< LLC Formation Costs by State: 2026 Guide | USA-Corporate USA Corporate Services Inc.

Business Startup Costs by State: Complete 2026 Guide

50,000+ Formations • 40+ Years in Business • A+ BBB Rating

USA-Corporate provides filing services, not legal or tax advice. Cost information provided is for general educational purposes and subject to change. State fees, annual report requirements, and tax obligations vary and should be verified with official state sources and tax authorities. Consult a CPA for tax advice and an attorney for legal questions specific to your situation. See full disclaimer

Business Startup Costs: Quick Facts

State fees verified: February 2026 | Sources: State Secretary of State websites


How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business in the USA?

Aspect Details
Cheapest States
Arizona ($50), Kentucky ($40), Colorado ($50) – under $100 first year
Most Expensive
California ($890+), Massachusetts ($520+), Delaware ($440+) first year
Average LLC Cost
$200-$500 first year including state fees and registered agent
Required Costs
State filing fee ($50-$500), registered agent, EIN (free)
Optional Costs
Attorney ($500-$2,000), CPA ($200-$1,000), expedited processing
USA-Corporate Service
Transparent pricing – service fee + state fee

Starting a business in the United States involves several essential costs that vary significantly by state and business structure. Total startup costs for non-residents typically range from $200-$500 including state filing fees ($50-$500), registered agent service ($100-$300/year), and EIN application (free).

The actual cost depends on several key decisions:

  • State of formation – Filing fees range from $40 (Kentucky) to $500 (Massachusetts)
  • Entity type – LLC vs. Corporation have different fee structures
  • Annual obligations – Some states charge franchise taxes or annual report fees
  • Service provider – DIY, formation service, or attorney assistance

Many entrepreneurs underestimate total first-year costs by focusing only on filing fees while missing annual taxes, registered agent requirements, and compliance expenses. This guide provides transparent, state-by-state cost breakdowns to help you budget accurately.

In this guide:

  • Complete state-by-state cost breakdown for all 50 states
  • Required vs. optional startup costs
  • Hidden costs to avoid (like California’s $800 franchise tax)
  • Cheapest and most expensive states comparison
  • USA-Corporate transparent pricing
  • When to consult a CPA or attorney

Required Startup Costs for All Businesses

State Filing Fees (By Entity Type)

Every business must file formation documents with their chosen state’s Secretary of State office. These fees are mandatory and paid directly to the state government.

LLC Filing Fees Range: $40 (Kentucky) to $500 (Massachusetts)

Corporation Filing Fees Range: $40 (Kentucky) to $520 (Massachusetts)

The filing fee is a one-time cost to create your business entity. However, most states also require annual reports or franchise taxes as ongoing compliance costs (detailed in state-by-state breakdown below).

Registered Agent Service

Every LLC must designate a registered agent who maintains a physical street address in the state of formation and is available during business hours to receive legal documents.

Your Options:

  • Serve yourself: $0 cost if you maintain a physical address in the state and are available during business hours
  • Professional service: $100-$300 annually for privacy, consistency, and compliance assurance

USA-Corporate includes: Registered agent service (first year) with all formation packages

EIN Application (Free from IRS)

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required for most businesses. The IRS provides EINs completely free of charge.

Application methods:

  • US residents: Apply online instantly at IRS.gov (free)
  • Non-residents: Apply by mail using Form SS-4, processing takes 4-6 weeks (free) [1]

Important: Obtaining the EIN from the IRS itself costs nothing, but it has to be done properly to avoid issues later.

Complete State-by-State Cost Breakdown

LLC Filing Fees by State (2026)

