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LLC Cost Calculator

Your state's filing fee plus true first-year cost.

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Total first-year cost
State filing fee
Annual report / franchise
Registered agent
State

Educational estimate. State fees change — verify with the Secretary of State.

How it works

We combine your state's one-time filing fee with its annual report or franchise fee, plus optional registered-agent and expedite costs, for your total first-year cost.

Watch annual fees: some states (e.g., California) add a recurring franchise tax far above the filing fee.

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The fees nobody warns you about

The headline filing fee is only part of LLC cost. Many states tack on an annual report fee or franchise tax that recurs every year — California’s $800 minimum franchise tax is the famous one, but Delaware, Massachusetts and others have their own. This calculator combines the one-time state filing fee with the recurring annual fee and optional registered-agent service to show your real first-year cost.

You don’t need to pay for formation

You can file the Articles of Organization yourself directly with the Secretary of State and act as your own registered agent for free. Formation services add convenience, not legal necessity. Your EIN from the IRS is also free. Where it’s worth paying is a registered agent if you want privacy or don’t have a fixed in-state address.

Good to know

FAQs

How much does an LLC cost?

A one-time state filing fee ($35–$500) plus any annual report or franchise fee. Some states add several hundred dollars a year.

Do I need a registered agent service?

No — you can be your own agent for free if you have an in-state address.

Is an EIN free?

Yes — you get an EIN directly from the IRS at no cost.

Are these fees current?

Fees change; verify with your Secretary of State.