How Much Does It Cost to Form an LLC in the US in 2026?

Quick answer: Forming an LLC in the US in 2026 typically costs $100–$800 in one-time state filing fees (depending on the state), plus a Registered Agent fee of about $100–$300 per year, an EIN application (free if done directly, or a service fee if outsourced), and annual maintenance fees ranging from $0 to $300+ depending on the state. Total first-year cost for a foreign-owned single-member LLC is usually around $300–$900 if done independently, or $500–$1,500 with a full-service provider.

Specific Cost Breakdown

• State filing fee: A one-time $50–$500, depending on the state. Wyoming and New Mexico are usually the cheapest (around $50–$100); California and Massachusetts are among the most expensive ($300–$500).
• Registered Agent fee: Mandatory for every LLC, about $100–$300 per year if using a professional service.
• EIN (tax ID): Free when applying directly through the IRS, but people without an SSN usually need assistance since they can’t apply online.
• Annual maintenance (Annual Report/Franchise Tax): From $0 (some states don’t require it) to $300+ per year depending on the state (California charges a minimum $800/year Franchise Tax).
• Accounting/tax filing: Not mandatory immediately, but budget for it annually — usually $200–$600 for basic bookkeeping services.

Which State Is Cheapest to Form an LLC In?

Wyoming, New Mexico, and Delaware are the three most popular choices for foreign owners thanks to low costs, no state income tax filing requirement (for Wyoming), and simple procedures. However, the right state also depends on your specific business model (Amazon selling, digital services, etc.).

How Can AWE Global Help?

AWE Global provides a full-service LLC formation package including state registration, Registered Agent service, EIN application support, and consulting on choosing the right state. Contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your needs.