[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":493},["ShallowReactive",2],{"document-how-to-start-an-llc-D13349":3},{"document":4,"label":26,"preview":11,"thumb":27,"thumb600":28,"description":5,"descriptionCustom":6,"apiDescription":5,"pages":8,"extension":10,"parents":29,"breadcrumb":33,"related":41,"customDescModule":185,"customdescription":6,"mdFm":186,"mdProseHtml":492},{"description":5,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":7,"pages":8,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":11,"thumb":12,"svgFrame":13,"seoMetadata":14,"parents":16,"keywords":15},"HOW TO START AN LLC A limited liability company (LLC) is a type of business structure that shields its owners from being held personally liable for its liabilities. One of the most important steps in starting a company is forming a limited liability organization. An LLC can provide liability protection for your company and other benefits. You must file documentation with your firm's state to form an LLC. The requirements and procedures for forming an LLC vary substantially by state. Here are a few general guidelines you need to follow to start a limited liability company in any state: Choose a name for your LLC Choosing a company name is the first and most crucial step in forming an LLC. Pick a name that complies with LLC naming regulations and is simple for prospective customers to find online. While these requirements vary, most states generally specify: The business name must contain the phrase \"limited liability company\" or one of its abbreviations (LLC). Any terms in the name that might be confused with those of a public authority are prohibited (e.g., FBI, State Department). Restricted words (like \"bank\" or \"attorney\") may require additional paperwork and the involvement of a licensed person, such as a lawyer, in the LLC. Most states don't permit the use of the same name by two distinct companies. In many states, you can check the availability of existing business names online to see if the name you've selected for your LLC is already taken. Before submitting LLC paperwork, you should always check the Secretary of State's website for name availability. You can reserve your LLC name for a brief term until you file your articles of organization and pay the fee. Choose a registered agent Nearly all states require that LLCs designate a registered agent, also known as a statutory agent. A registered agent is an individual or corporation who accepts court summonses, subpoenas, and other legal papers on the LLC's behalf. The registered agent then passes the legal documents to the appropriate person at the LLC. Any person who is a state resident and is older than 18 can act as a registered agent, including a member or LLC officer. Individuals may also choose a member of their LLC or a trusted friend to be their registered agent, as long as they meet the state requirements. Several businesses offer registered agent services for a price. File articles of organization",null,"How To Start An LLC","3",513,"doc","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/how-to-start-an-llc-D13349.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/13349.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#13349.xml",{"title":15,"description":6},"how to start an llc",[17,20,23],{"label":18,"url":19},"Business Plan Kit","/templates/business-plan-kit/",{"label":21,"url":22},"Board of Directors","/templates/board-of-directors/",{"label":24,"url":25},"Sales & Marketing","/templates/sales-marketing/","How To Start An LLC Template","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/400px/13349.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/600px/13349.png",[30,17,20,23],{"label":31,"url":32},"Templates","/templates/",[34,35,38],{"label":31,"url":32},{"label":36,"url":37},"Legal Agreements","/templates/business-legal-agreements/",{"label":39,"url":40},"Incorporation & Bylaws","/templates/incorporation-and-bylaws/",[42,46,50,54,58,62,66,70,74,78,82,86,90,105,120,134,152,168],{"label":43,"url":44,"thumb":45,"extension":10},"How To Start An Online Business","/template/how-to-start-an-online-business-D12954","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12954.png",{"label":47,"url":48,"thumb":49,"extension":10},"How To Start An Ecommerce Business","/template/how-to-start-an-ecommerce-business-D13348","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/13348.png",{"label":51,"url":52,"thumb":53,"extension":10},"How To Start A Personal Brand","/template/how-to-start-a-personal-brand-D13123","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/13123.png",{"label":55,"url":56,"thumb":57,"extension":10},"Checklist How To Setup an LLC","/template/checklist-how-to-setup-an-llc-D12995","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12995.png",{"label":59,"url":60,"thumb":61,"extension":10},"How To Finish What You Start","/template/how-to-finish-what-you-start-D13206","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/13206.png",{"label":63,"url":64,"thumb":65,"extension":10},"How To Start and Master Personal Branding","/template/how-to-start-and-master-personal-branding-D13350","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/13350.png",{"label":67,"url":68,"thumb":69,"extension":10},"Checklist Start-Up","/template/checklist-start-up-D110","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/110.png",{"label":71,"url":72,"thumb":73,"extension":10},"LLC Buyout Agreement","/template/llc-buyout-agreement-D13361","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/13361.png",{"label":75,"url":76,"thumb":77,"extension":10},"LLC Investment Agreement","/template/llc-investment-agreement-D12832","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12832.png",{"label":79,"url":80,"thumb":81,"extension":10},"LLC Operating Agreement","/template/llc-operating-agreement-D5209","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/5209.png",{"label":83,"url":84,"thumb":85,"extension":10},"LLC Membership Agreement","/template/llc-membership-agreement-D14005","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/14005.png",{"label":87,"url":88,"thumb":89,"extension":10},"LLC Member Removal Form","/template/llc-member-removal-form-D14004","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/14004.png",{"description":91,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":92,"pages":93,"size":94,"extension":10,"preview":95,"thumb":96,"svgFrame":97,"seoMetadata":98,"parents":99,"keywords":103,"url":104},"INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT This Independent Contractor Agreement (\"Agreement\") is made and effective [Date], BETWEEN: [INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR NAME] (the \"Independent Contractor\"), a company organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [COMPLETE ADDRESS] AND: [YOUR COMPANY NAME] (the \"Company\"), a company organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [YOUR COMPLETE ADDRESS] RECITALS Independent Contractor is engaged in providing [Describe] business services, its Employer Tax I.D. Number is [Insert], and its Business License Number is [insert]. Independent Contractor has complied with all Federal, State, and local laws regarding business permits, sales permits, licenses, reporting requirements, tax withholding requirements, and other legal requirements of any kind that may be required to carry out said business and the Scope of Work which is to be performed as an Independent Contractor pursuant to this Agreement. Independent Contractor is or remains open to conducting similar tasks or activities for clients other than the Company and holds themselves out to the public to be a separate business entity. Company desires to engage and contract for the services of the Independent Contractor to perform certain tasks as set forth below. Independent Contractor desires to enter into this Agreement and perform as an independent contractor for the company and is willing to do so on the terms and conditions set forth below. