How to Start an LLC (Without Overpaying a Filing Service)
A step-by-step walk-through of forming an LLC in the US — what to do yourself, what to pay for, and the tools that make it painless.
Some links on this page are affiliate links. Lazimkey may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend tools we would use ourselves.
Pick a state
Most first-time founders should form the LLC in the state they live in and do business in. Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada get talked up in Twitter threads, but for a small solo business they add a foreign-registration fee and an agent every year — real cost with no real benefit.
File the Articles of Organization
Every state's Secretary of State website lets you file the Articles of Organization yourself for the filing fee (typically $50–$300). You don't need LegalZoom to click through a form — but you do need a registered agent if you don't have a business address in that state.
Get an EIN from the IRS
The EIN application is free at irs.gov and takes ten minutes. Any service charging you for an EIN is charging you to fill out one form. Do it yourself.
Business banking and accounting
Open a dedicated business checking account the same day the LLC is approved — commingling funds is the fastest way to lose limited-liability protection. From day one, use accounting software so tax season isn't a shoebox of receipts.
For CRM and pipeline once you start selling, HubSpot's free tier is a no-brainer starting point.
Lazimkey may earn a commission when you sign up or buy through links on this page. You never pay more, and we only recommend products we have used, tested, or would confidently hand a friend.
The Ultimate Business Startup Toolkit
The complete checklist plus our recommended software stack, delivered to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.