LLC Filing Fees by State
Compare LLC and corporation formation fees across all 50 US states — plain tables, no signup, no forms.
Every state sets its own LLC and corporation fees. Use the table below to compare initial filing fees, annual costs, and total first-year cost, then open a state page for the full breakdown.
| State | Initial fee | Annual fee | First-year total | No income tax |
|---|
Source: state secretary of state fee schedules, compiled 2026. Verify with the official agency before filing.
Top 5 cheapest states to form an LLC
- Arkansas — $45 initial, low ongoing cost.
- Kentucky — $40 initial, no annual report fee.
- Arizona / Colorado / Missouri / Mississippi / New Mexico — $50 initial with minimal annual costs.
- Wyoming — $100 initial, $60 annual, no state income tax.
- Hawaii — $50 initial, $15 annual report.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an LLC and a corporation?
An LLC (limited liability company) is flexible, pass-through taxed, and simpler to run. A corporation issues shares and is better for outside investment and employee equity plans. Both limit your personal liability.
Do I need to form an LLC in my home state?
You can form in any state, but if you do business in your home state you usually still register there (foreign qualification). For most small owners, forming in the state where you operate is simplest and cheapest.
What are ongoing compliance requirements?
Most states require an annual or biennial report, and some charge a franchise tax. Missing deadlines can trigger late fees or administrative dissolution.
Is the cheapest state always the best?
No. Fees are one factor; also weigh taxes, privacy, courts, and how much business you do locally. Wyoming and New Mexico are cheap, but California offers a large local market at a high annual cost.
Do these tables give legal or tax advice?
No. StateFeeCompare is a reference only. Fees change with legislation — confirm current amounts with the state agency or a licensed professional before filing.