How to Form an LLC Yourself Without Paying for a Service

You don’t need to pay $300+ to LegalZoom or another formation service to create your LLC. Every U.S. state allows you to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) on your own—and it’s easier than most people think.

At LawCierge AI, we help small business owners take control of their legal landscape, even when they choose to file their LLC themselves. This guide breaks down exactly how to do it, step-by-step. Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC

Why it matters: Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing business names in your state, and compliant with local rules.

What to do:

1. Go to your Secretary of State’s website.

2. Search the Business Name Database to ensure your desired name is available.

3. Make sure it includes a designator like:

   • LLC

   • L.L.C.

   • Limited Liability Company

4. Avoid restricted words like "Bank," "Attorney," or "University" unless you have special licensing or approvals.
   

Optional but recommended: Reserve the name (some states allow/require this, typically for a small fee).

Step 2: Designate a Registered Agent

What is it? A registered agent is a person or company authorized to receive legal documents, notices, or subpoenas on behalf of your LLC.

Your options:

• You can be your own registered agent if:

  • You're 18+

  • Have a physical address (not a P.O. box) in the state

  • Are available during normal business hours

• Or, you can hire a registered agent service ($50–$150/year)
  

Why it matters: Failing to have a registered agent can result in your LLC being dissolved by the state.

Step 3: File Your Articles of Organization (a.k.a. Certificate of Formation)

This is the legal form that creates your LLC with the state.

How to do it:

1. Go to your state’s Secretary of State (or equivalent) website.

2. Locate the “Form an LLC” section.

3. Complete the Articles of Organization. You’ll usually need to provide:

   • LLC name

   • Business address

   • Registered agent info

   • Organizer/member names (varies by state)

   • Business purpose (in some states)

4. Pay the filing fee (typically $50–$500, depending on the state).
   

Processing time: Usually instant or within a few days if filed online.

What you get: A stamped and approved copy confirming your LLC is officially formed.

Step 4: Draft an LLC Operating Agreement

What is it? An Operating Agreement outlines:

• Member ownership and responsibilities

• How profits and losses are split

• Voting procedures and dispute resolution

• What happens if a member leaves or dies
  

Is it required?

• Required in some states (e.g., California, New York)

• Highly recommended everywhere else
  

How to create one:

• You can use a free online template (be cautious of one-size-fits-all forms)

• Or use LawCierge.ai to generate a customized, state-specific Operating Agreement based on your business structure
  

Step 5: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

What is it? An EIN is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS. It’s required if you:

• Have employees

• Open a business bank account

• File federal taxes for your LLC
  

How to get it:

1. Go to the IRS’s official site: irs.gov/ein

2. Apply online—it’s free, takes about 5 minutes, and you get your EIN immediately.
   

Step 6: Register for State Taxes (If Required)

Depending on your state and industry, you may need to:

• Register for sales tax

• Apply for state income tax withholding

• Obtain local business licenses
  

Where to check: Your state’s Department of Revenue or Business Division website.

Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account

Why it matters: Keeping business and personal finances separate is critical for maintaining your LLC’s liability protection.

What you’ll need:

• Approved Articles of Organization

• EIN

• Operating Agreement (sometimes)
  

Open an account in your LLC’s name and avoid using your personal account for business expenses.

Step 8: Stay Compliant (Ongoing Requirements)

Forming your LLC is just the start. Each year, you may need to:

• File an Annual Report (required in most states)

• Pay a Franchise Tax or renewal fee

• Update your registered agent or business info if anything changes

• Maintain good standing with contracts and legal documents
  

Why LawCierge.ai Still Matters (Even if You DIY Your LLC)

Forming your LLC is only one part of staying legally protected. LawCierge helps you manage everything that comes after formation:

✅ Custom, attorney-reviewed contracts ✅ 24/7 AI legal guidance ✅ Quarterly legal audits with licensed attorneys ✅ Central dashboard for all your legal documents

You did the LLC yourself—now protect it the smart way.

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