Many small business owners have been tempted to form their LLCs in other states due to lower taxes and filing fees. However, it is important to understand that if an LLC does business in other states, it must register in those states.
One example is Wyoming, which doesn’t charge personal or corporate income or franchise tax and offers enhanced privacy protections for business owners. Visit the state’s website for more information.
Taxes
While the idea of forming an LLC in another state is tempting, it may not be worth the extra expenses. Many small business owners will end up incurring unforeseen tax liabilities that could easily offset the cost savings from the change in state.
Besides taxes, there are other considerations to consider when choosing a new state for an LLC. For example, the new state may have different laws governing how an LLC is dissolved and how an LLC owner gets their money. The new state may also have different licensing requirements and requirements for keeping records.
Some states, such as Delaware, offer advantages for LLCs, including lower filing fees and taxes. In addition, Delaware offers strong privacy protections and a business-friendly judicial system with judges who focus on only corporate matters. Other states, such as Nevada and Wyoming, have become popular for their low formation costs and fast processing times. Regardless of which state you choose, make sure to hire a registered agent and comply with all local rules.
Registered agent
All businesses registered with the state of Vermont are required to have a registered agent. This person is responsible for receiving service of process and any legal notices. Typically, the registered agent will be a resident of the state or a business that provides registered agent services. However, you can be your own registered agent if you wish.
Many entrepreneurs are considering forming an LLC in another state to reap tax benefits. But they should remember that taxes are paid where the money is made. It is important to consult with a CPA before making this decision.
If you choose to use a professional registered agent service, they can offer you several advantages. For example, they can provide you with instant access to online account tools, filing tips and state forms. They can also save you time by handling all your corporate compliance requirements. They can even act as your business’s official point of contact.
Management structure
An LLC has a flexible management structure, which is useful for small businesses. The company may be member-managed or manager-managed, and either way, owners have limited liability. However, it is possible for a court to disregard the LLC’s separate existence and reach a member’s assets if they guarantee or co-sign a loan or use the LLC form to commit fraud or wrongdoing.
The member-managed structure works well for a business where all members will work directly with customers, such as retail shops and restaurants. In contrast, larger LLCs work best with the manager-managed structure.
Some LLCs choose to appoint one or more members as managers and hire nonmembers to manage day-to-day operations. This can help increase the credibility of a business, and banks may be more willing to lend money to companies with dedicated managers. This is a risky strategy, though, and it is important to carefully delineate the powers of the managing members in your company’s operating agreement.
Distribution of profits
Many states have a rule requiring that profits from an LLC are distributed to the members in proportion to their ownership interests. This is called a “profits allocation.” If the profit distribution is not written in the operating agreement, the state law will determine how to divide the profits.
Profits are taxed as self-employment income by the IRS. LLC members are considered self-employed business owners and not employees, so they don’t have payroll taxes withheld from their checks. However, they must estimate their tax liability and file a Schedule SE (Self-Employment Tax) with the IRS each year.
Typically, an LLC should be formed in the home state of its owner. This is especially true if the LLC will do business in other states. In those cases, the LLC must register in the other states as a foreign LLC and pay fees and reporting requirements. This is usually more expensive and time consuming than simply starting the LLC in its home state.