Starting an LLC is more affordable than most people expect, but the total depends on two separate costs: the fee your state charges to register the company, and the fee you pay a formation service (like Incofile) to prepare and file everything correctly.
1. The state filing fee
Every US state charges a one-time fee to file your Articles of Organization — the document that legally creates your LLC. This fee is paid to the state, not to us, and it varies widely: roughly $35 to $500 depending on where you form. For example, some states are among the cheapest in the country while others cost several hundred dollars.
You can see the exact current fee for your state on our state pages — for instance, how to start an LLC in Florida, Texas, Wyoming or Delaware. The fee is always shown before you pay when you start an order.
2. The formation service fee
You can file with the state yourself, but most founders use a service to make sure the paperwork is right, get their EIN, and stay compliant. Incofile charges a flat, one-time fee — no monthly subscription:
- Silver — the essentials to get your LLC filed.
- Gold — adds your EIN/Tax ID, operating agreement and banking documents (what you need to open a business bank account).
- Platinum — adds expedited filing, tax consultation, and priority support.
See the full breakdown on our pricing page. Your total is simply the package price plus your state's filing fee.
3. Ongoing costs to plan for
An LLC is not just a one-time cost. Budget for these each year:
- Annual (or biennial) report — most states require a small report and fee to keep your LLC in good standing.
- Registered agent — you must have one in your state; Incofile can serve as yours.
- Franchise tax — a handful of states charge this regardless of profit.
The bottom line
To start an LLC, budget for your state filing fee plus a one-time service fee, then a small amount each year for your annual report and registered agent. There are no hidden charges with Incofile — everything is shown before you pay.
Not sure an LLC is the right structure? Compare an LLC vs S-Corp vs C-Corp first.