How much does it really cost to form an LLC?

Most people budget only the state filing fee ($35–$520 depending on state) and are surprised to find the true first-year cost is $300–$900+. Hidden costs include a registered agent ($100–$300/yr), operating agreement ($0 DIY to $500+ with a lawyer), and annual report fees that kick in year 2.

Is the EIN for an LLC free?

Yes — applying for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) directly from the IRS at irs.gov is completely free. Many LLC formation services charge $50–$159 for this service, but you can do it yourself at no cost in about 10 minutes online.

Which state is cheapest to form an LLC?

Montana has the lowest filing fee at $35. Wyoming ($100) and New Mexico ($50) are popular for low ongoing costs and privacy protections. However, if you operate in another state, you'll also need to register as a foreign LLC there, which adds cost. Forming in your home state is usually cheapest if you operate locally.

How Much Does It Cost to Form an LLC? 2026 Calculator by State

Your Numbers

Your situation

State of formation

What do you need?

Registered agent

Required in most states; you can serve as your own

Operating agreement

Not legally required in most states, but recommended

EIN (federal tax ID)

Free direct from IRS — don't pay a service for this

Formation service

File yourself or use a service

Results

Select your state to see the true first-year cost of your LLC — including every fee most people miss.

Your LLC cost breakdown

State filing fee

Secretary of State

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Registered agent (year 1)

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Operating agreement

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EIN / federal tax ID

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Formation service fee

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State-specific cost

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Total year 1 cost
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Ongoing annual cost (yr 2+)

Annual report + registered agent

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