LLC Compliance Guide
Complete guide to maintaining your LLC in good standing. Learn about annual reports, state filings, and ongoing compliance requirements.
Stay Compliant
Maintain your business legally
LLC Compliance Overview
Maintaining LLC compliance is crucial for preserving your liability protection and keeping your business in good standing. Regular filings and updates ensure your LLC remains legally active.
Liability Protection
Maintaining compliance helps preserve the "corporate veil" that protects your personal assets.
Good Standing
Regular compliance keeps your LLC in good standing with state authorities.
Business Credibility
Compliance demonstrates professionalism and reliability to customers and partners.
Avoid Penalties
Timely compliance prevents late fees, penalties, and potential dissolution.
Key Deadlines
- Annual Reports
- Tax Filings
- License Renewals
- Registered Agent
- State Filings
- Business Records
Annual Compliance Requirements
These are the most common annual requirements for LLCs across all states.
Annual Reports
What They Include:
- Current business address
- Registered agent information
- Member/manager details
- Business activities
- Filing fee payment
Deadlines:
- Varies by state (anniversary date)
- Some states have specific due dates
- Late fees apply for missed deadlines
- Online filing available in most states
Tax Filings
Federal Requirements:
- Personal tax return (April 15)
- Partnership return (March 15)
- Estimated tax payments (quarterly)
- Self-employment tax
State Requirements:
- State income tax returns
- State estimated payments
- Franchise tax (if applicable)
- Sales tax filings
Ongoing Compliance Requirements
Maintain these requirements throughout the year to keep your LLC compliant.
Registered Agent
Requirements:
- Maintain active registered agent
- Update agent information
- Ensure availability during hours
- Accept service of process
Updates Needed:
- Address changes
- Agent resignation
- Service cancellation
- Annual renewals
Business Records
Required Records:
- Articles of Organization
- Operating Agreement
- Meeting minutes
- Financial statements
- Tax returns
Retention:
- Keep records organized
- Store securely
- Maintain for 7+ years
- Update regularly
Licenses & Permits
Common Requirements:
- Business licenses
- Professional licenses
- Sales tax permits
- Industry-specific permits
Renewals:
- Annual renewals
- Continuing education
- Fee payments
- Compliance updates
State-Specific Requirements
Compliance requirements vary significantly by state. Check your state's specific requirements.
High-Compliance States:
Delaware
- Annual report: $300
- Franchise tax
- Complex calculations
California
- Annual report: $20
- Franchise tax: $800
- LLC tax: $800+
Low-Compliance States:
Wyoming
- Annual report: $50
- No state income tax
- Simple requirements
Nevada
- Annual report: $150
- No state income tax
- Business license: $200
Compliance Tools and Resources
Use our tools and resources to help maintain your LLC compliance.
Foreign Qualification Checklist
Determine if you need foreign qualification and track your multi-state compliance requirements.
Check RequirementsLLC Cost Calculator
Calculate ongoing compliance costs including annual reports and state fees.
Calculate CostsOperating Agreement Guide
Learn about maintaining and updating your operating agreement for compliance.
View GuideExternal Compliance Resources
Additional resources to help with your LLC compliance requirements.
State Resources
Compliance Services
Professional Help
Stay Compliant with Your LLC
Use our tools and resources to maintain your LLC in good standing and avoid costly penalties.
📋 Important Disclaimer:
This guide provides general information about LLC compliance requirements. Laws and requirements vary by state and change frequently. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified attorney or compliance professional for specific advice related to your situation. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.