LLC Formation
How to Start an LLC in 2026
A complete step-by-step guide to forming your LLC the right way, from choosing a state to getting your EIN and staying compliant.
LLC Formation and Business Tax Guides for Entrepreneurs
Clear, practical guides for freelancers, contractors, small business owners, and foreign founders setting up and managing US business the right way.
Business Setup Checklist
- Choose entity type
- Pick formation state
- File Articles of Organization
- Get EIN from IRS
- Open business bank account
- Choose tax classification
- Track deductions
- File annual reports
Where should you start?
I need to form an LLC
Step-by-step guides to choose a state, file paperwork, get an EIN, and launch your LLC.
Start LLC Formation →I already have an LLC and want to save on taxes
Learn how LLC tax classifications work and when an S-Corp election may save money.
Explore Tax Strategy →I want to understand deductions
See what business expenses may be deductible and how to keep proper records.
View Deduction Guides →I'm a non-US founder
Guides for foreign-owned US LLCs, EINs, tax forms, banking, and compliance.
Foreign-Owned LLCs →Explore Business Formation and Tax Topics
LLC Formation
State rules, filing fees, registered agents, EINs, operating agreements, and launch steps.
Explore →Tax Strategy
LLC taxation, S-Corp election, self-employment tax, payroll, and estimated taxes.
Explore →Deductions
Home office, vehicles, software, equipment, travel, meals, and contractor expenses.
Explore →Accounting
Bookkeeping basics, separate bank accounts, receipts, tax records, and accounting software.
Explore →Foreign-Owned LLCs
US LLCs for non-residents, EINs, tax forms, banking, ownership, and ongoing compliance.
Explore →State Guides
Compare LLC costs, annual reports, franchise taxes, privacy rules, and compliance by state.
Explore →Popular Guides
View all guides → Tax Strategy
LLC vs S-Corp: When Does It Save Money?
Compare taxes, payroll requirements, and savings potential to understand when an S-Corp election makes sense.
State Guides
Best States to Form an LLC in 2026
Compare filing fees, taxes, privacy rules, and annual compliance requirements across top LLC-friendly states.
LLC Formation
How to Get an EIN for an LLC
Step-by-step instructions to get your Employer Identification Number from the IRS online, by fax, or by mail.
Deductions
What Can an LLC Write Off?
The ultimate list of deductible business expenses for LLC owners, from home office to vehicles to software subscriptions.
Tax Strategy
Single-Member LLC Taxes Explained
How single-member LLCs are taxed by default, what forms to file, and what you need to know before tax season.
LLC Formation
Foreign-Owned US LLC Tax Guide
Taxes, forms, EINs, banks, and compliance for non-US owners forming an LLC in the United States.
Tax Strategy
S-Corp Election Deadline Explained
Key deadlines, IRS rules, and how to file Form 2553 on time so your LLC qualifies for S-Corp treatment.
State Guides
LLC Annual Report Requirements by State
A state-by-state breakdown of annual report filing requirements, deadlines, and fees for LLC owners.
LLC Formation Guides by State
Compare filing fees, annual reports, franchise taxes, privacy rules, and ongoing compliance requirements.
Free Business Tax Tools
Practical calculators and checklists to help you make smarter business and tax decisions.
LLC Formation Cost Calculator
Estimate total startup costs by state, including filing fees and ongoing compliance costs.
Use Tool →S-Corp Tax Savings Calculator
See how much you may save on self-employment tax with an S-Corp election.
Use Tool →Self-Employment Tax Estimator
Estimate your self-employment tax as a freelancer, contractor, or LLC owner.
Use Tool →Quarterly Tax Payment Estimator
Estimate quarterly tax payments based on business income and deductions.
Use Tool →Business Deduction Checklist
Review common deductible expenses and printable recordkeeping categories.
Use Tool →LLC Compliance Calendar
Track annual reports, renewals, filing deadlines, and tax reminders. Never miss a deadline.
Use Tool →Disclaimer: Information on this site is for educational purposes only and does not replace advice from a qualified CPA, attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Laws and rules change frequently. Always verify with official sources.