Lesson 4 of 15
LLC costs and timelines
There are three cost layers: the one-off state fee, the recurring state fee, and optional services you may or may not need.
One-off costs
- State filing fee for the Articles of Organization
- Optional expedited processing fee where the state offers it
- Optional name reservation fee
- Certified copies or a certificate of good standing if a bank asks for one
Recurring costs
- Annual or biennial report fee in most states
- Franchise tax or minimum annual tax in some states
- Registered agent service if you do not act as your own
- Local business licence renewals where applicable
Timelines
Online filing is faster than paper almost everywhere. In fast states approval can arrive within a few business days. Slower states, or filings submitted by mail, can take several weeks. Expedited options usually cut this to one to two business days for an extra fee.
An EIN can be issued the same day if you apply online with a Social Security Number or ITIN. Without one, the fax or mail route takes longer.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I see my state's exact fee?
Our cost pages list the current filing fee, annual report fee and deadline for every state.
Are formation service fees the same as state fees?
No. State fees go to the government. Service fees pay for preparation, filing and support. We show them separately.
Prefer to have someone handle the filing?
You can file directly with the state using the steps above. If you would rather have Gullia Filing prepare and file your formation documents, run the name check and act as your registered agent, we handle the process end to end.