Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC.
About LLCs
What is an LLC?
An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a business structure that protects your personal assets from business debts and lawsuits. It combines the liability protection of a corporation with the tax flexibility and simplicity of a sole proprietorship or partnership.
Why should I form an LLC?
LLCs provide personal liability protection (your house, car, savings are protected if your business is sued), tax flexibility (choose how you want to be taxed), credibility (looks more professional than a sole proprietorship), and privacy (in some states, members can remain anonymous).
Do I need an LLC for my small business?
While not required, an LLC is recommended for most businesses. If there's any chance your business could be sued or incur debt, an LLC protects your personal assets. Even freelancers and consultants benefit from the liability protection.
Can I form an LLC by myself or do I need a lawyer?
You can absolutely form an LLC without a lawyer. The process is primarily paperwork - filing Articles of Organization with your state. Services like ours handle this paperwork for you. You only need a lawyer if you have complex ownership structures or specific legal questions.
What's the difference between an LLC and a corporation?
LLCs are simpler to operate - no required board meetings, annual reports (in most states), or rigid management structures. Corporations offer more flexibility for raising investment and issuing stock. Most small businesses are better suited as LLCs.
Forming Your LLC
What do I need to form an LLC?
You need: 1) A business name that's available in your state, 2) A registered agent address, 3) The names of members/managers, 4) A business address. That's it. We guide you through collecting all of this during our application process.
Which state should I form my LLC in?
In most cases, form your LLC in the state where you do business. Forming in Delaware or Wyoming only makes sense for specific situations (multiple investors, privacy concerns, etc.). We can help you understand which state is best for your situation.
How long does it take to form an LLC?
Processing times vary by state: Some states (like Texas) approve in 24-48 hours. Others (like New York) can take 1-2 weeks. Our Complete package includes rush processing where available. We'll give you an accurate timeline after you select your state.
What is a Registered Agent?
A registered agent is the official point of contact for your LLC. They receive legal documents, tax notices, and state correspondence on your behalf. Every LLC must have one with a physical address (not a P.O. Box) in the state of formation.
Can I be my own Registered Agent?
Yes, but it's not recommended. You must be available at the address during business hours, your address becomes public record, and if you're not home when papers are served, you could miss critical legal deadlines. Our registered agent service handles this for you.
Our Service
What does your service include?
We handle everything: name availability check, preparing your Articles of Organization, filing with the state, and delivering your approved documents. Higher tiers include registered agent service, EIN filing, operating agreement template, and compliance support.
Why use your service instead of filing myself?
You're paying for convenience and expertise. We know each state's requirements, catch common mistakes before they cause rejections, and handle the back-and-forth with the state. It's why people use TurboTax instead of paper forms.
Is LLCFile.org a law firm?
No. We're a document preparation and filing service. We prepare and file your LLC paperwork but don't provide legal advice. For legal questions about your specific situation, we recommend consulting with an attorney.
What if my application is rejected?
We fix it and refile at no additional cost. Common rejections (name conflicts, minor errors) are resolved quickly. If for any reason we can't complete your LLC formation, you get a full refund.
Pricing & State Fees
What's included in each pricing tier?
Starter ($0 + state fee): LLC filing, name check, digital documents. Professional ($149 + state fee): adds registered agent, EIN, operating agreement, priority processing. Complete ($299 + state fee): adds same-day processing, compliance calendar, dedicated support.
What are state filing fees?
Every state charges a fee to file your LLC. These fees range from $35 (Montana) to $500 (Massachusetts). We clearly show you the state fee for your chosen state during checkout. This fee is paid directly to the state.
Are there any hidden fees or subscriptions?
No hidden fees. The Starter package is genuinely free (you just pay state fees). Registered agent service renews annually if you want to continue it, but there's no auto-enrollment in anything.
Do you offer refunds?
Yes. If we can't complete your LLC formation for any reason, you get a full refund of our service fee. State fees are only charged once the state accepts your filing.
After Formation
What do I do after my LLC is formed?
Key next steps: 1) Get an EIN from the IRS (included in Professional+ packages), 2) Open a business bank account, 3) Create an operating agreement (template included in Professional+), 4) Get any required business licenses. We provide a checklist with your approved documents.
Do I need an EIN?
If your LLC has more than one member or will have employees, yes. Even single-member LLCs benefit from an EIN - it lets you open business bank accounts without using your SSN and adds a layer of privacy.
What is an Operating Agreement?
An operating agreement defines how your LLC is managed, how profits are split, and what happens if a member leaves. Even single-member LLCs should have one - it strengthens your liability protection and is required by some states.
Do LLCs have ongoing requirements?
Requirements vary by state. Most states require an annual or biennial report (simple form + small fee). Some states have franchise taxes. Our Complete package includes a compliance calendar so you never miss a deadline.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you quickly.