How much does it cost to form an LLC?

LLC formation costs vary by state, ranging from $50 in several states to $500 in Massachusetts. Most states charge between $50-$300 for LLC formation.

How much does it cost to form a Corporation?

Corporation formation fees range from $50 to $300 across most states, with some states like Massachusetts charging higher fees. The average cost is around $100-$150.

Are there additional costs beyond filing fees?

Yes, additional costs may include registered agent fees ($50-$300/year), annual report fees ($10-$300), publication requirements in some states, and business licenses depending on your industry.

How accurate are the formation cost estimates?

Our calculator provides estimates based on current state filing fees. However, costs may change without notice. Always verify current fees and requirements with your state's Secretary of State office before filing.

Should I verify costs with the state before filing?

Yes, it's essential to verify all filing fees, requirements, and processing times with the official state business registration office, as information can change due to legislative updates.

Business Formation Calculator

Estimate LLC and corporation filing and maintenance fees by state. Figures are illustrative; confirm with the official filing office.

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Calculate formation costs

Illustrative totals for California. Fees and rules change; verify with the Secretary of State (or equivalent) before filing.

State

Entity type

Cost summary

Reflects LLC and add-ons below.

Filing fee: $70
First year total: $1020
5-year total (illustrative): $4820

Notes for California

$800 minimum franchise tax due annually
Additional LLC tax based on gross receipts

LLC and corporation costs in California

Base state fees side by side. Summary uses the entity type you selected.

LLCIn summary

Filing fee: $70
Annual report: $800 (Annual)
Publication: Not required
Processing: 5-7 business days
Registered agent: Required
Expedited: $350 (24 hours)

Corporation

Filing fee: $100
Annual report: $800 (Annual)
Publication: Not required
Processing: 5-7 business days
Registered agent: Required
Expedited: $350 (24 hours)

Additional services

Registered agent service (~$150/year)Expedited processing (+$350)

Disclaimer

Estimates only (not legal or tax advice). Filing fees and requirements change. Confirm processing times, forms, and exact fees with the official state business registration office before you rely on these numbers.

All 50 states ranked using the same first-year model as this calculator: SOS formation filing (including bundled companion fees where applicable), plus the annual report line when counted in year one, plus a midpoint for required publication ranges. Fees change; confirm with each filing office.

Lowest first-year (LLC)

1. IowaFiling $50$50
2. MissouriFiling $50$50
3. New MexicoFiling $50$50
4. KentuckyFiling $40$55
5. MontanaFiling $35$55

Highest first-year (LLC)

1. New YorkFiling $200$1,950
2. PennsylvaniaFiling $125$1,595
3. ArizonaFiling $50$1,050
4. MassachusettsFiling $520$1,040
5. CaliforniaFiling $70$870

Understanding formation costs

What filing fees usually cover

• State processing of formation documents
• Registration in the state business database
• Certificate of formation or articles of incorporation
• Initial registered agent designation
• Basic compliance setup

Other costs to plan for

• Registered agent: ~$50–$300/yr
• Operating agreement / bylaws: ~$100–$500
• EIN: free (IRS) or paid filing help
• Licenses: varies by industry
• Bank account: often $0–$100

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