Form your LLC
without a lawyer
Filing fees range from $35 to $500 depending on your state. Our free guides walk you through every step — choose your state, file your articles, and get your EIN. No attorney required.
Three steps to your LLC
Choose your state
Pick where you operate (or a low-cost state like Wyoming or New Mexico). Compare fees, privacy, and ongoing requirements.
File articles of organization
Submit your formation document to the state — online in minutes. Pay the filing fee ($35–$500 depending on state).
Get your EIN
Apply free on IRS.gov in 10 minutes. Your EIN is like a Social Security number for your business — required for banking and taxes.
All 50 states
Click any state for full filing instructions, fees, and requirements.
Why form an LLC?
Personal liability protection
Your personal assets (home, car, savings) are shielded from business debts and lawsuits.
Pass-through taxation
Profits flow directly to your personal return by default — no corporate double taxation.
Credibility & banking
Open a business bank account, accept payments professionally, and build business credit.
Also from ByOwnerHub
More free guides for business owners doing it themselves.
Prefer to use a formation service?
These services handle the filing for you. Prices start at $0 plus your state fee.
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5 cheapest states to form an LLC
Compare all 50 states →Frequently asked questions
What is an LLC?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a business structure that combines the liability protection of a corporation with the tax simplicity of a sole proprietorship or partnership. Your personal assets are protected from business debts, and profits pass through to your personal tax return by default.
Do I need an attorney to form an LLC?
No. In all 50 states, you can file your own articles of organization directly with the Secretary of State — typically online. This site gives you everything you need: the exact form, fee, and filing instructions for your state. Complex situations (multi-member LLCs, operating agreements, estate planning) may benefit from an attorney, but the formation itself is DIY-friendly.
What is a registered agent?
Every LLC must designate a registered agent — a person or company with a physical address in the state who is available during business hours to receive legal documents and state correspondence. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a physical address in the state, or use a service ($50–$300/year).
Should I form in Wyoming, Delaware, or my home state?
Form in your home state if you're operating a local business — you'll need a foreign qualification anyway (adding cost and complexity) if you form elsewhere. Wyoming and Delaware make sense for: online businesses, businesses seeking outside investment, or when maximum privacy/asset protection matters. Wyoming has the strongest charging order protection.
How long does it take to form an LLC?
Standard processing ranges from 1 day (New Mexico) to 15 days (Alaska). Most states process in 3–7 business days. Expedited service (additional fee) can reduce processing to 24 hours in many states.