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VC interested but my company is an LLC — convert to C-corp first?

Started by founder_brent_v · May 2, 2026 · 198 views · 3 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
FB
founder_brent_vOP

follow-up. dallas family office wants to lead a $1.2M priced round. we're a Texas LLC. their lawyers said i need to convert to DE C-corp before they'll close. how complicated is that?

VA
vc_associate_alex

statutory conversion (TX LLC -> DE C) is the cleanest path. file in TX to convert to foreign-domiciled, then file in DE for new C-corp. two filings, $500-1500 in state fees, plus operating agreement to bylaws + stock plan setup.

budget 4-6 weeks and $5-10k in legal fees. investors will want this done before closing.

SF
serial_founder_q

some firms (clerky, stripe atlas) will handle the conversion as part of their package. atlas is around $500. clerky is around $1500. way cheaper than full law firm.

ST
SergeiTokmakovCounsel

I'm Sergei Tokmakov, California attorney (Bar #279869). VCs almost always require Delaware C-corp for institutional rounds. Statutory conversion preserves your existing operating history (no asset transfer, no change in tax basis) and is straightforward.

Steps: (1) draft plan of conversion + new DE COI, (2) member/manager approval of conversion, (3) file conversion docs in TX and DE, (4) update EINs/bank/contracts, (5) issue founder stock to current LLC members, (6) adopt new bylaws + stock plan, (7) initial 83(b) elections within 30 days of stock issuance. Whole package can be done in 3-4 weeks. I help founders with this transition flat fee — happy to scope. Informational only.