LLC Cost Breakdown: More Than the Filing Fee
First-year LLC cost usually includes the state filing fee, registered agent, annual report or franchise tax and optional expedite fees. States differ a lot: some have low filing but high annual costs, others the reverse.
Cost checklist
State filing (one-time) + registered agent (annual) + annual report/franchise tax (annual) + other (address/expedite/certified copy).
Operating in another state may require foreign qualification and another filing fee.
Ways to save
Acting as your own agent saves the fee but needs a real in-state address.
Skip expedite and premium bundles; spend the savings on compliance.
FAQ
Which state is cheapest?
It depends on where you operate; do not form elsewhere only for a low fee, as foreign qualification may apply.
Is the annual report required?
It depends on the state; missing it can cause penalties or dissolution.