We’ve compiled the most common fees so you know exactly what to expect when starting your Delaware LLC.
Before you form your LLC, let’s walk through the most common filing fees you’ll encounter. Nervous to get started? Don’t be. We’ve done this for more than 500,000 businesses.
If you want our help, we can form your Delaware LLC for only $0 plus state fees. Just click the Start My Business button below.
We’ll break down the LLC cost in Delaware, and then show you how to start your LLC.
In addition to the $140
initial fee, there are other fees to consider when you start an LLC in Delaware.
LLCs are required to file and pay a $300 franchise tax every year. You can pay this fee online, and it needs to be submitted by June 1 to avoid late fees.
Every Delaware LLC is required to have a registered agent. You can act as your own registered agent for free, or you can have someone serve as your registered agent.
Our registered agent services make it easy for you. We’ll serve as your registered agent and handle any requirements without any work from you.
A certificate of good standing, which has different names in other states, ensures that your LLC is in good standing with the state. It builds confidence with customers and may be required by banks to open business bank accounts or by lenders.
The cost of a certificate of good standing in Delaware is $50.
Not quite ready to open your LLC? If you have your dream name already in mind, you can reserve the business name for a fee of $75. This will reserve your name for up to 120 days.
Failure to pay required fees means that you aren’t compliant and can’t receive a Certificate of Existence.
Failure to pay required fees means that you aren’t compliant and can’t receive a Certificate of Existence.
You may get slapped with penalties and be unable to obtain a Certificate of Existence when you need one.
You may get slapped with penalties and be unable to obtain a Certificate of Existence when you need one.
The Delaware Division of Corporations receives your payments.
Fees depend on the type of business and documentation required.
Pay online using ACH Checking or Savings account or charging a Visa, Master Card, American Express, or Discover card. Send a check if submitting by mail.
It’s time to introduce yourself! All limited liability companies (LLCs) need a unique name. Naming your Delaware LLC is one of the first things you’ll need to do.
Already have the perfect business name? Keep a few things in mind:
Regardless of the business entity you create, your new company needs to meet these requirements. Luckily, we’re here to help.
First, run your business name through our business name checker. If it’s available, you can either reserve it now or plan to use it when you file for your Delaware LLC.
Becoming a business owner is an exciting time, and securing the perfect business name is a great way to start.
Name your LLC
Enter your desired business name to get started
All Delaware LLCs need to have a registered agent. Your registered agent is your LLC’s point of contact with the state it’s registered in.
Most importantly, the registered agent has to be available during business hours because they’re responsible for accepting legal notices (like if your company is sued).
If a registered agent is used for a Delaware LLC, the person needs to be a Delaware resident or have a Delaware address.
You can serve as your own registered agent as long as you have a physical street address in Delaware, but it might be a good idea to have someone else represent your company.
For a small fee, the company will guarantee that they’re available and at the given address to handle any requirements for you. It’s one less thing for you to worry about as a business owner.
Before legally operating a Delaware LLC, you need to file a Certificate of Formation with the Corporate Section of the Secretary of State, along with the one-time filing fee of $300. You already know that part.
You can check your LLC’s status at the Delaware Secretary of State’s business governance website. Delaware accepts filings online or by fax, mail, or personal delivery.
You can file your LLC online with the Delaware Secretary of State’s office, or download this form and mail it to them (along with your $300 filing fee) at:
Delaware Division of Corporations
401 Federal St.
Suite 4
Dover, DE 19901
We suggest that every business owner drafts an operating agreement. But it’s not required when you file an LLC.
Operating agreements:
You won’t regret having an LLC operating agreement. Utilizing an Operating Agreement template can set you up for success regarding having the right business structure and format for this important document.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) officially registers your company with the federal government. Also known as Federal Tax ID Numbers, EINs are typically required to open a business bank account, get business credit cards or hire employees.
Apply for an EIN on the IRS website, or use our EIN service when you form your LLC and we’ll handle that for you too.
You’re all set! You’ve successfully formed your Delaware LLC with the state. So you’re done, right? Almost.
Delaware LLCs have to file and pay an annual franchise tax by March 15. As part of filing the annual franchise tax reports, you’ll file a Public Information Report (PIR) with an updated list of the officers/directors and managers. Learn more about your Delaware business taxes.
If you don’t file your annual franchise report on time, you’ll have to pay a penalty when you file. If you don’t pay on time, the state charges a penalty for each day late and interest after 61 days.
To avoid costly fees, use our Annual Report Service to receive important notifications and help to file your annual report.
You might need to make certain changes to your business over time. For example, you may get a new registered agent or change your business address. Delaware needs to be aware of these changes to your LLC.
Some changes require an amendment with the state. Learn more about Delaware LLC amendments.
We offer a Worry-Free Compliance Service, which includes two amendments every year, to help your business stay compliant with Delaware law.
Running a legal business entity in Delaware doesn’t have to be complicated. We’re here to guide you. We’ll help you launch, start and run your new LLC.
Our experts will help you file and avoid costly mistakes and penalties. We also offer endless amounts of business resources to help your LLC succeed in Delaware.
Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only, and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.
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