No, but you might want one. Forming an LLC helps protect your personal assets. It also unlocks the ability for you to open bank accounts, enter into contracts, hire employees, and get business licenses and permits.

What's the difference between an LLC and a corporation?

Both protect owners so they're not personally on the hook for business liabilities or debts. But, key differences include how they're owned (LLCs have one or more individual members, and corporations have shareholders) and maintained (corporations generally have more formal record-keeping and reporting requirements).

How am I taxed as an LLC?

You choose. Single-member LLCs can file as a sole proprietor. Multi-member LLCs can file as a partnership. Any LLC can file as a C or S corporation.

How do I form an LLC?

Tell us what you'd like to call your business, and we'll see if that name is up for grabs. (You can do this at the end if you don't have a name picked out yet.) Answer a few more questions. Pick a price plan that fits your needs, and we'll complete and file your paperwork with the state.

How much does it cost to form an LLC?

It depends. Our price plans start at $0 (plus filing fees), and you can add more services as you go to suit your business. Something to keep in mind—these costs are often tax-deductible.

LLC ( Limited Liability Company ) - Start a LLC

Call us

(855) 787-1221

Form your LLC with confidence

Whether you're ready to form an LLC on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back. Starts at $0 + state filing fees.

I can do most of the work myself!

Form my LLC for free

Includes:

Articles of organization, the document needed to officially register your LLC with the state
Name check service, to confirm that your preferred business name is available
Digital welcome packet, which includes a step-by-step checklist to follow after your LLC is officially registered

Customizable website, to establish your professional

online presence in minutes —powered by

I want advice from experienced attorneys

What’s included

Basic

Pro

Premium

Business formation basics

Articles of organization

Name check service

Business filing service

Digital welcome packet

Compliance essentials

Operating agreement

Federal Tax ID Number (EIN)

Financial account authorization

letter

Small business & insurance guidance

Personalized consultation with a licensed NEXT insurance agent^†

Consultation with a small business specialist

Attorney guidance

Unlimited 30-minute attorney consultations about new and unique legal topics or issues

30-day

subscription included‡

Attorney review of your legal contracts & documents

30-day

subscription included‡

Additional business services

Customizable website

powered by

Library of 150+ downloadable legal
forms

One year editor access to
customize any of our legal forms

One year of access to eSignature

One entity amendment with rush
service included for 30 days

One copyright registration per
month

30-day

subscription included‡

Support

Available support channels

Email & chat

Email, chat & phone

Form your LLC for free

How to start your LLC

Answer a series of questions

Answer a few questions

We'll complete and file your paperwork

Want to check out example documents?

.

Why start an LLC?

Protect your personal assets

By forming an LLC and keeping your personal finances separate, you can protect your personal assets from business liabilities.

Make things easier

It's typically easier to form an LLC than a corporation, and there are simpler rules for things like record-keeping.

Get tax flexibility

You get to decide how you're taxed—as an LLC or a corporation—to maximize your ability to save money and minimize tax liability.

Frequently asked questions

Ready to form your LLC?

Get started

What our customers are saying

LegalZoom made everything 10 times easier for my business. Fast, easy, and very professional.

—Luis C., LLC customer

This is my second LLC created with LegalZoom. I highly trust their process and professional specialists.

—Reginald C., LLC customer

Such an easy process! Would absolutely recommend to anyone looking to file for an LLC.

—Amelia P., LLC customer

Questions?

Ask an attorney

Get the right guidance

with an attorney by your

side.

Call an agent at

(855) 787-1221

Mon.–Fri. 5 a.m.–7 p.m. PT
Sat.–Sun. 7 a.m.–4 p.m. PT

Get legal help

#1 choice for helping to start, run, and grow small businesses : Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.

#1 choice in online business formation: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.

#1 choice for LLC formation: Based on a November 2021 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.

Most recommended business formation service: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.

Most favored brand amongst small business owners: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.

Best value for the money: Based on a January 2023 survey of small- and midsize-business owners comparing LegalZoom to other online legal services companies.

† Business insurance consultations are fulfilled by NEXT. By selecting Pro or Premium, you agree that LegalZoom and NEXT may share information about you with each other.

‡ Premium packages include 30 days of Business Attorney Plan. After 30 days, your card will automatically be charged $49. The service renews automatically each month and your card will be billed for the service price (currently $49). You can cancel online or by calling us at  (888) 310-0151 . Attorney services are fulfilled through Business Advantage Pro. For more details, please see our Legal Plan Contract Terms and Subscription Terms.

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