State Initial Filing Fee Annual Report/Tax First-Year Total Processing Time
Alabama
$200
$50
$250
3-5 business days
Alaska
$250
$100
$350
5-7 business days
Arizona
$50
$0
$50
2-3 business days
Arkansas
$45
$150
$195
5-7 business days
California
$70
$820
$890
5-7 business days
Colorado
$50
$10
$60
1-2 business days
Connecticut
$120
$80
$200
3-5 business days
Delaware
$140
$300
$440
1-2 business days
Florida
$155
$139
$294
3-5 business days
Georgia
$100
$50
$150
5-7 business days
Hawaii
$50
$15
$65
5-7 business days
Idaho
$100
$0
$100
3-5 business days
Illinois
$150
$75
$225
5-7 business days
Indiana
$90
$50
$140
3-5 business days
Iowa
$50
$45
$95
3-5 business days
Kansas
$160
$50
$210
5-7 business days
Kentucky
$40
$15
$55
5-7 business days
Louisiana
$100
$35
$135
5-7 business days
Maine
$175
$85
$260
5-7 business days
Maryland
$100
$300
$400
5-7 business days
Massachusetts
$500
$520
$1,020
5-7 business days
Michigan
$50
$25
$75
5-7 business days
Minnesota
$135
$0
$135
3-5 business days
Mississippi
$50
$0
$50
5-7 business days
Missouri
$50
$0
$50
3-5 business days
Montana
$35
$20
$55
3-5 business days
Nebraska
$100
$13
$113
5-7 business days
Nevada
$425
$350
$775
2-3 business days
New Hampshire
$100
$100
$200
5-7 business days
New Jersey
$125
$75
$200
5-7 business days
New Mexico
$50
$0
$50
5-7 business days
New York
$200
$9
$209
5-7 business days
North Carolina
$125
$202
$327
3-5 business days
North Dakota
$135
$50
$185
5-7 business days
Ohio
$99
$0
$99
5-7 business days
Oklahoma
$100
$25
$125
5-7 business days
Oregon
$100
$100
$200
5-7 business days
Pennsylvania
$125
$7
$132
5-7 business days
Rhode Island
$150
$50
$200
5-7 business days
South Carolina
$110
$0
$110
3-5 business days
South Dakota
$150
$50
$200
5-7 business days
Tennessee
$300
$300
$600
5-7 business days
Texas
$300
$0
$300
3-5 business days
Utah
$54
$18
$72
3-5 business days
Vermont
$125
$35
$160
5-7 business days
Virginia
$100
$50
$150
5-7 business days
Washington
$200
$69
$269
3-5 business days
West Virginia
$100
$25
$125
5-7 business days
Wisconsin
$130
$25
$155
5-7 business days
Wyoming
$60
$60
$120
1-2 business days

Fees verified: February 2026 | Source: State Secretary of State websites

Notes:

First-Year Total = Initial Filing Fee + Annual Report/Tax (if due in year 1)
Some states waive first-year annual reports; others require payment immediately
Expedited processing available in most states for additional fees ($50-$350)

⚠️ CRITICAL: California's $800 Franchise Tax

California LLCs face significantly higher costs than most states due to mandatory franchise tax.

California LLC True Costs (2026)

Fee Type Amount When Due Frequency
Formation Filing
$70
At formation
One-time
Minimum Franchise Tax
$800
Within 75 days of formation
Annual
Statement of Information
$20
Within 90 days, then biennial
Every 2 years

First-year total: $890 minimum
Annual ongoing: $800 minimum

Important California Franchise Tax Details

The $800 franchise tax is due even if your LLC: 

  • Made zero profit or had no revenue
  • Had no business activity
  • Operated at a loss
  • Is brand new and just formed

Payment deadline: Due by the 15th day of the 4th month of your taxable year. If you formed on January 1, 2026, your $800 payment is due by April 15, 2026.

Additional LLC Fee: If your California LLC generates total income of $250,000 or more, you may owe an additional “LLC Fee” on top of the $800 tax. This fee scales with your revenue.

Required tax filing: California requires all LLCs to file Form 568 (Limited Liability Company Return of Income), even if you had no income.

First-year exemption expired: California Assembly Bill 85 (“AB85”) waived the first year’s $800 franchise tax for LLCs formed between 2020-2023. This exemption expired at the end of 2023. As of January 1, 2024, all new California LLCs must pay the $800 franchise tax in their first year.

⚠️ WARNING: Many entrepreneurs are surprised by California’s $800 minimum franchise tax after formation. Budget for this cost before choosing California as your formation state. Consult a CPA about tax implications specific to your situation.

Sources: California Franchise Tax Board, California Secretary of State
Verified: February 2026

Hidden Costs to Avoid

Many entrepreneurs encounter unexpected expenses after formation. Here are the most common “hidden” costs:

California $800 Franchise Tax

The #1 surprise cost for entrepreneurs

  • Many budget for $70 filing fee only
  • Discover $800 franchise tax due within 75 days
  • Required annually regardless of revenue
  • No first-year exemption (expired December 31, 2023)
  • Total surprise: 11x higher than expected

Protection: Always verify annual tax obligations before choosing your formation state. California, Delaware, Tennessee, and several other states charge ongoing franchise or annual taxes.

