8 months ago · Updated 3 weeks ago
The Complete LLC Formation Guide for All 50 States
Clear, state-specific guidance to start an LLC without guessing. Compare filing fees, understand the steps, use free planning tools, and choose whether to file yourself or get professional help.
Not sure where to start? Build your LLC plan.
Answer a few questions and get a clearer formation route based on your state, priorities and setup. Use the tool to move from “I don't know what I need” to a practical list of next steps.
Free · No signup required · Built for all 50 states
Can you really start an LLC for $50?
Sometimes — but the phrase can be misleading. A low state filing fee and a low formation-service fee are not the same thing. Before paying, separate the mandatory state fee from optional service charges and ongoing compliance costs.
Want someone to handle the filing? Start with Northwest.
Northwest Registered Agent currently advertises LLC formation for $39 + state fees. The formation package includes one year of registered agent service, and Northwest emphasizes privacy and human support.
Straight answers before you form your LLC
These are the decisions that repeatedly confuse first-time owners. The short answer comes first; the deeper guide is one click away.
“Should I form in Wyoming or Delaware if I live somewhere else?”
Usually not. If you actually operate in your home state, forming elsewhere can mean foreign qualification, another registered agent and another layer of compliance.
See which state makes sense →“Do I need an LLC before I make my first dollar?”
Not every business must begin as an LLC. The trade-off is liability protection, administration and cost. Compare the structures before filing.
LLC vs sole proprietorship →“Can I form an LLC myself instead of paying a service?”
Yes. You can file directly with your state. The formation document is usually filed with the state's business filing office; if you're forming in Kentucky, our Kentucky Articles of Organization guide walks through the state filing process. A formation service is optional and mainly useful if you prefer help with paperwork, registered-agent service or setup.
Find your state filing guide →“Do I get the EIN before or after forming the LLC?”
After. The IRS says to form the legal entity with your state first, then apply for the EIN.
Follow the EIN guide →“Do I really need a registered agent?”
LLCs need a registered agent in their formation state. You may be able to serve as your own agent if you meet your state's requirements, or hire a professional service.
Registered agent guide →“Can I really get an LLC for only $50?”
In some cases the state filing fee is around that level, but advertised formation prices can exclude mandatory state charges. Check the full cost before you file.
Read the $50 LLC cost breakdown →Free Planning Tools
Use them before you spend anything.
Popular State Guides
High-demand filing guides.
After Your LLC Is Approved
Keep the setup moving in the right order.
- Get your EINFederal tax ID
- Open a business bank accountSeparate finances
- Check license requirementsState + local rules
- Set up a business addressPrivacy + mail
- Review business insuranceRisk protection
Learn the decisions that matter before you file
Starting a U.S. LLC without an SSN?
Non-U.S. owners often have different EIN and banking questions. Start with the dedicated EIN guide for non-residents instead of relying on U.S.-resident assumptions.
EIN for non-U.S. residents →¿Prefieres las guías en español?
Accede al hub en español de LLC Starters con guías de formación y recursos adaptados para lectores hispanohablantes.
Ver guías LLC en español →Ready to start your LLC?
Choose your state for a step-by-step filing guide, or use the free LLC Tool to build a personalized route first.