Skip to content
LLCAnswers

Plain answers about forming a company

The filing office already published the answer. We just read it for you.

Costs, timelines and requirements traced to the state agency or the IRS page that actually says so. No upsells dressed as advice, and we tell you when the free option is the right one.

Illustration of three overlapping formation documents on warm paper, the top one marked with a deep red band

Starting an LLC

How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC?

State filing fees run from about $50 to $500, plus recurring costs most guides skip. Verified against each state's filing office on 2 August 2026.

Read the evidence
Illustration of a single document on warm paper with a deep red band along one edge

Registered Agents

Can You Be Your Own Registered Agent?

Yes, in every state, if you meet three requirements. What the job actually is, what disqualifies you, and the four cases where paying is worth it.

Read the evidence
Illustration of two overlapping documents on warm paper, one marked with a deep red band

Business Structures

PLLC vs LLC: What Actually Changes

A PLLC is an LLC for licensed professionals. What it changes, what it does not protect you from, and why California bans the whole idea.

Read the evidence

How we decide what to recommend

  • Primary sources only. PubMed, NIH, and position stands, linked so you can check us.
  • Honest effect sizes. We report how much something helps, including “barely.”
  • One disclosed recommendation. At most one clearly-marked buying option per article, only if it’s worth it.
Read our editorial standards