Choose State and Name
2-4 hoursCompare filing fees, annual reports, and privacy rules; verify business name availability with secretary of state.
Field context
This workflow is part of 4 niche fields
Free step-by-step llc formation for new entrepreneurs. Plan llc formation with calculators and checklists covering choose state and name, file formation.
Compare filing fees, annual reports, and privacy rules; verify business name availability with secretary of state.
Prepare Articles of Organization, registered agent, and initial filing fees.
Apply for IRS EIN, open business bank account, and separate personal finances.
Plan quarterly estimated taxes, sales tax registration, and annual report deadlines.
Estimate state filing, registered agent, and legal template costs.
Plan quarterly estimated tax payments after LLC income begins.
Estimate SE tax on LLC net profit.
Model reasonable salary if electing S-corp later.
Typical first-year costs for single-member LLC.
| State | Filing Fee | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | $100 | $60 |
| California | $70 | $800 min franchise |
| Texas | $300 | $0 report |
| Delaware | $90 | $300 franchise |
Commingling funds pierces liability protection — use business account for all revenue and expenses.
S-corp election saves SE tax when net profit exceeds ~$60k — not needed at launch.
Secretary of state websites charge less than formation service upsells.