How to Form an LLC in Massachusetts (2026)
Massachusetts LLC filing fee: $500. Processing time: 3–5 days. Step-by-step guide with costs, requirements, and where to file.
Forming an LLC in Massachusetts costs $500 in state filing fees and takes 3–5 business days. Annual maintenance costs $500 per year for the required report. Massachusetts has the highest LLC formation and annual report fees in the US.
State Filing Fee
$500
One-time cost
Processing Time
3–5
Business days (standard)
Ongoing Report Fee
$500
Annual
Form Your Massachusetts LLC Online
These services file your Massachusetts LLC paperwork and include registered agent service, which is required by state law.
File your Massachusetts LLC for just the $500 state fee + their service fee. Includes registered agent, operating agreement, and compliance reminders.
Start your LLC in Massachusetts →
Free LLC formation service (you pay only the $500 state fee). Includes first year of registered agent, EIN, and business bank account setup.
Form free LLC in Massachusetts →
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How to Form an LLC in Massachusetts: Step by Step
Choose a Name for Your LLC
Your LLC name must be unique in Massachusetts and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Check availability on the Massachusetts Secretary of State website before filing. You can also reserve a name for a small fee (typically $10–$25) if you're not ready to file.
Appoint a Registered Agent
Massachusetts requires every LLC to have a registered agent — a person or company with a physical Massachusetts address who can receive legal documents on your behalf. You can be your own registered agent or use a service ($100–$300/year) for privacy and reliability.
File Articles of Organization
File your LLC formation documents (Articles of Organization) with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. The state filing fee is $500. Standard processing takes 3–5 business days. You can file online at the Massachusetts Secretary of State website or through a formation service.
Create an Operating Agreement
An operating agreement outlines how your LLC is managed, how profits are distributed, and what happens if a member leaves. While not always legally required in Massachusetts, it's strongly recommended — especially if you have multiple owners. Many banks require it to open a business account.
Get an EIN from the IRS
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) at IRS.gov. You'll use it to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file your business taxes. The IRS issues EINs immediately online.
File Annual Reports & Maintain Compliance
Massachusetts requires an annual report to keep your LLC in good standing. The report fee is $500. Missing the deadline can result in late fees or administrative dissolution of your LLC.
Total Cost to Form an LLC in Massachusetts
| Cost | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee (Articles of Organization) | $500 | One-time |
| Registered agent service | $0–$300 | Annual |
| Operating agreement (attorney or service) | $0–$200 | One-time |
| Annual report fee | $500 | Annual |
| Business bank account (varies) | $0–$35/mo | Monthly |
| Year 1 Total (estimated) | $500–$1,920 | First year |
Massachusetts Tax Environment for LLCs
State Income Tax
Yes
LLC income flows through to your personal state tax return.
SUTA Rate (Employer)
2.3%
State Unemployment Tax on first $15,000 of wages per employee.
As an LLC owner, you'll also pay self-employment tax (15.3% on net business income up to $184,500 in 2026) unless you elect S-Corp status. If you hire employees, see the full employer cost breakdown for Massachusetts.
LLC Formation in Other States
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