenance, franchise taxes (Delaware $300/yr LLC, California $800 minimum), federal tax returns, and maintaining corporate records. Our compliance calendar tracks all deadlines for your entity.

🏢 Attorney-Assisted Formation

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Skip the DIY headaches. I'll form your entity, draft your operating agreement or bylaws, and set up your compliance calendar—so you can focus on your business.

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$499 Starting Price

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Delaware LLC

Select a state to see details

📄 State Filing Fee $90

📬 Registered Agent (1 year) $50

📝 Operating Agreement / Bylaws $350

⚡ Expedited Processing $50

🏛️ Annual Franchise Tax $300/yr

First Year Total $840

Mar

Annual Franchise Tax Due

Delaware franchise tax and annual report filing deadline

Apr

Federal Tax Return

Form 1065 (partnership) or Form 1120 (corporation)

Jun

Annual Report (varies by state)

File annual report to maintain good standing

Dec

Registered Agent Renewal

Renew registered agent service before year end

🏛️ State Franchise Tax

$300/year

Minimum annual tax regardless of income. Delaware uses Assumed Par Value method for corporations.

💼 State Income Tax

0% (pass-through)

Delaware LLCs have no state income tax on out-of-state income. Taxed at member level.

📊 Federal Tax Treatment

Pass-Through

Single-member LLC: Schedule C. Multi-member: Form 1065. Can elect S-Corp or C-Corp treatment.

Formation Guides & Resources

In-depth guides for every state and entity type. Click any guide for detailed requirements, step-by-step instructions, and state-specific considerations.

🏛️

Delaware Corporation Formation

The gold standard for startups and investors. Court of Chancery, flexible corporate law, no residency requirements.

Read Full Guide →

📋

Delaware LLC Formation

Maximum flexibility, strong asset protection, and no state income tax on out-of-state business.

Read Full Guide →

🦬

Wyoming LLC Formation

Best privacy protections, lowest fees, no state income tax. Popular for holding companies and asset protection.

Read Full Guide →

🏔️

Wyoming Corporation

Privacy-friendly incorporation with no state income tax and affordable franchise taxes.

Read Full Guide →

🌴

California Corporation

Complete guide to incorporating in CA. $800 minimum franchise tax, S-Corp election considerations.

Read Full Guide →

☀️

California Professional Corps

Medical, dental, law, accounting, and other professional corporations in California.

Read Full Guide →

⚖️

Wyoming vs Delaware

Which state is better for your business? Detailed comparison of fees, taxes, and protections.

Read Comparison →

🔄

LLC vs S-Corp vs C-Corp

Choose the right entity type. Tax implications, liability protection, and operational differences.

Read Comparison →

🌐

Delaware for Tech Startups

Why VCs prefer Delaware. Preferred stock, SAFEs, 83(b) elections, and startup-friendly provisions.

Read Full Guide →

🌍

Non-US Founders Guide

Form a US entity as a foreign national. EIN, banking, tax treaties, and compliance requirements.

Read Full Guide →

📈

Stock Option Plans

ISOs, NSOs, restricted stock, and equity compensation for startups. 409A valuations explained.

Read Full Guide →

🔄

LLC to C-Corp Conversion

Converting your LLC to a corporation for fundraising. Tax implications and step-by-step process.

Read Full Guide →

Form Your LLC or Corporation the Right Way

Formation Cost Calculator

Formation Guides & Resources

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