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals and the mutual promises and conditions contained in this Agreement, the Parties agree as follows: TERMS This Agreement shall be effective commencing [Date], and shall continue until terminated at the completion of the Scope of Work which shall occur no later than [Date] or by either party as otherwise provided herein. STATUS OF INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR This Agreement does not constitute a hiring by either party. It is the parties intentions that Independent Contractor shall have an independent contractor status and not be an employee for any purposes, including, but not limited to, [laws]. Independent Contractor shall retain sole and absolute discretion in the manner and means of carrying out their activities and responsibilities under this Agreement. This Agreement shall not be considered or construed to be a partnership or joint venture, and the Company shall not be liable for any obligations incurred by Independent Contractor unless specifically authorized in writing. Independent Contractor shall not act as an agent of the Company, ostensibly or otherwise, nor bind the Company in any manner, unless specifically authorized to do so in writing. TASKS, DUTIES, AND SCOPE OF WORK Independent Contractor agrees to devote as much time, attention, and energy as necessary to complete or achieve the following: [Describe]. The above to be referred to in this Agreement as the \"Scope of Work\". It is expected that the Scope of Work will completed by [Date]. Independent Contractor shall additionally perform any and all tasks and duties associated with the Scope of Work set forth above, including but not limited to, work being performed already or related change orders. Independent Contractor shall not be entitled to engage in any activities which are not expressly set forth by this Agreement. The books and records related to the Scope of Work set forth in this Agreement shall be maintained by the Independent Contractor at the Independent Contractor's principal place of business and open to inspection by Company during regular working hours. Documents to which Company will be entitled to inspect include, but are not limited to, any and all contract documents, change orders/purchase orders and work authorized by Independent Contractor or Company on existing or potential projects related to this Agreement. Independent Contractor shall be responsible to the management and directors of Company, but Independent Contractor will not be required to follow or establish a regular or daily work schedule. Supply all necessary equipment, materials and supplies. Independent Contractor will not rely on the equipment or offices of Company for completion of tasks and duties set forth pursuant to this Agreement. Any advice given Independent Contractors regarding the scope of work shall be considered a suggestion only, not an instruction. Company retains the right to inspect, stop, or alter the work of Independent Contractor to assure its conformity with this Agreement. ASSURANCE OF SERVICES Independent Contractor will assure that the following individuals (the \"Key Employees\") will be available to perform, and will perform, the Services hereunder until they are completed (identify by title and name as applicable): [Name of Key Employee, Title] [Name of Key Employee, Title] The Key Employees may be changed only with the prior written approval of the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld. COMPENSATION Independent Contractor shall be entitled to compensation for performing those tasks and duties related to the Scope of Work as follows: [Describe] Such compensation shall become due and payable to Independent Contractor in the following time, place, and manner: [Describe] NOTICE CONCERNING WITHHOLDING OF TAXES Independent Contractor recognizes and understands that it will receive a [specify tax] statement and related tax statements, and will be required to file corporate and/or individual tax returns and to pay taxes in accordance with all provisions of applicable Federal and State law. Independent Contractor hereby promises and agrees to indemnify the Company for any damages or expenses, including attorney's fees, and legal expenses, incurred by the Company as a result of independent contractor's failure to make such required payments. AGREEMENT TO WAIVE RIGHTS TO BENEFITS Independent Contractor hereby waives and foregoes the right to receive any benefits given by Company to its regular employees, including, but not limited to, health benefits, vacation and sick leave benefits, profit sharing plans, etc. This waiver is applicable to all non-salary benefits which might otherwise be found to accrue to the Independent Contractor by virtue of their services to Company, and is effective for the entire duration of Independent Contractor's agreement with Company. This waiver is effective independently of Independent Contractor's employment status as adjudged for taxation purposes or for any other purpose. Neither this Agreement, nor any duties or obligations under this Agreement may be assigned by either party without the consent of the other. TERMINATION This Agreement may be terminated prior to the completion or achievement of the Scope of Work by either party giving [number] days written notice. Such termination shall not prejudice any other remedy to which the terminating party may be entitled, either by law, in equity, or under this Agreement. NON-DISCLOSURE OF TRADE SECRETS, CUSTOMER LISTS AND OTHER PROPRIETARY INFORMATION Independent Contractor agrees not to disclose or communicate, in any manner, either during or after Independent Contractor's agreement with Company, information about Company, its operations, clientele, or any other information, that relate to the business of Company including, but not limited to, the names of its customers, its marketing strategies, operations, or any other information of any kind which would be deemed confidential, a trade secret, a customer list, or other form of proprietary information of Company. Independent Contractor acknowledges that the above information is material and confidential and that it affects the profitability of Company. ","Independent Contractor Agreement","6",62,"https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/independent-contractor-agreement-D160.