How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in Delaware?
The cost to start an LLC (limited liability company) online in Delaware is $90. This fee is paid to the Delaware Department of State when filing the LLC’s Certificate of Formation.
We recommend Northwest ($29 + State Fees) to help form your LLC.
How Much Does an LLC Cost in Delaware?
Delaware LLC Online Filing Fee: $90
The main cost to start an LLC in Delaware is the $90 fee to file your LLC's Certificate of Formation online with the Delaware Department of State.
For a look at LLC costs in every state, read our other Cost to Start an LLC and How to Form an LLC guides.
Delaware Franchise Tax: $300
In Delaware, all LLCs are required to file and pay a $300 annual franchise tax. This can be done online.
Delaware charges a penalty of $200 plus 1.5% interest per month if you miss the June 1 filing deadline.
Cost to Form a Foreign LLC in Delaware
If you already have an LLC that is registered in another state and you’d like to expand your business into Delaware, you’ll need to register your LLC as a foreign LLC in Delaware.
The cost for registering a Delaware foreign LLC is $200. You can register a foreign LLC in Delaware by filing a Certificate of Registration of Foreign Limited Liability Company online or by mail.
Optional LLC Formation Costs
There are optional fees associated with LLC formation:
LLC Name Reservation
Reserve your name for up to 120 days prior to LLC formation by filing an Application for Reservation of Limited Liability Company Name and paying the $75 filing fee.
Trade Name
File a Registration of Trade, Business & Fictitious Name Certificate and pay the $25 filing fee (per county) to create a name other than your legal LLC business name.
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Annual Delaware LLC Fees
When considering starting a limited liability company (LLC) in Delaware, it is important to understand the ongoing costs associated with maintaining an LLC.
Here are the primary ongoing costs for a Delaware LLC:
- Annual Franchise Tax and Partnership Return: LLCs and partnerships in Delaware are subject to an annual tax and partnership return. The annual tax for LLCs is a flat fee of $300, while the partnership return cost depends on each partner's individual state tax return.
- Registered Agent Fee: Delaware requires every LLC to elect and maintain a registered agent. You can appoint yourself as the agent or hire a professional service. The cost of a professional registered agent service typically ranges from $100 to $300 annually.
It is important to consider these ongoing costs when planning your LLC's budget in Delaware. By understanding and factoring in these expenses, you can make informed decisions and ensure the financial stability of your LLC.
How to Register a Delaware LLC Yourself
Forming an LLC in Delaware is easy. Simply follow the steps outlined on this page.
Recommended: Using an LLC formation service like Northwest ($29 + State Fees) saves time and ensures compliance. Besides the low cost, we like their streamlined approach and excellent customer service.
Delaware LLC Cost FAQ
To file the necessary paperwork for forming an LLC in Delaware, it will cost you $90. You can file this paperwork either online or by mail with the Department of State.
Aside from the initial filing fee of $90, there may be other associated costs such as obtaining a registered agent for your LLC, which is a requirement in the state of Delaware. Also, if you decide to operate under a “doing business as” (DBA) name or trade name, there might be additional costs involved.
Yes, there are. All LLCs in Delaware are required to pay an Annual LLC/Partnership Tax of $300. In addition, if your LLC is taxed as a partnership, you'll also need to file an Annual Partnership Return, and the cost for that depends on each partner's individual state tax return.
A registered agent is a person or company that's legally authorized to receive service of process (official notices and legal paperwork) on behalf of your LLC in the state of Delaware. Every Delaware LLC is required to have a registered agent.
The consent of the new registered agent is not officially required for changing your LLC's registered agent in Delaware. But it's good practice to make sure they are aware and willing to take on the responsibility.
Delaware does not require LLCs to file an annual report. However, there is a $300 franchise tax for LLCs that must be paid.
Yes, you can conduct a General Information Name Search to see if your desired LLC name is available. If needed, you can also conduct an Additional Name Availability Search for more thorough results.
A Certificate of Formation is the document you file with the Delaware Department of State to officially form your LLC. It is a requirement for creating an LLC in Delaware.
An LLC formation service can guide you through the process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time. They can also help with ongoing requirements such as obtaining a registered agent, complying with annual tax payments, and making sure your business remains in good standing.
Article Sources
Delaware Department of State:
https://sos.delaware.gov/
IRS - Employer ID Numbers:
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/employer-id-numbers
Delaware Division of Revenue:
https://revenue.delaware.gov/
SBA - Apply for Licenses and Permits:
https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/launch-your-business/apply-licenses-permits
Chamber of Commerce - Delaware Chamber of Commerce List:
https://www.officialusa.com/stateguides/chambers/delaware.html