LLC guides, practical advice for new founders
Starting a LLC is one of the smartest moves you can make for your business. But the process? It can get confusing, especially when you're doing it for the first time.
Our guides walk you through everything from formation to compliance, taxes to banking. No jargon, no fluff, just practical advice you can actually use.
Featured guide
What do LLC services actually do?
If you're new to LLC formation, start here. This guide breaks down what these services actually handle, what's still on you, and whether you even need one.
Getting started
New to the LLC process? These guides cover the basics.
Can you start a LLC yourself?
Yes, you can. But should you? We break down the pros and cons of DIY filing versus using a service.
What is an EIN and why do you need it?
Your business needs a tax ID. We’ll walk you through what an EIN is, how to grab one, and why it actually matters.
Do you need an operating agreement?
It's not required in every state, but skipping it is a mistake. Here's why.
Paperwork checklist before filing a LLC
Everything you need to grab before you kick off the filing.
Hidden risks of sole proprietorship
Why so many freelancers and small business owners kick themselves for not starting a LLC earlier.
Costs & pricing
Understand exactly what you’ll pay to form and keep your LLC going.
Every cost of starting a LLC
The Analysis. State fees, service fees, registered agent costs, and more.
How much does a LLC really cost in the first year?
The real number, with examples from different states and service tiers.
Annual costs of owning a LLC
It's not just the formation fee. Here's what you'll pay every year to stay compliant.
Is inc authority really free?
We break down exactly what "free" means and what you really end up paying.
Are LLC services worth paying for?
The honest answer on whether to pay a service or file yourself.
Common mistakes
Learn from other people's screw ups so you don't have to.
Biggest mistake choosing a LLC service
Most founders chase the wrong stuff. Here’s what really counts.
Mistakes first-time LLC owners make
The most common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
The $199 EIN mistake every founder makes
Don't pay for something you can get for free. Here’s the trap.
Why most people don't need expedited filing
Save your money. Unless you have a real urgent need, standard filing works just fine.
Why is legalzoom so expensive?
What you’re really paying for when you pick the most famous name out there.
Compliance & maintenance
Keep your LLC in good standing with these guides.
How to keep your LLC compliant
Annual reports, franchise taxes, and all the stuff you need to keep things legit.
Annual reports explained
What they are, why they matter, and what happens if you skip them.
How to avoid administrative dissolution
Don’t let your LLC get dissolved by the state. Here’s how to stay compliant.
Can you switch registered agents?
Yes, and here’s how. Also, when you should think about making the switch.
What is a certificate of good standing?
When you need one, how to get it, and what it costs in every state.
LLC tax surprises for new owners
Taxes are complicated. Here’s what new LLC owners usually don’t see coming.
Why a LLC won't protect you from lawsuits
The limits of liability protection and why you still need insurance.
Business license research for your LLC
Find out which federal, state, and local licenses your business really needs.
Banking & money
Get your finances in order after forming your LLC.
How to open a business bank account after LLC formation
a cheat sheet to getting your business banking set up.
How much money do you need before filing a llc?
What to have in the bank before you start the formation process.
When can you start accepting payments?
The timeline for getting paid after you form your LLC.
Is EIN service worth paying for?
You can get an EIN for free. So why do services charge for it?
After formation
What to do once your LLC is approved.
Your first week after LLC approval
Alright, so you’ve got the green light. Now what? First thing, don’t overthink it. You just move. Start with the next step, the smallest one that makes sense. That’s it. No big plan, no waiting around. Just get going and adjust as you go. You’ll figure out the rest once you’re in motion.
Which LLC upsells are actually useful?
Some add-ons are worth it. Others are a total waste. We’ll tell you which ones to grab and which to skip.
Planning & strategy
Decide when and where to form your LLC.
When to form a LLC for your side hustle
The right time to make your side business official.
5 signs your freelancing outgrew sole proprietorship
How to know when it’s time to upgrade to a LLC.
How to talk to your employer about your side business
Navigating the conversation about your side hustle.
How to use a virtual address for LLC privacy
Keep your home address out of public records with a virtual address.
What happens if you start selling before your LLC is approved?
The risks of operating before your formation is complete.
Still have questions?
Not sure where to start? Check out our best LLC service for beginners guide. It walks you through picking the right one and getting going.
You can also browse our service reviews for Analysiss of each provider, or use our comparison pages to see how services stack up against each other.