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/160.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#160.xml",{"title":6,"description":6},[100],{"label":101,"url":102},"Consultant & Contractors","consulting-contractor-business","independent contractor agreement","/template/independent-contractor-agreement-D160",{"description":106,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":107,"pages":8,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":108,"thumb":109,"svgFrame":110,"seoMetadata":111,"parents":113,"keywords":112,"url":119},"NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT (NDA) This Non-Disclosure Agreement (the \"Agreement\") is made and effective [DATE], BETWEEN: [YOUR COMPANY NAME] (the \"Disclosing Party\"), a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [YOUR COMPLETE ADDRESS] AND: [RECEIVING PARTY NAME] (the \"Receiving Party\"), an individual with his main address located at OR a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [COMPLETE ADDRESS] WHEREAS, Receiving Party has been or will be engaged in the performance of work on [DESCRIBE]; and in connection therewith will be given access to certain confidential and proprietary information; and WHEREAS, Receiving Party and Disclosing Party wish to evidence by this Agreement the manner in which said confidential and proprietary material will be treated. NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows: NON-DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION Both Parties understand and agree that each Party may have access to the confidential information of the other party. For the purposes of this Agreement, \"Confidential Information\" means proprietary and confidential information about the Disclosing Party's (or it's suppliers') business or activities. Such information includes all business, financial, technical, and other information marked or designated by such Party as \"confidential\" or \"proprietary.\" Confidential Information also includes information which, by the nature of the circumstances surrounding the disclosure, ought in good faith to be treated as confidential. For the purposes of this Agreement, Confidential Information does not include: Information that is currently in the public domain or that enters the public domain after the signing of this Agreement. Information a Party lawfully receives from a third Party without restriction on disclosure and without breach of a non-disclosure obligation. Information that the Receiving Party knew prior to receiving any Confidential Information from the Disclosing Party. Information that the Receiving Party independently develops without reliance on any Confidential Information from the Disclosing Party. Each Party agrees that it will not disclose to any third Party or use any Confidential Information disclosed to it by the other Party except when expressly permitted in writing by the other Party. Each Party also agrees that it will take all reasonable measures to maintain the confidentiality of all Confidential Information of the other Party in its possession or control. TERM The term of this Agreement is [number] of [years/months] from the date of execution by both Parties. TITLE The Receiving Party agrees that all Confidential Information furnished by the Disclosing Party shall remain the sole property of the Disclosing Party. DISCLAIMER","Non Disclosure Agreement Nda","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/non-disclosure-agreement-nda-D12692.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12692.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#12692.xml",{"title":112,"description":6},"non disclosure agreement nda",[114,116],{"label":36,"url":115},"business-legal-agreements",{"label":117,"url":118},"Confidentiality Agreements","confidentiality-agreement","/template/non-disclosure-agreement-nda-D12692",{"description":121,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":122,"pages":123,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":124,"thumb":125,"svgFrame":126,"seoMetadata":127,"parents":129,"keywords":128,"url":133},"","Business Plan Canvas (One Page)","1","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/business-plan-canvas-(one-page)-D12527.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/12527.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#12527.xml",{"title":128,"description":6},"business plan canvas (one page)",[130,132],{"label":18,"url":131},"business-plan-kit",{"label":18,"url":131},"/template/business-plan-canvas-(one-page)-D12527",{"description":135,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":136,"pages":137,"size":9,"extension":10,"preview":138,"thumb":139,"svgFrame":140,"seoMetadata":141,"parents":143,"keywords":142,"url":151},"EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT - AT WILL EMPLOYEE This Employment Agreement for \"At Will\" Employee (the \"Agreement\") is made and effective this [DATE], BETWEEN: [EMPLOYEE NAME] (the \"Employee\"), an individual with his main address at: [COMPLETE ADDRESS] AND: [YOUR COMPANY NAME] (the \"Corporation\"), an entity organized and existing under the laws of the [State/Province] of [STATE/PROVINCE], with its head office located at: [YOUR COMPLETE ADDRESS] RECITALS In consideration of the covenants and agreements herein contained and the moneys to be paid hereunder, the Corporation hereby employs the Employee and the Employee hereby agrees to perform services as an employee of the Corporation, on an \"at will\" basis, upon the following terms and conditions: APPOINTMENT The Employee is hereby employed by the Corporation to render such services and to perform such tasks as may be assigned by the Corporation. The Corporation may, in its sole discretion, increase or reduce the duties, or modify the title and job description, of the Employee from time to time, and any such increase, reduction or modification shall not be deemed a termination of this Agreement. ACCEPTANCE OF EMPLOYMENT Employee accepts employment with the Corporation upon the terms set forth above and agrees to devote all Employee's time, energy and ability to the interests of the Corporation, and to perform Employee's duties in an efficient, trustworthy and business-like manner. DEVOTION OF TIME TO EMPLOYMENT The Employee shall devote the Employee's best efforts and substantially all of the Employee's working time to performing the duties on behalf of the Corporation. The Employee shall provide services during the hours that are scheduled by the Corporation management. The Employee shall be prompt in reporting to work at the assigned time. NO CONFLICT OF INTEREST Employee shall not engage in any other business while employed by the Corporation. Employee shall not engage in any activity that conflicts with the Employees duties to the Corporation. Employee shall not provide any service or lend any aid or assistance to any party that competes with the services offered by the Corporation. Employee shall not provide any services to clients or prospective clients of the Corporation outside of