Setting Up an LLC in Montana
To form an LLC in Montana, file articles of organization and pay a $70 fee. A registered agent, receiving legal documents, must have a Montana address. An operating agreement outlines member responsibilities, though not required. As a separate entity, an LLC protects assets if sued. Income and losses "pass through" to personal taxes. With business-friendly laws, an LLC benefits many small owners.
Requirements and Costs
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Choosing a compliant, searchable name is important. You may reserve a name for 120 days for a $10 fee. Expanding an existing LLC costs $70 to file.
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A professional LLC has at least one approved member to perform services like law or medicine. After choosing a name, nominate a registered agent to receive legal documents. Though you can serve, using a service is preferable.
Annual Reporting and Fees
In Montana, LLCs are required to file annual reports. As with other forms, your documents are completed online using the Montana ePass system. The yearly fee is $20; to avoid additional charges, you must submit your report no later than April 15.
Additional Information
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If you opt to have your LLC treated as a pass-through entity, you will not have to worry about additional tax filing. However, if you chose to treat your LLC as a corporation, please be aware that you will have to file separate tax documents for your business.
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The main cost to start an LLC in Montana is $70 for filing your Certificate of Formation. You will also need to file an annual report with the state of Montana on a yearly basis, which also costs $20.
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It costs $35 to register your paperwork and become a domestic LLC in Montana. But the price is doubled to $70 for foreign LLCs that want to register in this state. The other charge to keep in mind is your annual report filing fee. This only costs $20, but you have to pay it each year to remain compliant and in good standing with the secretary of state.