CostOfAnLLC.com exists for one reason: most "LLC cost" pages only tell you the filing fee — and the filing fee is often the smallest part of what you'll actually pay.
A state can look cheap at $50 to file and then charge $800 every single year. Another can look expensive at $300 to file and charge nothing ever again. We built this calculator to show the whole picture: Year 1, every year after, and the honest 5-year total, for all 50 states and Washington, DC.
How we get our numbers
Our fee data comes from each state's Secretary of State and official state fee schedules, reviewed for 2026. Recurring fees are shown with their real cadence (annual, biennial, or decennial) and annualized only where we say so, so comparisons stay fair. Fees change — states adjust schedules most years — so always confirm the current amount on your state's official site before you file. We show that reminder on every state page.
What we are (and aren't)
We're a free information tool for US founders. We are not a law firm, accounting firm, or formation service, and nothing here is legal or tax advice. For decisions with real tax consequences — like electing S-Corp status — talk to a CPA or attorney in your state. Our guides explain the math so that conversation is shorter and cheaper.
How the site stays free
The calculator is free with no signup. The site is supported by advertising, which never changes our fee data or rankings — states are ranked purely by their published costs.