the provision of services for the Corporation, whether such services are provided with or without compensation or remuneration. CORPORATION PROPERTY Employee acknowledges and agrees that while employed by the Corporation the Employee may be provided with use of computer equipment and other property of the Corporation. The use and possession of the such items shall be subject to any policies, requirements or restrictions established by the Corporation. Such items may only be used in performance of the Employee's duties for the corporation. On request of the Corporation, the Employee shall immediately deliver any such items to the Corporation. Upon termination of employment, Employee shall have the affirmative duty to return any such item to the Corporation whether a request is made or not. The obligation to return Corporation property shall extend and include any and all work product, client property, proprietary rights, intangible property, and all other property of the corporation regardless of the form or medium. COMPENSATION The Corporation shall pay the Employee such hourly compensation as determined by the Corporation. Payment shall be at the same time as the Corporations usual payroll to other employees. BONUS & BENEFITS Payment of any bonuses shall be at the complete discretion of the Corporation. No guarantee or representation that any bonuses will be paid has been made to the Employee. Standard benefits that are provided to other non-management employees shall be offered to the Employee, subject to the Corporation's policies and the terms and conditions of such benefits. WITHHOLDING All sums payable to Employee under this Agreement will be reduced by all federal, state, local, and other withholdings and similar taxes and payments required by applicable law. QUALIFICATIONS OF EMPLOYEE The employee shall satisfy all of the qualification that are established by the Corporation. TERM OF AGREEMENT There shall be no guaranteed term of employment. Employer acknowledges and agrees that Employee shall be an \"At Will\" Employee and that Employee's employment may be terminated at any time by the Corporation, with or without cause. FEES FROM EMPLOYEE'S WORK The Corporation shall have exclusive authority to determine the fees, or a procedure for establishing the fees, to be charged to clients by the Corporation for services that are provided by the Employee. All sums paid to the Employee or the Corporation in the way of fees, in cash or in kind, or otherwise for services of the Employee, shall, except as otherwise specifically agreed by the Corporation, be and remain the property of the Corporation and shall be included in the Corporation's name in such checking account or accounts as the Corporation may from time to time designate. CLIENTS AND CLIENT RECORDS The Corporation shall have the authority to determine who will be accepted as clients of the Corporation, and the Employee recognizes that such clients accepted are clients of the Corporation and not the Employee. All client records and files of any type concerning clients of the Corporation shall belong to and remain the property of the Corporation, notwithstanding the subsequent termination of the employment. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The Corporation shall have the authority to establish from time to time the policies and procedures to be followed by the Employee in performing services for the Corporation. This may include, but is not necessarily limited to, employment policies, computer use policies, Internet access policies, email policies, and all other policies, procedures, directives, and mandates established by the Corporation, whether or not in written form or formally adopted. Employee shall abide by the provisions of any contract entered into by the Corporation under which the Employee provides services. Employee shall comply with the terms and conditions of any and all contracts entered by the Corporation. TERMINATION Employee acknowledges and agrees that Employee is an \"at will\" employee of the Corporation. As such, no term of employment is created hereby and employee may be terminated at any time in the sole discretion of the Corporation, whether there exists any cause for termination or not. CREATIONS AND INVENTIONS Employee acknowledges and agrees that any and all work product of the Employee that is conceived or created during the Employee's employment with the Corporation is the exclusive property of the Corporation. This shall include any and all copyrights, trade secrets, confidential information, patents, trademarks, trade dress, ideas, concepts, plans, business plans, business concepts, techniques, inventions, drawings, artwork, logos, graphics, web pages, databases, software, programs, CGI's, plug ins, applications, brochures, inventions, marketing plans and concepts, and all other ideas and work product of the Employee. The Employee acknowledges and agrees that all creations shall be \"works made for hire\" as defined in the [ACT OR CODE]. Notwithstanding the fact that this material may be considered to be a work made for hire, Employee agrees, during Employee's employment and thereafter, which covenant shall survive any termination of the employment relationship, to execute any and all documents requested by the Corporation to confirm the Corporation's ownership and control of all such material, including but not limited to assignments of copyright, confirmations of work for hire status, waivers of proprietary rights, copyright application, and any other documents requested by Corporation. RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS","Employment Agreement_At Will Employee","7","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/employment-agreement_at-will-employee-D541.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/541.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#541.xml",{"title":142,"description":6},"employment agreement_at will employee",[144,147,150],{"label":145,"url":146},"Human Resources","human-resources",{"label":148,"url":149},"Hire an Employee","hire-employee",{"label":36,"url":115},"/template/employment-agreement_at-will-employee-D541",{"description":153,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":154,"pages":123,"size":155,"extension":10,"preview":156,"thumb":157,"svgFrame":158,"seoMetadata":159,"parents":160,"keywords":166,"url":167},"COMPANY NAME:_______________________ Address: _______________________________________ City: ______________________________ State/Province: ___________ Zip/postal code__________ Country: ________________ Phone: _________________ Fax: __________________ Email: _________________________________________ Purchase Order The following number must appear on all related correspondence, shipping papers, and invoices: P.O. NUMBER: Contact: Address: _______________________________________ City: ______________________________ State/Province: ___________ Zip/postal code___________ Country: ________________ Phone: _________________ Fax: __________________ Email: _________________________________________ Ship To:","Purchase Order",49,"https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/purchase-order-D1411.