New York Publication Requirement

  • LLCs must publish formation notice in two newspapers
  • Cost varies by county: $50-$1,500+
  • Most expensive in New York City ($1,000-$1,500)
  • Less expensive in upstate counties ($50-$200)
  • Required within 120 days of formation

Expedited Processing Fees

Many states offer faster processing for additional fees:

  • Same-day service: $200-$750
  • 24-hour service: $100-$350
  • 1-2 day service: $50-$150

When it’s worth it: Urgent deadlines, time-sensitive opportunities, investor requirements

When to save money: No rush, can wait standard 3-7 business days

Professional Service Fees

Attorney fees for LLC formation:

  • Simple LLC: $500-$1,500
  • Complex multi-member LLC: $1,500-$3,000
  • Operating agreement only: $300-$1,000

CPA fees for tax planning:

  • Initial consultation: $200-$500
  • Tax structure advice: $500-$1,500
  • Ongoing tax preparation: $500-$2,000+ annually

When professional help is worth it:

  • Multiple members/partners requiring complex operating agreements
  • Regulated industries (healthcare, finance, legal)
  • Significant investment or venture capital funding
  • Complex tax situations or multi-state operations
  • Asset protection planning

Business Licenses and Permits

Costs vary dramatically by:

  • Industry (food service, healthcare, contractors need specific licenses)
  • Location (city, county, state requirements differ)
  • Business activities (selling goods vs. services)

Examples:

  • General business license: $50-$400
  • Professional licenses: $100-$1,000+
  • Food service permits: $100-$1,000
  • Contractor licenses: $200-$2,000+
  • Health department permits: $100-$500

Important: Research specific requirements for your industry and location. Many businesses need multiple licenses and permits.

DBA (Doing Business As) Registration

If you want to operate under a name different from your legal entity name:

  • State/county DBA filing: $10-$100
  • Newspaper publication (some states): $50-$200
  • Renewal frequency: Annual or every 5 years depending on state

Optional Startup Costs

Attorney Fees

Operating Agreement Preparation:

  • Template customization: $300-$800
  • Custom drafted agreement: $800-$2,000
  • Multi-member complex agreement: $1,500-$3,000+

Legal Review and Consultation:

  • Initial consultation: $200-$500
  • Contract review: $300-$1,000 per contract
  • Ongoing legal counsel: Retainer or hourly ($200-$500/hour)

When to hire an attorney:

  • Multiple members with different ownership percentages
  • Complex profit/loss distribution arrangements
  • Regulated industries requiring compliance review
  • Intellectual property protection needs
  • Partnership or investor agreements

CPA Fees

Tax Planning and Structure Advice:

  • Entity type selection consultation: $200-$500
  • Multi-state tax planning: $500-$1,500
  • S-Corp election guidance: $300-$800

Tax Preparation and Filing:

  • Simple LLC (pass-through): $300-$800
  • Multi-member LLC: $500-$1,500
  • S-Corp or C-Corp: $800-$2,500+
  • Multi-state returns: Add $200-$500 per state

When to hire a CPA:

  • Choosing between LLC and S-Corp taxation
  • Operating in multiple states
  • Significant revenue requiring tax optimization
  • Complex deductions or credits available
  • Quarterly estimated tax planning

Business Licenses and Permits

General Business License:

  • City/county business license: $50-$400
  • Varies by jurisdiction and business type

Industry-Specific Licenses:

  • Professional licenses (medical, legal, accounting): $200-$2,000+
  • Contractor licenses: $200-$2,000+
  • Food service permits: $100-$1,000
  • Alcohol licenses: $300-$14,000+ (varies dramatically)
  • Healthcare facility licenses: $500-$5,000+

Federal Licenses/Permits:

  • Required for firearms, alcohol, agriculture, aviation, etc.
  • Costs vary: $100-$5,000+

Expedited Processing Fees

State-level expedited processing:

  • Same-day service: $200-$750
  • 24-hour service: $100-$350
  • 2-3 day service: $50-$150

When expedited processing makes sense:

  • Time-sensitive opportunity requiring immediate formation
  • Investor or bank deadline
  • Contract contingent on entity formation
  • Seasonal business needing fast launch

When standard processing is fine:

  • Planning ahead with no urgent deadline
  • Want to save $100-$350 on formation costs
  • Can wait 3-7 business days for processing

USA-Corporate Transparent Pricing

What's Included in Our Formation Service

Our service fee covers:

