LLC Cost by State

State filing fees range from $35 (Montana) to $500 (Massachusetts). The cheapest first-year totals are around $50 (Arizona, Missouri, New Mexico, Mississippi); the priciest is Massachusetts at $1,000.

By state fees: Arizona, Missouri, New Mexico, or Mississippi at about $50 total with no annual fee. But forming out-of-state usually means registering as a foreign LLC where you actually operate — doubling your costs.

Only if you have a specific reason (raising venture capital favors Delaware C-corps, not LLCs). For a normal small business, form where you operate — otherwise you pay two states' fees plus a registered agent in each.

The $800 annual franchise tax applies from year one (the first-year exemption expired in 2024). A California LLC costs $870 in state fees its first year — the second-highest in the country.

NY requires publishing formation notice in two newspapers in the county of your office — $200+ upstate, $1,500+ in Manhattan — plus a $50 certificate of publication. It is the biggest hidden LLC cost in the US.

Yes, every state requires one with a physical address in the state. You can be your own agent if you have an in-state address, or pay a service $50–300/year.

Penalties first, then administrative dissolution — the state kills your LLC and you lose liability protection. Several "no fee" states still require the report itself.

Generally yes — formation costs and annual state fees are ordinary business expenses deductible on your tax return (formation costs may need amortizing over 15 years if large).

Online filings: often 1–7 business days. Mail filings: 2–6 weeks. Most states offer expedited processing for an extra $50–150.

Yes via domestication (if both states allow it) or by forming a new LLC and dissolving the old one. Domestication keeps your EIN and history; check both states' rules first.