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/1411.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#1411.xml",{"title":6,"description":6},[161,163],{"label":24,"url":162},"sales-marketing",{"label":164,"url":165},"Bids & Quotes","bids-quotes","purchase order","/template/purchase-order-D1411",{"description":169,"descriptionCustom":6,"label":170,"pages":123,"size":171,"extension":10,"preview":172,"thumb":173,"svgFrame":174,"seoMetadata":175,"parents":176,"keywords":183,"url":184},"Invoice Company: Complete Address: ______________________________________________________ Phone:_________________ Fax: ________________ Email: _____________________ INVOICE #: _____________ DATE: ________________ Bill to: Address: _______________________________________ City: __________________________________________ State/Province: ___________ Zip/postal code__________ Country: ________________ Phone: _________________ Fax: __________________ Email: _________________________________________ Ship To:","Commercial Sales Invoice",42,"https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/1000px/sales-invoice-D383.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/imgs/250px/383.png","https://templates.business-in-a-box.com/svgs/docviewerWebApp1.html?v6#383.xml",{"title":6,"description":6},[177,180],{"label":178,"url":179},"Finance & Accounting","finance-accounting",{"label":181,"url":182},"Invoices & Receipts","invoice-receipt","sales invoice","/template/sales-invoice-D383",false,{"seo":187,"reviewer":198,"quick_facts":202,"at_a_glance":204,"personas":208,"variants":232,"glossary":259,"sections":293,"how_to_fill":334,"common_mistakes":375,"faqs":392,"industries":420,"comparisons":437,"diy_vs_pro":452,"educational_modules":465,"related_template_ids_curated":468,"schema":479,"classification":481},{"meta_title":188,"meta_description":189,"primary_keyword":15,"secondary_keywords":190},"How to Start an LLC Template | BIB","Free step-by-step LLC formation guide covering naming, registration, operating agreements, EIN, and compliance.",[191,192,193,194,195,196,197],"how to form an llc","llc formation guide","start an llc template","how to create an llc","llc registration guide","small business llc formation","llc formation steps",{"name":199,"credential":200,"reviewed_date":201},"Bruno Goulet","CEO, Business in a Box","2026-05-02",{"difficulty":203,"legal_review_recommended":185,"signature_required":185},"medium",{"what_it_is":205,"when_you_need_it":206,"whats_inside":207},"A How to Start an LLC guide is a structured operational document that walks founders and business owners through every step required to legally form a Limited Liability Company — from choosing a name and filing Articles of Organization to obtaining an EIN and opening a business bank account. This free Word download gives you a checklist-style action plan you can edit online and export as PDF to track your formation progress from day one.\n","Use it when you are launching a new business and need a clear formation roadmap, converting a sole proprietorship or partnership into an LLC, or setting up a second LLC for a new venture or holding structure.\n","Business name selection and availability checks, registered agent requirements, Articles of Organization filing instructions, operating agreement setup, EIN application steps, state tax registration, and post-formation compliance tasks including annual reports and record-keeping.\n",[209,213,217,221,225,229],{"title":210,"use_case":211,"icon_asset_id":212},"First-time founders","Navigating LLC formation without a lawyer or prior business experience","persona-startup-founder",{"title":214,"use_case":215,"icon_asset_id":216},"Freelancers and consultants","Converting a sole proprietorship into an LLC for liability protection","persona-freelancer",{"title":218,"use_case":219,"icon_asset_id":220},"Small business owners","Formalizing an existing informal business into a legal entity","persona-small-business-owner",{"title":222,"use_case":223,"icon_asset_id":224},"Real estate investors","Setting up a single-purpose LLC to hold a rental property","persona-real-estate-investor",{"title":226,"use_case":227,"icon_asset_id":228},"E-commerce entrepreneurs","Creating an LLC to separate personal finances from online store operations","persona-ecommerce-entrepreneur",{"title":230,"use_case":231,"icon_asset_id":220},"Side-business owners","Forming an LLC for a growing side project before leaving full-time employment",[233,237,240,243,247,251,255],{"situation":234,"recommended_template":235,"slug":236},"Single owner with no partners or investors","Single-Member LLC Formation Guide","llc-member-removal-form-D14004",{"situation":238,"recommended_template":239,"slug":236},"Two or more co-founders sharing ownership","Multi-Member LLC Formation Guide",{"situation":241,"recommended_template":79,"slug":242},"LLC with detailed ownership and profit-sharing rules","llc-operating-agreement-D5209",{"situation":244,"recommended_template":245,"slug":246},"Holding real estate assets in a separate entity","Real Estate LLC Formation Checklist","deed-of-sale-real-estate-property-D1172",{"situation":248,"recommended_template":249,"slug":250},"Registering an existing LLC to operate in a new state","Foreign LLC Registration Guide","registration-rights-agreement-D13280",{"situation":252,"recommended_template":253,"slug":254},"Forming a professional LLC for licensed practitioners","Professional LLC (PLLC) Formation Guide","pllc-operating-agreement-D12979",{"situation":256,"recommended_template":257,"slug":258},"Converting a sole proprietorship to an LLC","Business Entity Conversion Checklist","checklist-business-deductions-D304",[260,263,266,269,272,275,278,281,284,287,290],{"term":261,"definition":262},"Limited Liability Company (LLC)","A business structure that separates the owner's personal assets from business debts and liabilities, combining partnership-style taxation with corporation-style liability protection.",{"term":264,"definition":265},"Articles of Organization","The formation document filed with the state that legally creates the LLC, stating its name, registered agent, principal address, and member information.",{"term":267,"definition":268},"Operating Agreement","An internal document that governs how the LLC is managed, how profits and losses are allocated, and what happens if a member exits or the LLC dissolves.",{"term":270,"definition":271},"Registered Agent","A person or entity with a physical address in the state of formation designated to receive official legal and government correspondence on behalf of the LLC.",{"term":273,"definition":274},"EIN (Employer Identification Number)","A federal tax ID number issued by the IRS, required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file business tax returns.",{"term":276,"definition":277},"Member","An owner of an LLC — analogous to a shareholder in a corporation or a partner in a partnership.",{"term":279,"definition":280},"Pass-Through Taxation","The default tax treatment for LLCs, where profits and losses flow through to each member's personal tax return rather than being