  • Business name availability verification
  • Formation document preparation (Articles of
  • Organization/Incorporation)
  • Filing with Secretary of State
  • Operating agreement template (customizable)
  • EIN application assistance
  • Compliance calendar and annual report reminders
  • Ongoing customer support

What you pay separately:

  • State filing fee (paid directly to state)
  • Annual report fees (paid to state when due)
  • Expedited processing (optional, paid to state)
  • Additional years of registered agent service (after year 1)

No Hidden Fees Guarantee

What’s included in our service fee:

✓ All document preparation
✓ State filing submission
✓ Registered agent (first year)
✓ Operating agreement template
✓ EIN application assistance
✓ Customer support

What’s NOT included (optional add-ons):

  • State filing fees (varies by state)
  • Expedited state processing (if requested)
  • Registered agent service
  • Attorney-drafted operating agreement
  • CPA tax planning services

Our Commitment:

  • Transparent pricing with no surprises
  • State fees clearly separated from service fees
  • All costs disclosed before you order
  • No mandatory upsells or hidden charges

USA-Corporate vs. Attorney vs. DIY: Cost Comparison

Formation Cost Comparison

Option Cost Range What's Included Timeline Best For
DIY (Do It Yourself)
$50-$500
State filing fee only
Varies
Experienced business owners comfortable with paperwork
USA-Corporate
USA-Corportate Fee + state fee
Formation, registered agent (year 1), templates, support
3-7 days standard
Most small businesses, international entrepreneurs
Online Competitors
$39-$299 + state fee
Basic formation, some include registered agent
3-7 days
Price-conscious, simple formations
Local Attorney
$500-$3,000+
Formation, custom operating agreement, legal advice
1-2 weeks
Complex structures, legal guidance needed

What Each Option Provides

DIY Formation:

✓ Lowest upfront cost (state fee only)
✗ No registered agent service included
✗ No operating agreement template
✗ No EIN assistance
✗ Risk of errors causing delays
✗ Must research state requirements yourself
✗ No ongoing compliance reminders

USA-Corporate Formation:

✓ Registered agent included (year 1)
✓ Operating agreement template provided
✓ EIN application assistance
✓ Expert review before filing
✓ Compliance calendar and reminders
✓ 20+ years experience, 50,000+ formations
✓ Available for all 50 states
✗ Not customized legal advice

Attorney Formation:

✓ Custom operating agreement drafted
✓ Legal advice for your situation
✓ Complex structure expertise
✓ Ongoing legal counsel available
✗ Highest cost ($500-$3,000+)
✗ Longer timeline (1-2 weeks)
✗ May not include registered agent service

Important: USA-Corporate provides general information about business structures, but we are NOT a CPA firm and do NOT provide tax advice. Tax implications vary significantly by individual circumstances.

USA-Corporate Can Help With:

Business formation services:

  • LLC and Corporation formation in all 50 states
  • Document preparation and state filing
  • Registered agent service (included first year)
  • Operating agreement templates (customizable)
  • EIN application assistance (free from IRS)

Ongoing compliance:

  • Annual report filing reminders and service
  • Good standing certificate requests
  • Registered agent address maintenance
  • Business name amendments
  • General information about state requirements

USA-Corporate Cannot Advise On:

Tax matters:

  • Which entity type minimizes your tax burden
  • S-Corp election timing or strategy
  • Tax planning or deduction advice
  • State-specific tax advantages for your situation
  • California franchise tax strategy

Legal matters:

  • Liability protection for specific activities
  • Contract terms or legal agreements
  • Asset protection strategies
  • Legal compliance in regulated industries
  • Partnership dispute resolution

For tax questions: Consult a licensed CPA or tax advisor
For legal questions: Consult a licensed attorney
For formation services: USA-Corporate handles the paperwork

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start an LLC in the USA?

Total LLC formation costs vary by state, typically ranging from $50 to $500 for state filing fees. Total startup costs for non-residents typically range from $200-$500 including state filing fees ($50-$500), registered agent service ($100-$300/year), and EIN application (free). First-year costs vary significantly: Wyoming costs $120 ($60 filing + $60 annual), while California costs $890+ ($70 filing + $800 franchise tax + $20 annual). USA-Corporate’s service fee includes document preparation, filing, registered agent (first year), and EIN assistance.

Source: State Secretary of State websites, verified February 2026

What are the cheapest states to form an LLC?

