How Much Does an LLC Cost in North Carolina?
Every North Carolina LLC cost for 2026: the state filing fee, the annual report, registered agent, and what you actually pay in year one. Reviewed by IRS Enrolled Agents.
The short answer
An LLC in North Carolina costs $125 in one-time state filing fees. The annual report is $200 a year, due April 15. With Gullia Filing your total first-year cost is $524, which includes the state fee, our flat $199 service fee, registered agent, EIN and operating agreement.
North Carolina LLC cost breakdown
| Cost | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee (Articles of Organization) | $125 | One time |
| Expedited processing (optional) | +$100 | One time, 24 hours |
| Annual Report | $200 | Yearly, due April 15 |
| Registered agent | $99 to $299 (free first year with us) | Yearly |
| EIN / Federal Tax ID | Free with Gullia Filing | One time |
| Operating agreement | Included | One time |
| Gullia Filing service fee | $199 | One time, flat |
| Total first year with Gullia Filing | $524 | All in |
3.99% flat personal income tax (2026, scheduled under G.S. 105-153.7 after the phased reduction from 4.99% in 2022) on NC-resident LLC members. C-Corp elections pay 2.5% corporate income tax plus franchise tax.
What founders in North Carolina overpay for
- Annual report fee ($200) is one of the highest in the US for a simple report.
- North Carolina requires the Annual Report electronically only, paper filings are rejected.
- Late filing penalties. $25 + administrative dissolution after 60 days
- Franchise tax. No LLC franchise tax on pass-through LLCs. C-Corp elections owe franchise tax of $200 minimum.
Compare nearby states
North Carolina LLC cost FAQs
Start your North Carolina LLC for $524
State fee, filing, registered agent, EIN and operating agreement. One price, no upsells at checkout.