taxed at the entity level.",{"term":282,"definition":283},"Piercing the Corporate Veil","A legal outcome in which a court disregards the LLC's liability protection and holds members personally responsible, typically due to commingling of personal and business funds.",{"term":285,"definition":286},"Annual Report","A mandatory state filing — sometimes called a Statement of Information or Biennial Report — that confirms the LLC's current contact and ownership information.",{"term":288,"definition":289},"Foreign LLC","An LLC formed in one state that registers to conduct business in another state, requiring a separate foreign qualification filing in each additional state.",{"term":291,"definition":292},"Manager-Managed LLC","An LLC in which day-to-day decisions are delegated to one or more designated managers rather than being made directly by all members.",[294,299,304,309,314,319,324,329],{"name":295,"plain_english":296,"sample_language":297,"common_mistake":298},"Business name selection and availability check","Identifies the rules for choosing a valid LLC name, how to check availability in the state registry, and how to reserve the name if needed.","Proposed LLC Name: [BUSINESS NAME] LLC | State of Formation: [STATE] | Name availability checked on: [DATE] via [STATE SECRETARY OF STATE URL] | Name reservation filed: Yes / No | Reservation expiration: [DATE]","Skipping the trademark search and only checking the state registry. A name can be available in your state but already federally trademarked — using it exposes you to an infringement claim.",{"name":300,"plain_english":301,"sample_language":302,"common_mistake":303},"Registered agent designation","Documents who will serve as the LLC's registered agent, their physical address in the state of formation, and whether a commercial service is being used.","Registered Agent: [NAME OR SERVICE] | Physical Address: [STREET ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP] | Service Type: Individual Member / Commercial Registered Agent Service | Annual cost: $[AMOUNT]","Using a P.O. box as the registered agent address. States require a physical street address — a P.O. box will cause the filing to be rejected.",{"name":305,"plain_english":306,"sample_language":307,"common_mistake":308},"Articles of Organization filing","Step-by-step instructions for completing and submitting the state formation document, including required fields, filing fees, and expected processing times.","State: [STATE] | Filing method: Online / Mail / In-person | Filing fee: $[AMOUNT] | Expedited processing available: Yes / No | Estimated processing time: [X] business days | Confirmation number: [NUMBER]","Filing in a low-cost state like Wyoming or Delaware without a physical presence there, then failing to register as a foreign LLC in the home state — resulting in double fees and double compliance obligations.",{"name":310,"plain_english":311,"sample_language":312,"common_mistake":313},"Operating agreement drafting","Outlines what the operating agreement must cover — ownership percentages, management structure, profit distributions, voting rights, and member exit procedures.","Management structure: Member-managed / Manager-managed | Members: [NAME] — [X]% ownership; [NAME] — [X]% ownership | Profit distribution: Pro rata to ownership percentage | Voting threshold for major decisions: [X]%","Using a generic single-member operating agreement for a multi-member LLC. Multi-member LLCs require explicit voting rights, deadlock resolution, and buyout provisions that single-member templates omit.",{"name":315,"plain_english":316,"sample_language":317,"common_mistake":318},"EIN application","Guides the user through applying for a federal Employer Identification Number from the IRS online, including eligibility, timing, and what information is required.","Application method: IRS Online (free) | Responsible party: [NAME] | SSN or ITIN of responsible party: [REDACTED] | EIN issued: [EIN NUMBER] | Date obtained: [DATE]","Applying for an EIN before the LLC is officially approved by the state. The IRS ties the EIN to the legal entity — applying before approval can create a mismatch in records.",{"name":320,"plain_english":321,"sample_language":322,"common_mistake":323},"State tax and business license registration","Identifies state and local tax registrations required after formation — sales tax permit, payroll tax account, local business license — based on the LLC's business activities and location.","State sales tax permit required: Yes / No | Permit number: [NUMBER] | Local business license: [CITY/COUNTY], License #: [NUMBER], Renewal date: [DATE] | State employer account: [NUMBER]","Assuming EIN registration satisfies all tax obligations. Most states require a separate state tax ID, and many cities and counties require a local business license regardless of business size.",{"name":325,"plain_english":326,"sample_language":327,"common_mistake":328},"Business bank account setup","Lists what documents the bank requires to open an LLC account and why keeping finances separate from personal accounts is essential for maintaining liability protection.","Documents required: Articles of Organization (certified copy), EIN confirmation letter, Operating Agreement, government-issued ID for all signers | Bank: [BANK NAME] | Account opened: [DATE]","Continuing to use a personal bank account for business income and expenses after forming the LLC. Commingling funds is the most common reason courts pierce the LLC's liability protection.",{"name":330,"plain_english":331,"sample_language":332,"common_mistake":333},"Post-formation compliance calendar","Lists all recurring compliance obligations the LLC must meet to stay in good standing — annual report deadlines, state tax filings, registered agent renewals, and operating agreement reviews.","Annual report due: [DATE] | Filing fee: $[AMOUNT] | State franchise tax due: [DATE] | Registered agent renewal: [DATE] | Operating agreement last reviewed: [DATE] | Next review scheduled: [DATE]","Treating formation as a one-time task and missing the first annual report deadline. Most states charge late fees and eventually administratively dissolve LLCs that miss consecutive filings.",[335,340,345,350,355,360,365,370],{"step":336,"title":337,"description":338,"tip":339},1,"Choose and verify your LLC name","Enter your proposed business name and confirm it includes 'LLC' or 'Limited Liability Company' as required by state law. Search the Secretary of State's online database to confirm availability, then run a basic federal trademark search at USPTO.gov.","Reserve the name in the state registry for $10–$50 if your filing will take more than a few days — names are first-come, first-served.",{"step":341,"title":342,"description":343,"tip":344},2,"Select your state of formation","Identify where the LLC will primarily operate. For most small businesses, forming in your home state is simpler and cheaper than forming in Delaware or Wyoming, which require an additional foreign registration filing in your operating state.","Delaware and Wyoming only make sense for LLCs raising venture capital or holding passive assets — for a local service business, save the dual-filing fees.",{"step":346,"title":347,"description":348,"tip":349},3,"Designate a registered agent","Enter the full name and physical street address of your registered agent. