How To Setup Your LLC In 2024?
We took a look at all the best options if you want to start a business and file an LLC. You can do it yourself or select an online legal service to help you get started in under 10 minutes. If you want to do all the preparation by yourself, it is definitely possible. You might be able to save money by filing the documents on your own. However, the process of registering your business is time-consuming especially if this is your first one. You need to do the proper research and make sure you get the correct documents. A single mistake could set back the process and even cost you more money.
DIY: How to Register an LLC
1. Select which state you want to file in.
If you choose to file your business in your home state, that’s a great choice. If you are still uncertain about where to register your business, you can do some research on the states you are interested in and narrow down your choices.
2. Name Availability.
Use the US Trademark database to check the availability of the business name you have chosen. You need to do this to confirm that the business name you selected is unique. You also need to conduct a business entity search in the specific state you are filing in.
3. Get a Registered Agent
Although you can appoint yourself as a registered agent, we don’t recommend it for most businesses. It would be better to appoint a different registered agent who will handle business compliance for you.
4. Create an Operating Agreement
Operating Agreements are not required in many states, but we still recommended you create one for your business. An operating agreement is a key document that outlines functional and financial business decisions as well as the structure of the company, ownership, and the roles of the LLC members.
5. File the Articles of Organization and pay the state LLC filing fee
6. Get an Employer ID Number or EIN
Use a Filing Service to Register Your LLC
As mentioned earlier, online legal services can help make the process easier for those who want to register their business. You can get started on the paperwork with just a short questionnaire you can complete in 10 minutes. The best LLC filing services provide all the services you need to set up, manage, and expand your business. The cost of filing services typically goes from $49 to $350 depending on the package or plan that you choose.
Incfile
Pros
• Filing service starts at $0 plus state fees
• Free 1 Year Registered Agent
• 500,000+ businesses launched
• Available for S Corp, C Corp, LLC, and Nonprofit.
Cons
• No mention of bank accounts/website builder
Incfile is an award-winning business formation service provider. They offer LLC formation and incorporation services for free. You only need to pay the corresponding state filing fees. This free package is not as comprehensive as other basic plans from other providers but it still includes a lot of the core services such as unlimited name availability searches, Articles of Organization, and one-year free registered agent.
ZenBusiness
Pros
• Business formation starts at $49 plus state fees
• Registered Agent
• Lifetime support
• Worry-free compliance
Cons
• No services for nonprofit and corporation
ZenBusiness offers efficient and stress-free LLC formation services at affordable rates. With $49, you can file an LLC with ZenBusiness. They offer three plans to choose from– Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter Plan is offered at $49 and includes LLC preparation and filing, standard filing speed, operating agreement template, annual reports service, and a 100% accuracy guarantee.
