A limited liability company (LLC) is a popular business structure combining both the liability protection of a corporation and pass-through taxation of a partnership. One advantage of an LLC is the flexibility it offers in terms of management and ownership structure.
As part of the LLC formation process, you’ll have choices to make. Learn about single-member LLCs versus multi-member LLCs and which ownership structure makes the most sense for you. Most people chose to form their LLC in the state where their business is located - known as a domestic LLC. But there may be situations where creating an LLC in a different state - known as a foreign LLC - might be advantageous. You’ll also want to understand the difference between member-managed and manager-managed LLCs so you can choose which management structure is right for you. If you’re a professional, you’ll need to learn about professional LLCs and the special rules that apply to licensed professionals in some states.
Here you will find out everything you need to know about LLCs, including the advantages of an LLC versus other business entities, how to form an LLC in your state, what to put in an LLC operating agreement, and how LLCs are taxed.
Nolo can help you create your LLC. Use Nolo's Online LLC to form your LLC or, for a list of Nolo's business formation books, forms, and online applications, see the Business Formation section of our store.
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What is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?
Frequently asked questions about starting and running an LLC, or limited liability company.
LLC (Limited Liability Company) Basics
Learn the main features of an LLC, including liability protection and pass-through taxation.
Learn how LLC owners report their LLC "pass-through" income and losses on their personal tax returns.
Understand the advantages the LLC entity offers over other business structures.
Here's what you need to do to form a limited liability company.
50-State Guide to Forming an LLC
A comprehensive 50-state guide to each state's requirements for forming an LLC.
Read about why you need an operating agreement and what to include in one.
How Much Does it Cost to Form an LLC?
Find out how much it costs to form and own an LLC in your state.
Self-Employment Taxes for Owners of Single-Member LLCs
Owners of a single-member LLC are not employees and instead must pay self-employment tax on their earnings.
Single-Member LLCs and Asset Protection: A 50-State Guide
Learn the rules in your state about SMLLCs, charging orders, and personal liability protection.
Professional Limited Liability Companies
A professional limited liability company (PLLC) is a business entity designed for licensed professions, such as lawyers, doctors, architects, engineers, accountants, and chiropractors.
LLCs and Limited Liability Protection
Find out what limited liability protection you get with an LLC in your state.
LLC Asset Protection and Charging Orders: An Overview of State Laws
Learn what personal creditors of LLC members can--and can't--do.
Most LLCs need to raise capital to get started with their business. Read about some of the more commonly-used options for obtaining funding.
Like all businesses, LLCs must follow certain record keeping rules to avoid problems with the IRS, investors, owners, and others.
Dissolve a Corporation or LLC to End Your Liability
Take the proper steps to terminate your LLC--and follow through--to avoid future liability.
50-State Guide to Converting an LLC to a Corporation
Learn the rules for your state on converting an LLC to a corporation or S corporation.
What is a Limited Liability Company (LLC)?
Answers to all the basic LLC questions: from what is an LLC? to understanding securities laws issues with LLCs.
Must an LLC be formed in the same state in which it will operate?
Find out the answer to this question and other issues related to where you form your LLC.
LLC Annual Filing Requirements in California
Learn about annual report and tax filing requirements for California LLCs.
Texas LLC Annual Filing Requirements
Learn about annual report and tax filing requirements for Texas LLCs.