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a physical address in the state and are available during business hours, or use a commercial service for $50–$300 per year.","Using a commercial registered agent keeps your personal home address off public state records — worth the cost for privacy.",{"step":351,"title":352,"description":353,"tip":354},4,"File the Articles of Organization","Complete the state's formation form with your LLC name, registered agent, principal office address, management structure, and member names. File online for fastest processing — most states approve within 1–5 business days.","Pay for expedited processing ($25–$100 extra) only if you have a hard deadline — standard processing is sufficient for most formations.",{"step":356,"title":357,"description":358,"tip":359},5,"Draft and sign the operating agreement","Complete the operating agreement with all member names, ownership percentages, management structure, profit distribution schedule, voting thresholds, and buy-sell provisions. All members should sign and date it.","Even single-member LLCs should have a signed operating agreement — some banks and states require one to open an account or prove entity legitimacy.",{"step":361,"title":362,"description":363,"tip":364},6,"Apply for your EIN","Apply online at IRS.gov/EIN — the process takes about 10 minutes and the EIN is issued immediately. You will need the LLC's legal name, state of formation, and the Social Security Number or ITIN of the responsible party.","Download and save the EIN confirmation letter as a PDF immediately — the IRS does not reissue it automatically and banks will ask for it.",{"step":366,"title":367,"description":368,"tip":369},7,"Register for state and local taxes and licenses","Identify every tax registration and business license required for your industry and location. Enter each registration number and renewal date into the compliance calendar section of the guide.","Check with your city or county clerk's office separately — local business licenses are often missed because they are not handled by the Secretary of State.",{"step":371,"title":372,"description":373,"tip":374},8,"Open a dedicated business bank account","Bring your certified Articles of Organization, EIN confirmation letter, operating agreement, and government-issued ID to the bank. Open the account in the LLC's legal name — not your personal name.","Set a standing rule on day one: every dollar of business revenue goes into the LLC account and every business expense comes out of it. This single habit is the most reliable defense against piercing the corporate veil.",[376,380,384,388],{"mistake":377,"why_it_matters":378,"fix":379},"Forming in Delaware or Wyoming without a physical presence there","If your LLC operates in your home state, you must register there as a foreign LLC anyway — paying formation fees in both states and maintaining two registered agents with no real benefit for most small businesses.","Form in the state where the business actually operates unless a specific tax or legal structure reason justifies an out-of-state formation.",{"mistake":381,"why_it_matters":382,"fix":383},"Skipping the operating agreement for a single-member LLC","Without an operating agreement, some banks refuse to open an account, and courts in certain states treat the LLC as a sole proprietorship with no liability protection.","Draft and sign a single-member operating agreement before filing for your EIN or opening a bank account — it takes less than 30 minutes with a template.",{"mistake":385,"why_it_matters":386,"fix":387},"Commingling personal and business finances","Paying personal expenses from the LLC account or depositing business income into a personal account is the primary reason courts pierce the LLC veil and hold owners personally liable.","Open a dedicated business bank account the week the LLC is approved and never use it for personal transactions — pay yourself through documented member draws.",{"mistake":389,"why_it_matters":390,"fix":391},"Missing the first annual report deadline","Most states impose late fees of $25–$250 and will administratively dissolve an LLC that misses consecutive annual report filings, wiping out the liability protection retroactively.","Enter every annual report due date and filing fee into your compliance calendar on formation day and set a calendar reminder 60 days in advance.",[393,396,399,402,405,408,411,414,417],{"question":394,"answer":395},"How much does it cost to start an LLC?","State filing fees for Articles of Organization range from $40 (Kentucky) to $500 (Massachusetts), with most states falling between $50 and $150. Add a registered agent service ($50–$300/year), an operating agreement template (free to $150), and your EIN (free from the IRS). Total first-year costs typically run $100–$600 without a lawyer, or $500–$1,500 if you use a formation service or attorney.\n",{"question":397,"answer":398},"How long does it take to form an LLC?","Online filings in most states are approved in 1–5 business days. States with paper-only processes can take 2–4 weeks. Once the LLC is approved, obtaining an EIN takes about 10 minutes online. Realistically, you can have an approved LLC, EIN, and open bank account within 1–2 weeks of starting the process.\n",{"question":400,"answer":401},"Do I need a lawyer to form an LLC?","No — most single-member and straightforward multi-member LLCs are formed successfully without a lawyer using state online portals and quality templates. Consider hiring an attorney when ownership is split unevenly among multiple members, when the LLC will hold real estate or intellectual property, or when you anticipate outside investment. A 1–2 hour attorney review of your operating agreement typically costs $300–$600 and is worthwhile for complex ownership structures.\n",{"question":403,"answer":404},"What is the difference between a single-member and multi-member LLC?","A single-member LLC has one owner and is taxed as a disregarded entity (reported on the owner's personal return via Schedule C) by default. A multi-member LLC has two or more owners and is taxed as a partnership by default (requiring a Form 1065 partnership return). Both provide the same liability protection, but multi-member LLCs require a more detailed operating agreement covering voting rights, profit splits, and member exits.\n",{"question":406,"answer":407},"Which state should I form my LLC in?","For most small businesses, form in the state where you live and operate. Forming in Delaware or Wyoming only saves money if you raise venture capital, hold passive assets with no physical operations, or have a specific legal reason. Otherwise, you will pay formation fees in the out-of-state jurisdiction AND register as a foreign LLC in your home state — double the fees and double the annual compliance.