The cheapest states for LLC formation are Arizona ($50 filing with no annual fee), Kentucky ($55 first year: $40 filing + $15 annual), and Colorado ($60 first year: $50 filing + $10 annual). Wyoming is also cost-effective at $120 first year ($60 filing + $60 annual) with additional benefits including strong privacy protections, no state income tax, and simple compliance. Total first-year costs in these states, including professional registered agent service, typically range from $200-$400.

Source: State filing fee schedules, verified February 2026

How much does California LLC cost?

California LLC total first-year cost is approximately $890: $70 state filing fee, $800 minimum franchise tax (due within 75 days of formation) [8], and $20 Statement of Information fee. The $800 franchise tax is required annually regardless of revenue or profit. California ended the first-year franchise tax exemption on December 31, 2023, so all LLCs formed after January 1, 2024 must pay $800 in year one [9]. Additionally, professional registered agent service costs $100-$300 annually if not serving yourself. LLCs with income over $250,000 may owe additional LLC Fees.

Source: California Franchise Tax Board, California Secretary of State, verified February 2026

Do I need to pay for a registered agent?

Every LLC must designate a registered agent who maintains a physical street address in the state of formation and is available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can serve as your own registered agent at no cost if you maintain a physical address in the state and are available during business hours. Professional registered agent services cost $100-$300 annually and provide privacy (your home address not public record), consistency (agent doesn’t resign when you move), and compliance assurance. USA-Corporate includes registered agent service (first year) with all formation packages.

How much does it cost to get an EIN?
Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is completely free. US residents can apply online instantly at IRS.gov. Non-residents must apply by mail using Form SS-4, which takes 4-6 weeks and is also free. There is no fee for an EIN from the IRS—it’s a free government service. Some companies charge for EIN application assistance, but the actual EIN from the IRS costs nothing. USA-Corporate provides EIN application assistance as part of our formation service.

Source: IRS.gov

What costs are required vs. optional when starting a business?

Required costs: State filing fee ($40-$500 depending on state), registered agent ($0 if you serve yourself, or $100-$300 for professional service), and EIN application (free from IRS) [1]. Optional costs: Attorney for custom operating agreement ($500-$2,000), CPA for tax planning ($200-$1,000), business licenses (varies by industry/location), DBA registration ($10-$100), and expedited processing fees ($50-$350). Total required minimum ranges from $50-$800 depending on state choice. Annual ongoing costs include state annual reports ($0-$520) and franchise taxes where applicable (California $800).
How long does LLC formation take?
Delaware processes LLC formation applications within 24 hours for online filings, making it one of the fastest states for business formation. Most states process standard LLC filings in 3-7 business days. Expedited processing is available in most states: same-day service costs $200-$750 additional, 24-hour service costs $100-$350, and 2-3 day service costs $50-$150. Some states like Wyoming and Colorado offer 1-2 business day standard processing. After state approval, non-residents receive their EIN in 4-6 weeks by mail (free), while US residents get EINs instantly online (free).

Source: State processing data, verified February 2026

Can I form an LLC for less than $500?

Yes, many states allow LLC formation for under $500 total first-year cost including registered agent service. Wyoming ($120 state fees + $100-$300 agent = $220-$420), Colorado ($60 state fees + $100-$300 agent = $160-$360), Arizona ($50 state fee + $100-$300 agent = $150-$350), and Kentucky ($55 state fees + $100-$300 agent = $155-$355) are among the most affordable. These costs assume you use a formation service with included registered agent rather than hiring an attorney. Total startup costs for non-residents typically range from $200-$500.

Does my California LLC really have to pay $800 even with no income?

Yes, California’s minimum franchise tax of $800 is required annually for all LLCs authorized to do business in California, regardless of revenue, profit, or business activity. The tax is due by the 15th day of the 4th month of your taxable year — typically April 15 for calendar-year LLCs. The first-year exemption that existed from 2020-2023 under Assembly Bill 85 expired on December 31, 2023. As of January 1, 2024, all new California LLCs must pay the $800 franchise tax in their first year. Failure to pay results in penalties and interest. This applies even if you formed your LLC in another state but are “doing business” in California.

Source: California Franchise Tax Board, verified February 2026

Which state should I form my LLC in if I'm on a tight budget?

If minimizing costs is your primary concern, consider Wyoming ($120 first year total), Arizona ($50 first year—lowest filing fee with no annual report), Colorado ($60 first year), or Kentucky ($55 first year). However, the cheapest state isn’t always the best choice. If you have physical operations, employees, or office space in a specific state, you typically must register there regardless of where you initially form. Forming in Delaware ($440 first year) or another state while operating in California still requires paying California’s $800 franchise tax. Consult a CPA about tax implications before choosing your formation state based solely on cost. Total non-resident startup costs typically range from $200-$500.

