New 2026 cost breakdown shows how prices look in six top states. It points out the yearly costs that many first-time founders miss.
[City, State] – October 5, 2026 – Many people who start a business only plan to pay the state filing fee when setting up an LLC. But there are more costs, like taxes that happen every year, fees for registered agents, and rules about publishing the LLC name. GrowBizLab, which is online for people who want to start a business or run a small business, has shared its 2026 LLC cost details and a small business checklist for starting out. The review looks at six well-known states and shows first-year costs going from about $285 in Wyoming to almost $1,000 in California, even though California only charges about $70 for the filing fee.
“Most first-time founders look at the filing fee and do not expect what comes later,” said [Spokesperson Name], [Title] at GrowBizLab. “There should be a plan for the state fee, a registered agent, keeping up with rules, and the costs for banking and licenses after that. A small filing fee could not mean much if there are high costs that keep coming.”
What the Numbers Show
State filing fees are easy to see, and they change from place to place. In California, the fee is about $70. In Wyoming, it is $100. In Delaware, it is $110. In Florida, it is $125. In New York, the fee goes up to $200. Texas has the fee at $300. Still, the lowest fee does not mean the lowest cost when you look at everything.
California is the easiest place to see this. That state has an $800 minimum yearly franchise tax for LLCs, even if they make no money. A $20 statement is also needed every two years. In New York, people must pay $200 to file. They also must publish a notice that can cost a few hundred dollars, or more than $1,000, based on which county they are in. Wyoming is different, with some of the lowest fees that keep coming up, as its yearly report only costs $60. Florida asks for a $138.75 yearly charge for reports, and filing late means you must pay extra. Texas does not have a yearly report fee for many small LLCs, but you still need to file a franchise tax and give information each year.
| State | Filing Fee | Typical Recurring Cost |
| California | ~$70 | $800 minimum annual franchise tax, plus $20 biennial statement |
| Delaware | ~$110 | Annual tax [confirm current amount] |
| Florida | $125 | $138.75 annual report |
| New York | $200 | $9 biennial statement, plus publication costs |
| Texas | ~$300 | Franchise tax and information report required |
| Wyoming | ~$100 | $60 minimum annual report |
GrowBizLab says that the first-year costs, with a registered agent, are about $285 in Wyoming. In Florida, it will be around $390. Texas comes to about $425. California is close to $1,000. In New York, the cost changes a lot based on where you place the publication notice.
Costs Founders Often Miss
Besides state fees, there are some small costs. These costs can add up.
- Registered agent: This is usually about $100 to $125 each year if you do not want to do it yourself.
- Operating agreement: You can make one for free, but you may pay a few hundred dollars if a lawyer helps.
- Business licenses and permits: How much you pay depends on your city, county, and the kind of work you do.
- Business bank account: Many are free, but some will have a fee each month.
- EIN: This is free if you get it from the IRS directly.
“The goal is not to push anyone to pick one state,” [Spokesperson Name] said. “The idea is to help founders see everything, even what they have to pay in the second year. Many people get late fees or lose their business because they think buying an LLC is just a one-time thing.”
The Formation Process at a Glance
GrowBizLab’s checklist helps founders with each step. First, choose the state for your business. Next, check if your name is available. Then, pick someone to act as your registered agent. After this, send in the Articles of Organization. You will need to make an operating agreement as well. Get an EIN next. Open a business bank account that is only for your company. Make sure to get needed licenses and permits. Mark your calendar to handle your yearly tasks like reports and franchise taxes.
Founders can use two main ways. They can send forms to the state themselves and pay the filing fee. Or, they can use a paid filing service. This service checks names, prepares needed papers, and gives agent support. The price is higher with this choice.
Choosing the Right Structure
Requirements change from state to state. Most states ask for a different name, a registered agent, papers to start, and reports from time to time. A sole proprietorship costs less to run. It does not keep you safe from risk. A corporation can add steps that many new businesses may not want yet. The LLC is a good choice for freelancers, online sellers, and eCommerce owners. It gives some safety from losses and more choices for tax help, with not many rules to follow.
Figures show state fees as of [date]. Fees and rules may change. Founders should check the current amounts with their state’s office before filing.
Availability
The full breakdown of 2026 LLC costs and a checklist to help you get started can be found at [URL]. GrowBizLab also gives you a simple, clear guide to start an LLC. This guide is kept up to date when any state rules change.
About GrowBizLab
GrowBizLab is an online place that gives easy-to-follow guides about how to start a business. You can read about building business credit and getting money for your new startup. The site’s goal is to help founders launch and pay for their businesses. It does this with clear steps that anyone can follow. Learn more at growbizlab.com.
