LLC Filing Fees by State 2026
Compare every state's LLC formation cost — filing fees, annual reports, publication requirements, and franchise taxes — to find the best state for your business.
LLC Formation Cost Calculator
Select your state to see filing fees, annual report costs, and formation gotchas.
LLC Formation Costs — All 50 States
Year-1 estimate includes filing fee + publication (if required) + franchise tax. Annual report fees recur each year after formation.
State Filing Fee at a Glance
LLC Filing Fee — 2026 · Data from official state government sources
Browse by State
No states match your search.
Form Your LLC in Minutes
Trusted formation services like Northwest Registered Agent handle the paperwork for you — starting at $39 + state fees.
Start My LLC Today →How to Choose the Best State for Your LLC
The cheapest states to form an LLC by filing fee alone include Kentucky ($40), Colorado ($50), and Arkansas ($45). However, the total cost picture includes more than just the initial filing fee.
Here's what to consider when choosing where to form your LLC:
- Filing fee: One-time cost to register your LLC with the state. Ranges from $50 to $500+.
- Annual report / biennial fee: Recurring fee to keep your LLC in good standing. Some states (like New Mexico) charge no annual fee.
- Publication requirement: Three states — New York, Arizona, and Nebraska — require you to publish notice of your LLC formation in local newspapers. NY costs can exceed $1,200 in NYC.
- Franchise tax: Some states charge an annual minimum franchise or privilege tax regardless of revenue (e.g., Delaware's $300/year minimum).
- Registered agent: Every LLC needs a registered agent in its state of formation. Budget $50–$150/year if using a commercial service.
Should You Form in Delaware or Wyoming?
Delaware and Wyoming are popular among startups and investors for their business-friendly laws and strong privacy protections. However, if you're a small local business, forming in your home state is usually simpler and cheaper — you'll avoid paying fees in two states.
Need a Registered Agent?
Every LLC needs a registered agent in its formation state. Compare registered agent services starting from $49/year.