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Perhaps you are hoping to form a Delaware LLC. People assume how to start an LLC is difficult and costly. However, it’s generally not difficult, and the cost would vary across states. We have all the info you need to know about the cost of forming an LLC, particularly the LLC cost in Delaware.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
Delaware LLC Cost of Filing
Here are the costs involved in forming an LLC in Delaware.
Cost of Filing Formation Certificates
The Delaware Certificate of Formation is responsible for the majority of the cost, which could also vary depending on whether you’re forming a domestic LLC or a foreign LLC. Still, you can file both at the Delaware Secretary of State.
Delaware Domestic LLC
- By Mail: Fill out the application form, and send it to Delaware Division of Corporations 401 Federal Street Suite 4 Dover, DE 19901 Costs $90
- Franchise Tax $300 (Annual) can be done online.
Delaware Foreign LLC
- By Mail: Fill out the application form, and send it to Delaware Division of Corporations 401 Federal Street Suite 4 Dover, DE 19901 Costs $200
- An additional certified copy costs $50
- Franchise Tax $300 (Annual) can be done online.
Note that filing online is ideal, not only because you need to go to the Secretary of State office, but also it would be faster. You won’t have to wait in a queue in doing so.
Delaware LLC Formation Service or Registered Agent Fee
You need a registered agent to form an LLC in Delaware, hence, added costs for service fees. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries.
LLC Service | Our Rating & Pricing | Top Features | Learn More |
#1 TOP PICK  | $0 + State Fees |
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Business Permits and Licenses
The business licenses depend on your business’s activity and location and are renewed yearly. As such, the cost will vary. Check the Delaware Department of Revenue for regulatory boards or agencies requiring licensing.
Delaware Business Privilege Tax and Annual Report
Once you have your EIN or Employer Identification Number, apart from filing sales tax, once the company has completed its 2.5 months as an LLC in Delaware, it needs to pay a Business Privilege Tax (BPT). This is a requirement for all LLCs formed in Delaware.
LLCs need to pay the tax before the third week of April, i.e, 15 April, and it can vary from 0.00025% to 0.000175% according to the net worth of the LLC. The exact rate will be obtained on the basis of the income of the previous taxable year. The minimum amount that the business will have to pay for this tax is $100.
Delaware Taxes to Be Paid By The LLCs
Delaware is said to be the tax shelter state of the United States. The reason behind this is it has flexible taxation for the Limited Liability Companies. Firstly, the state does not have any Sales Tax. No, tax is imposed on the businesses based on Sales within the Delaware boundary. The state has Franchise tax and corporate income tax for the businesses.
Delaware Franchise Tax
Franchise Tax in Delaware is paid annually on 1st June every year. Failing to pay on time, the LLCs can be fined $200 plus 1.5% interest upon the penalty. The amount of Franchise Tax is $300 and has to be paid by all LLCs irrespective of the size.
Franchise Tax does not mean one has to have a Franchise business. It is a general business tax every LLC and corporation in Delaware has to pay annually.
Corporate Income Tax
LLCs have the advantage of passing through income taxes. Hence, in Delaware, no LLCs have to pay corporate income taxes. However, the members have to pay income taxes separately according to their profit.
On the other hand, S Corporations do not have to pay any federal taxes. They have more tax benefits than LLCs. If an LLC wants, it can be filed as S Corporation by filing an IRS. In that case, the LLCs have to pay corporate income tax.
Cost Comparison Among States
Delaware is surrounded by states like Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Virginia. Here’s LLC cost comparison among the neighboring states of Delaware,
| State | Filing Fee | Annual Fee/Biennial Fee |
| Delaware LLC | $90 | $300 (Annual) |
| Pennsylvania LLC | $125 | $70 (Every 10 years) |
| New Jersey LLC | $125 | $75 (Annual) |
| Maryland LLC | $100 | $300 (Annual) |
| Virginia LLC | $100 | $50 (Annual) |
Other Costs
- Delaware Name Reservation: $75 for online filings or by mail
- Doing Business As (DBA): $25 for online filing or by mail
- Certified Document Copies: $50 + $9 per page.
- Certificate of Good Standing: $50
- Business Domain Name and Website: depend on your preference, but domain name could be as low as $2.99/yr at NameCheap, and web hosting is at least $30/mo at Kinsta.
- Online workspace: at least $4.20/mo for GSuite.
- Business Insurance: would vary depending on insurance type–whether general liability insurance or professional liability insurance–and coverage.
- Dissolution of Delaware LLC: $200
F.A.Qs
It is possible to form an LLC without professional help, but forms still have associated costs, regardless of where your LLC is formed.
It is difficult to say whether forming an LLC is expensive. Nevertheless, the cost could be anywhere from $40 to $500. If you refuse to hire professionals, you’ll still have expenses like form fees to cover.
The need to separate personal money from business funds, thus necessitating the creation of a business bank account for your LLC.
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain an LLC in Delaware
To maintain an LLC in Delaware you will need to pay an annual fee of $300 along with sales tax, business privilege tax, franchise tax, corporate income tax and federal taxes.
There are several costs to consider when maintaining an LLC in Delaware. One of the most significant expenses is the annual franchise tax, which is imposed on all LLCs registered in the state. This tax is based on the company’s gross assets located in Delaware, with a minimum amount due each year. The franchise tax can vary depending on the size and profitability of the company, so it is important for LLC owners to budget for this expense annually.
In addition to the franchise tax, LLCs must also file an annual report with the Delaware Division of Corporations. This report requires companies to provide updated information about the business, such as the names and addresses of members, managers, and registered agents. There is a filing fee associated with submitting the annual report, and failure to do so on time can result in penalties and fines.
LLCs in Delaware are also required to maintain a registered agent in the state, who acts as the point of contact for legal correspondence and official documents. This registered agent must have a physical address in Delaware and be available during regular business hours. While business owners can serve as their own registered agent, many choose to hire a professional service to fulfill this role, which can add to the overall cost of maintaining the LLC.
Another cost to consider is the fees associated with making amendments to the LLC’s formation documents. If there are any changes to the business’s structure, ownership, or operating agreement, there may be filing fees required to update the company’s records with the state. Likewise, if the LLC wishes to expand or conduct business in other states, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining foreign qualification and complying with the laws of other jurisdictions.
It is important for LLC owners to factor in these ongoing expenses when weighing the benefits of operating in Delaware. While the state offers many advantages for businesses, such as a favorable legal environment, strong liability protection, and tax benefits, it is crucial to be prepared for the costs associated with maintaining compliance and operation of the entity.
Ultimately, the decision to maintain an LLC in Delaware will depend on the specific needs and goals of the business owners. By carefully considering the costs and benefits of operating in the state, entrepreneurs can make informed choices about the best course of action for their company’s success and longevity.
In Conclusion
The cost of Delaware is much lower compared to other forms of business. Apart from the state filing fees and annual taxes, you might bear the cost of the registered agent. Compare the price of professional LLC services and choose the most affordable one.