Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in Georgia can be an exciting opportunity, but it’s important to be aware of the costs involved. Whether you choose to form your LLC yourself or enlist the help of a formation service, there are various expenses to consider. The total cost can range from around $100 for a basic DIY formation to several hundred dollars when using professional services.
Here at The Law Dictionary, we’ve simplified complex legal requirements into clear, actionable insights to help you navigate the LLC formation process in Georgia. Our aim is to give you a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved, helping you make informed decisions for your business.
How Much Does an LLC Cost in Georgia?
When forming an LLC in Georgia, you have two primary options: doing it yourself or using a professional LLC formation service. The DIY approach can save you money upfront but requires more time and effort on your part. You’ll need to research and complete all necessary paperwork, which can be time-consuming and potentially confusing. On the other hand, using an LLC formation service comes with a higher initial cost but offers convenience, expertise, and peace of mind.
We strongly recommend using an LLC formation service for your Georgia LLC. These services ensure accuracy, save you time, and often provide additional valuable features like registered agent services and compliance assistance.
Cost Breakdown for Georgia
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs associated with forming an LLC in Georgia:
Requirement | Cost |
Articles of Organization | $100 (online) or $110 (mail/in-person) |
Name Reservation (optional) | $25 |
Registered Agent | $0-$300 per year |
Operating Agreement | $0-$200 |
EIN (Employer Identification Number) | $0 |
Annual Registration | $50 (online) or $60 (mail) |
Business Licenses and Permits | Varies by location and industry |
As you can see, the minimum cost to form an LLC in Georgia is $100, which covers the state filing fee for your Articles of Organization. However, additional expenses may apply depending on your specific needs and choices.
Georgia Articles of Organization Cost
The cornerstone of forming your Georgia LLC is filing the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. This crucial document officially establishes your LLC in the eyes of the state. The filing fee is $100 if you submit online, or $110 if you choose to file by mail or in person. We recommend filing online for faster processing and a slightly lower fee.
Georgia Registered Agent Costs
Each Georgia LLC is required to appoint a registered agent to receive official correspondence and legal documents on behalf of the business. While you can act as your own registered agent at no cost, we strongly advise using a professional registered agent service. These services typically charge between $100 and $300 per year, offering benefits like privacy protection and reliable document handling.
Operating Agreement Costs in Georgia
Although Georgia doesn’t legally require an operating agreement, we highly recommend creating one for your LLC. This document outlines your company’s ownership structure and operating procedures. You can draft one yourself for free using online templates, or you can have a professional service or attorney create one for you, which may cost up to $200 or more.
Annual Georgia Fees and Taxes
To maintain your LLC’s good standing in Georgia, you’ll need to file an annual registration and pay the associated fee. This costs $50 if filed online or $60 if filed by mail. It’s due by April 1st each year, and we recommend setting a reminder to avoid late fees. Additionally, although most LLCs in Georgia are exempt from franchise taxes, it’s advisable to consult a tax professional to fully understand your specific tax obligations.
Additional Costs To Consider
When budgeting for your Georgia LLC, keep in mind potential additional expenses. These may include business licenses or permits specific to your industry or location, which can vary widely in cost. You might also consider optional services like expedited filing (ranging from $100 to $1,000 depending on processing speed) or obtaining a DBA (Doing Business As) name, which has varying fees by county.
Cost of Professional LLC Formation Services in Georgia
Opting for a professional LLC formation service can greatly streamline the process of starting your LLC in Georgia. These services handle the paperwork, ensure compliance with state regulations, and often provide additional valuable resources for new business owners.
Here’s a breakdown of the costs for the top 6 service providers:
Service | Basic Package | Premium Package | EIN Fee |
LegalZoom | $0 + state fees | $299 + state fees | Included with Pro Package |
ZenBusiness | $0 for first year | $299 per year | Included |
Bizee | $0 + state fees | $299 per year + state fees | Included with Gold Package |
Northwest Registered Agent | $39 + state fees | $39 per year + state fees | $50 |
Swyft Filings | $0 + state fees | $299 per year + state fees | $79 |
Tailor Brands | $0 + state fees | $249 + state fees | $99 |
Wrapping Up Your Georgia LLC Formation
As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey in Georgia, understanding the costs associated with LLC formation is crucial for proper planning and budgeting. From the initial filing fees to ongoing annual expenses, each cost plays a role in establishing and maintaining your business entity. Here at The Law Dictionary, we’re committed to providing you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your LLC.
Remember, while it’s possible to form an LLC on your own, the expertise and convenience offered by professional LLC formation services can be invaluable. These services not only ensure that your LLC is formed correctly but also provide ongoing support to keep your business compliant with state regulations. As you proceed with your Georgia LLC, take into account all the factors we’ve discussed to select the approach that aligns best with your needs and budget.