How Much Does It Cost to Register an LLC in the US? (2026 Guide)

Choosing where to incorporate is a foundational decision for any entrepreneur. While the legal benefits of an LLC are consistent, the US LLC formation costs vary significantly by jurisdiction. Alongside your initial setup, securing professional accounting services in the US is the most effective way to maintain long-term compliance and navigate complex state-specific tax laws.

Quick Summary: 2026 LLC Registration Checklist

1. 2026 US Business Registration Fees

The following breakdown illustrates the total initial investment required for state registration in 2026. Listed ranges represent the price difference between standard processing and expedited priority handling available in each jurisdiction.

2. Beyond the Sticker Price: Why Fees Vary

Founders often see conflicting prices online because what looks like a “single fee” is actually a combination of base filing, expedited options, and bundled state reports. The variations you see in the table generally stem from these factors:

• Processing Speed: States differentiate between standard and expedited processing. For example, a standard Delaware LLC filing is 110 USD. To get faster approval, you can add an expedited surcharge, which explains why many founders pay between 160 USD and 210 USD for a quick turnaround.
• Entity Bundling: In states like Nevada, the core formation costs include Articles of Organization (75 USD), the Initial List of Managers (150 USD), and the State Business License (200 USD). This creates a mandatory state-level bundle of 425 USD, which is among the highest in the country.
• Mandatory Initial Reports: Maryland has a base filing of 100 USD, but many founders choose to pay the 300 USD Annual Report fee upfront to ensure good standing from day one, resulting in the 458 USD figure often seen in professional quotes.

3. Post-Formation: Total Cost of Ownership

The registration fee is only the first step. To keep your entity ready for growth, you must budget for recurring obligations:

• Annual Franchise Taxes: California imposes a minimum 800 USD annual franchise tax on most LLCs, even if the business has zero income. Other states require annual reports ranging from 50 USD to 300 USD.
• BOI Reporting: Requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act have undergone major changes. As of 2026, FinCEN interim rules generally exempt U.S.-formed domestic entities from mandatory BOI reporting, though foreign entities registered in the U.S. may still be required to file.
• Registered Agent Fees: Maintaining a legal point of contact typically costs between 100 USD and 300 USD per year through professional services.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which state is the cheapest for LLC formation?

Montana currently offers the lowest entry point with a base filing fee starting at 35 USD. However, you should consider long-term taxes, not just the initial fee.

2. Does the state fee include an EIN?

No. The state fee only covers your registration with the Secretary of State. Your EIN (Employer Identification Number) is issued separately by the IRS, which does not charge a fee for the application.

3. Can I change my state of formation later?

Yes, through a process called domestication, but it involves additional legal fees and state filings. It is much more cost-effective to choose the right state from the beginning.

4. How long does the registration take?

Standard processing takes 4 to 6 weeks in most states. If you pay for expedited handling, many states can approve your LLC within 24 to 48 hours.

5. Is a registered agent mandatory?

Yes. Every US state requires an LLC to maintain a registered agent with a physical address in that state to receive official legal documents and tax notices.