Question 1

How much does it cost to form an LLC?

Accepted Answer

State filing fees range from $35 (Montana) to $500 (Massachusetts). Add Brendat's service fee starting at $0. Your total depends on your state, required state fees, and the Brendat package you select. Use the calculator above to get a state-specific estimate.

Question 2

Does the calculator include annual LLC fees?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The calculator includes each state's recurring state fee: annual report, biennial report, annual registration, annual list, franchise tax, or whatever that state requires. States like Arizona, New Mexico, and South Carolina have no recurring state fee. States like Indiana and Iowa file biennially every 2 years. The multi-year totals reflect the actual number of required payments, not a simple yearly multiplication.

Question 3

Does the calculator include taxes?

Accepted Answer

The calculator shows a general state individual income tax rate as a reference. It does not calculate your actual tax liability. LLC taxation depends on your entity structure, tax elections, income level, and other factors. The multi-year cost totals do not include any tax estimates. Consult a qualified CPA or tax professional for tax planning.

Question 4

Are registered agent fees included?

Accepted Answer

Registered agent service is included in Brendat's Standard ($349) and Premium ($899) packages. It is not included in the Basic ($0) or Beginner ($149) packages. If you select Basic or Beginner, you will need to either serve as your own registered agent or hire a separate registered agent service.

Question 5

Can I compare LLC costs between states?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After calculating for any state, the results section shows a comparison bar chart with your selected state alongside commonly compared alternatives. This gives you a quick visual reference for how your state compares on Year 1 cost.

Question 6

Can I form an LLC in any state even if I don't live there?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can form an LLC in any US state regardless of where you live. However, if your business operates in a different state, you typically need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state, which means paying fees in both states. For most small businesses, forming in your home state is the most cost-effective option. Non-US residents can also form LLCs in any state with Brendat's help.

Question 7

What is a publication requirement and which states have it?

Accepted Answer

Some states require LLCs to publish a notice of formation in a local newspaper, including New York, Nebraska, and parts of Arizona. New York is the most expensive: publishing in 2 newspapers for 6 consecutive weeks can cost $500 to $2,000 or more depending on the county. Arizona requires 3 weeks of publication, but Maricopa and Pima County LLCs are exempt. Nebraska requires 3 weeks of publication within 45 days of formation, typically costing $50 to $150.

Question 8

What is the difference between an annual report and a biennial report?

Accepted Answer

An annual report is required every year. A biennial report is required every 2 years. States like Indiana, Iowa, New York, and Ohio use biennial filings. The calculator correctly handles biennial states so the multi-year totals reflect actual payment frequency rather than multiplying an annual fee incorrectly.

LLC Cost Calculator
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What Does This LLC Cost Calculator Include?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Smart Tips Before You File

Form in Your Home State First

Track Your Renewal Deadline

Budget for Publication (NY/NE/AZ)

Data Sources and Methodology

LLC Cost CalculatorAll 50 States