Business Guide
Learn everything you need to establish and operate a US LLC. From choosing the right state to managing compliance, MakeLLC guides you through every step.
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Getting Started
Information on the basics of forming a business, comparing entity types, and choosing the right state for your business.
LLC Essentials
Key concepts every LLC owner should understand: documentation, Registered Agent, and Tax ID.
Banking
Opening a business bank account, EIN requirements, and options for non-residents.
Compliance
The ongoing requirements to keep your LLC in good standing with the state.
Taxes
Tax basics for LLCs: how taxes work, deadlines, and strategies.
International Founders
A special guide for non-US founders establishing and operating a US LLC.
Getting Started
LLC Formation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Forming an LLC is simple. This guide walks you through each step, from choosing your state to receiving your formation documents.
How to Choose the Right State for Your LLC
You can form an LLC in any of the 50 US states. The right choice depends on your specific situation. Learn how to decide.
LLC vs. Corporation: Which Should You Choose?
Compare LLCs and Corporations to understand the tax, liability protection, and formality requirements for your business.
LLC Formation Costs: State-by-State Breakdown
Understand all costs involved in forming an LLC, including state fees, registered agent fees, and ongoing costs.
Getting Started with Your US LLC
A comprehensive overview of LLC formation basics, entity comparison, and state selection for entrepreneurs.
LLC Essentials
Registered Agent: What They Are & Why You Need One
Every LLC needs a registered agent to receive legal documents. Learn about this requirement and whether you should use a professional service.
Articles of Organization: What They Are and What They Include
Learn about the Articles of Organization, the official document filed with the state to form your LLC.
Operating Agreement: Why Every LLC Needs One
An Operating Agreement outlines how your LLC will operate. Learn why it is essential even for single-member LLCs.
EIN (Tax ID): When You Need One and How to Apply
An EIN is your business tax ID number. It is free to get and essential for banking, taxes, and employment.
How to Choose and Register Your LLC Business Name
Learn the rules for naming your LLC and how to check name availability in your chosen state.
LLC Essentials: Everything You Need to Know
A comprehensive overview of essential LLC concepts, including formation documents, management structures, and naming rules.
Banking
How to Open a Business Bank Account for Your LLC
A step-by-step guide to opening a business bank account for your LLC, including required documents and types of banks to consider.
Why You Need an EIN to Open a Business Bank Account
Most banks require an EIN to open a business account. Learn why and how to get one quickly.
Banking Options for Non-US Residents
Explore banking options available to non-US residents with a US LLC, including online-only banks like Mercury.
Compliance
Annual Reports: Requirements & Deadlines
Most states require LLCs to file periodic reports to keep their information up-to-date. Missing deadlines can result in fines or dissolution.
Franchise Tax: What It Is and How to Pay It
Learn what franchise tax is, which states require it, and how it differs from income tax.
Maintaining Your LLC: Ongoing Requirements
Keep your LLC in good standing by understanding ongoing requirements like annual filings, fees, and record-keeping.
State Compliance Guide for LLCs
Understand state-specific compliance requirements for your LLC to avoid penalties and maintain good standing.
Taxes
LLC Tax Filing Guide: The Complete Overview
Understand your LLC's tax filing options, from pass-through taxation to corporate tax filing.
S-Corp Election for LLCs: When It Makes Sense
Learn when and how an LLC should elect S-Corp status to save on self-employment taxes.
Sales Tax Nexus: What LLC Owners Need to Know
Understand sales tax nexus and when your LLC may be required to collect and remit sales tax.
Self-Employment Tax for LLC Owners
Learn about self-employment tax rates, calculations, and strategies to minimize your tax burden as an LLC owner.
Important Tax Deadlines for LLCs
Never miss a filing deadline. Here are the key tax dates every LLC owner should know.
International Founders
How to Form a US LLC as a Non-Resident
The ultimate guide to forming and running a US LLC for international entrepreneurs, without visiting the US.
Best States for Foreign LLC Owners
Compare the best US states for foreign entrepreneurs forming an LLC, including Wyoming, Delaware, and New Mexico.
How to Get an EIN Without an SSN
A step-by-step guide for foreign LLC owners to obtain an EIN without a Social Security Number.
US Tax Obligations for Foreign LLC Owners
Understand your US tax filing requirements as a non-resident LLC owner, including treaty benefits.
International Founders Guide: Overview
A comprehensive guide for non-US founders covering everything from formation to banking to compliance.
Popular Articles
LLC vs Corporation: Which is Right for You?
Compare the differences between LLCs and Corporations in terms of taxes, liability protection, operational flexibility, and fundraising.
8 minArticles of Organization: Complete Guide
A comprehensive guide to the Articles of Organization, the official document that creates your LLC.
6 minFAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
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