Start Your Business with Transparent Pricing

USA-Corporate makes business formation simple, fast, and affordable:

✓ Expert formation in all 50 states – Choose your ideal state
✓ Fast processing – Most formations completed in 3-7 business days 
✓ Registered agent included – First year free with formation
✓ Operating agreement template – Customizable for your needs
✓ EIN application assistance – Help obtaining free IRS tax ID
✓ Transparent pricing – No hidden fees, clear cost breakdown
✓ 20+ years experience – Trusted by 50,000+ businesses

Simple 3-Step Process:

  1. Choose your state and entity type – We’ll guide you
  2. We handle all paperwork – Document preparation, filing, verification
  3. Receive your formation documents – Plus registered agent service, templates, support

 

Questions about costs or which state is right for you?

Call: +1-212-239-5050
Email: info@usa-corporate.com
Live Chat: Available 24/7

We can also help with:

  • Annual report filing (stay compliant)
  • Good standing certificates (for loans, investors)
  • Business reinstatement (if dissolved)
  • Registered agent services (ongoing)

Important Disclaimer

USA-Corporate provides business formation document preparation and filing services. We are NOT a law firm and do NOT provide legal advice. We are NOT a CPA firm and do NOT provide tax advice.

Cost Information Accuracy

The startup cost information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is subject to change. While we verify state filing fees periodically against Secretary of State websites, fees can change without notice.

State filing fees, annual report fees, franchise taxes, and other costs are set by state governments and updated periodically. Always verify current fees directly with the appropriate state Secretary of State office before making business formation decisions.

What Cost Information Includes

State filing fees shown are for basic LLC and Corporation formation only. Additional costs may include:

  • Annual report or franchise tax fees (California $800 minimum)
  • Registered agent service fees (year 2+)
  • Business license fees (varies by jurisdiction)
  • Professional service fees (attorney, CPA)
  • Operating agreement or bylaws preparation
  • DBA (Doing Business As) registration
  • Industry-specific permits or licenses
  • Expedited processing fees 

USA-Corporate Service Fees

USA-Corporate charges a separate service fee for document preparation and filing assistance, in addition to state filing fees. Our service fee covers formation document preparation, filing with the state, registered agent service (first year included), operating agreement template, EIN application assistance, and ongoing compliance support.

State fees are paid directly to state agencies and are not included in USA-Corporate’s service fee. Annual report fees, franchise taxes, and other state-mandated costs are also paid separately to state agencies.

Tax Implications

Cost information does not constitute tax advice. Tax obligations vary significantly by state, business structure, and individual circumstances.

California-specific: California charges an $800 annual minimum franchise tax for all LLCs, due even in the first year of operation regardless of revenue. The first-year exemption under Assembly Bill 85 expired December 31, 2023. California also requires all LLCs to file Form 568 (Limited Liability Company Return of Income) annually. LLCs with income over $250,000 may owe additional LLC Fees.

Consult a licensed CPA or tax advisor for guidance on tax obligations specific to your situation, including entity type selection, state tax planning, and franchise tax requirements.

This Information Does Not Constitute:

  • Legal advice or attorney-client relationship
  • Tax advice or CPA-client relationship
  • A recommendation for any particular state or business structure
  • A guarantee of specific costs or fees
  • Assurance that any entity type is appropriate for your situation
  • Professional advice about California franchise tax strategy

For Current, Accurate Cost Information:

  • Verify fees at state Secretary of State websites
  • Consult a CPA regarding tax obligations, franchise taxes, and entity structure
  • Consult an attorney regarding legal structure, operating agreements, and compliance
  • Contact USA-Corporate for current service fees and package pricing

USA-Corporate prepares and files documents based on information you provide. We are responsible for accurate document preparation and timely filing. We are not responsible for business decisions made based on general cost information, tax strategy, or legal structure selection.

Last Updated: February 11, 2026
State Fees Sources: State Secretary of State websites (all 50 states verified)
California Franchise Tax: California Franchise Tax Board 

 

 
John-Gordon

John Gordon

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President -- USA Corporate Services Inc.

John Gordon is the President of USA Corporate Services Inc., with over 40 years of experience helping international entrepreneurs establish and grow businesses in the United States.

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