US LLC Formation: The Basics
A starting guide to evaluating structure, state choice and registration when considering a US LLC.
Start with the business and the state
An LLC is formed under state law in the United States; it is not created through a single federal formation filing. Founders should first consider where the activity will take place, where customers and partners are located, whether a physical presence is needed and which state rules may apply. Choosing a well-known state name alone does not answer whether the business has a real connection there or may need to register elsewhere.
Formation documents and ongoing responsibilities
Filing a formation document with the relevant state office, appointing an eligible registered agent and checking the proposed legal name are commonly central steps. After formation, periodic reports, keeping registered details current and documenting company decisions may also be required. Requirements and deadlines vary by state, so consult the current instructions of the relevant state authority before filing.
A pre-filing checklist
Decide who the owners will be and how responsibilities are allocated; check whether the proposed name is available; research the business address and registered-agent requirements; and consider documenting internal management and decision-making. Depending on the activity, local licences, foreign-owner disclosures or additional registrations may be relevant. This general information is not legal, accounting or tax advice; seek guidance from qualified professionals and official sources for your circumstances.