Form an LLC Quickly and Legally
To enjoy the limited liability protection and tax benefits LLCs—the abbreviation for Limited Liability Companies—offer, it's important that your documents are prepared and filed correctly. LegalShield attorneys can do it for you.
Don’t Wrestle With a Form, Work With a Firm
While forming an LLC online on your own may seem like the easiest route short-term, it could end up costing you time and money long-term. Working with a business attorney will ensure you meet the federal, state and industry-specific requirements for your LLC.
Many “start a business services” offer confusing online forms that ask r hard questions and then spit out a generic document that you have to file yourself. These automated services leave people confused and frustrated.
Launch by LegalShield is different. You work with a local business attorney who will talk to you about your new business, make sure an LLC is the best option , complete all necessary paperwork, and form your LLC for you.
Limited Liability Company (LLC) Overview & FAQs
What is an LLC? An LLC is a business structure that classifies your business as separate from you individually and allows you to run your business in a more professional manner than a sole proprietorship.
What are the benefits of operating my business as an LLC? An LLC protects your personal assets (like your home and personal bank accounts) from business lawsuits and debt, offers flexible tax options that allow you to avoid double taxation and gives you the ability to open business bank accounts, hire employees,and apply for business licenses and permits.
What are the specific tax advantages of an LLC? LLCs allow their business owners to pass profits and losses through to their personal federal tax returns, rather than paying first corporate taxes on the profits and then separate personal taxes when the money is distrubed from the business. LLCs can also elect corporate taxation by filing IRS Form 8832 if they wish to take advantage of lower tax rates or other tax strategies.
How does an LLC differ from S Corporations and C Corporations? Incorporation has more formal requirements (such as having to issue stock), fewer tax options, and requires a more complex management structure and annual reporting. LLCs also don’t have a requirement to file annual reports in most states.
What are the different types of LLCs? In looking to create an LLC, you can choose between single-member or multi-member LLCs, as well as between member-managed or manager-managed LLCs. Also there are holding LLCs for investment or passive activity as opposed to operating business LLCs.
A Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) is a type of LLC that can be used by certain professions that require licenses, like doctors or lawyers. While it offers many of the same benefits of LLCs, a PLLC is limited in who can form one, and, in some states, who can be a member. Typically states require most or all members of a PLLC to be licensed professionals, and some states may require licensed professionals to form PLLCs rather than LLCs. Importantly, PLLCs also don’t guard members against liability for malpractice.
Do I need an attorney to form an LLC? Having an experienced business attorney help you set up your LLC makes the process much faster and less stressful. Also, you will know your LLC was set up correctly and legally.
Do I need an LLC operating agreement? Many states don’t require an operating agreement for LLCs, but they are nevertheless crucial to have to avoid conflict or disagreements over the rules and operation of the company in the case of multi-member LLCs, as well as to ensure protection against personal liability.
The LLC Formation Process
Here are the decisions you need to make to create an LLC.
- Decide if an LLC is the best option for your specific needs
- Pick a business name and make sure it won’t infringe on any existing copyrights or trademarks or existing business names with a business name search
- Select a registered agent service that agrees to accept legal documents on behalf of the LLC
- Decide if your LLC will be Member Managed or have formal Managers
- Download, fill out and submit LLC Articles of Organization to the Secretary of State
- Apply for an IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN)
If any of the above steps seem complicated or overwhelming, don’t worry. Launch by LegalShield allows you to consult with a local business attorney who will advise you on the right direction for your business entity and prepare and file all of the LLC paperwork for you.
The Cost of Forming an LLC + Ongoing Legal Support
Launch by LegalShield is a one time fee of $145. Every state requires filing fees (typically $50 - $450). You can check your state filing fees by using our handy calculator. EIN numbers are issued by the IRS for free.
The good news is that LegalShield makes forming an LLC simple, fast and affordable. The even better news is that we include three months of our small business legal plan for no additional charge.
If you have questions about obtaining business licenses and permits, need an operating agreement or other business documents reviewed or want your attorney to make phone calls to help negotiate an office lease, it’s all included for one payment of $145. Seriously.
No other company offers anything close to what’s included in Launch by LegalShield.
How It Works
Get support in three easy steps. It’s that simple.
Sign up for Launch by LegalShield, and then head to accounts.legalshield.com to set up your account.
Download our app, it's like having an attorney in your pocket. Our customer service agents are available 24/7 to help guide you.
From the app you can choose to call your law firm, submit a traffic ticket, start your Will or other documents, request emergency legal help, and more. It’s that easy.
Only $145 + State Filing Fees