\n",{"question":409,"answer":410},"Do I need an operating agreement if my state doesn't require one?","Yes. Even in states that do not legally require an operating agreement, you need one to open most business bank accounts, prove to courts that the LLC is a distinct entity, govern what happens when a member wants to leave, and establish how profits are distributed. A missing operating agreement leaves these critical issues subject to your state's default LLC statute — which may not reflect what the members actually agreed to.\n",{"question":412,"answer":413},"What taxes does an LLC pay?","By default, a single-member LLC is a disregarded entity (no separate federal return) and a multi-member LLC is a partnership (Form 1065). Both types can elect to be taxed as an S-Corp or C-Corp by filing additional IRS forms. Most states also impose a separate annual franchise tax or minimum LLC fee — California charges $800 per year regardless of revenue. LLC members pay self-employment tax on their share of profits unless an S-Corp election is made.\n",{"question":415,"answer":416},"What is a registered agent and do I need one?","Every LLC is required by state law to maintain a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation who is available during business hours to receive legal documents and official government notices. You can serve as your own registered agent, designate another member, or hire a commercial registered agent service. Using a commercial service keeps your home address off public records and ensures someone is always available even when you are traveling.\n",{"question":418,"answer":419},"What happens if I miss my LLC's annual report?","Missing an annual report typically triggers a late fee, a notice of delinquency, and eventually administrative dissolution if the delinquency persists. Administrative dissolution voids the LLC's liability protection retroactively in most states, meaning you could be held personally liable for debts incurred while the LLC was dissolved. Most states allow reinstatement with back fees, but the process is costly and time-consuming.\n",[421,425,429,433],{"industry":422,"icon_asset_id":423,"specifics":424},"Real Estate","industry-real-estate","Single-purpose LLCs isolate liability for each property; operating agreements must address mortgage lender consent clauses and member buy-sell on death or disability.",{"industry":426,"icon_asset_id":427,"specifics":428},"Professional Services","industry-professional-services","Licensed professionals (attorneys, CPAs, engineers) must typically form a Professional LLC (PLLC) with additional state licensing board approvals before practicing under the entity.",{"industry":430,"icon_asset_id":431,"specifics":432},"E-commerce / Retail","industry-ecommerce","Multi-state sales tax nexus obligations arise immediately on formation; the LLC must register for sales tax permits in every state where it has economic nexus.",{"industry":434,"icon_asset_id":435,"specifics":436},"Technology / SaaS","industry-saas","IP ownership must be explicitly assigned to the LLC in the operating agreement; founders who later raise venture capital will typically convert the LLC to a C-Corp Delaware corporation.",[438,441,445,448],{"vs":79,"vs_template_id":439,"summary":440},"llc-operating-agreement-D13347","A How to Start an LLC guide is a formation checklist covering the full process from name selection through bank account setup. An Operating Agreement is a single internal governance document completed after the LLC is approved. You need the formation guide first; the operating agreement is one of its required deliverables.",{"vs":442,"vs_template_id":443,"summary":444},"Sole Proprietorship Setup Checklist","D{PLACEHOLDER_ID}","A sole proprietorship requires no formal registration and offers no liability protection — business debts are personal debts. An LLC requires a state filing and annual compliance but separates personal assets from business liabilities. The LLC formation process is more complex but provides substantially more legal and financial protection.",{"vs":446,"vs_template_id":443,"summary":447},"Corporation (Inc.) Formation Guide","Incorporating as a C-Corp or S-Corp involves additional steps including issuing stock, electing a board of directors, and holding annual shareholder meetings. Corporations face double taxation at the entity level (C-Corp) or S-Corp eligibility restrictions. LLCs offer similar liability protection with simpler governance and pass-through taxation for most small businesses.",{"vs":449,"vs_template_id":450,"summary":451},"Business Plan Template","business-plan-canvas-(one-page)-D12527","A business plan defines your market, strategy, and financial projections — it is a strategic document. An LLC formation guide is an operational checklist for legally creating the entity. Founders typically draft a business plan first to validate the idea, then use the formation guide to set up the legal structure before launch.",{"use_template":453,"template_plus_review":457,"custom_drafted":461},{"best_for":454,"cost":455,"time":456},"Single-member LLCs, straightforward domestic formations, and founders comfortable with state online portals","Free (plus state filing fees of $50–$500)","2–5 hours over 1–2 weeks",{"best_for":458,"cost":459,"time":460},"Multi-member LLCs, real estate holding companies, or any LLC where ownership is split unevenly","$300–$600 for an attorney review of the operating agreement","1–2 weeks",{"best_for":462,"cost":463,"time":464},"Professional LLCs (PLLC), LLCs planning to raise outside capital, or multi-state operations with complex tax structuring","$1,000–$3,000+ for full attorney-handled formation","2–4 weeks",[466,467],"llc-vs-corporation-which-entity-is-right","how-to-maintain-your-llc-liability-protection",[242,469,470,450,471,472,473,474,475,476,477,478],"independent-contractor-agreement-D160","non-disclosure-agreement-nda-D12692","employment-agreement_at-will-employee-D541","purchase-order-D1411","sales-invoice-D383","small-business-expense-report-D13396","service-agreement-D12711","marketing-plan-D1366","financial-projections_12-months-D360","strategic-planning-template-D13857",{"emit_how_to":480,"emit_defined_term":480},true,{"primary_folder":115,"secondary_folder":482,"document_type":483,"industry":484,"business_stage":485,"tags":486,"confidence":491},"incorporation-and-bylaws","guide","general","startup",[487,485,488,489,490],"incorporation","checklist","legal","llc-formation",0.92,"\u003Ch2>What is a How to Start an LLC Guide?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>A \u003Cstrong>How to Start an LLC guide\u003C/strong> is a structured operational document that walks business owners through every step required to legally form a Limited Liability Company — from choosing a compliant business name and filing Articles of Organization with the state, to obtaining a federal EIN, drafting an operating agreement, and opening a dedicated business bank account. It functions as both a formation checklist and a compliance reference, ensuring nothing is missed between the decision to form and the day the LLC is fully operational. This free Word download is editable online and exports as a PDF you can use to track your progress and document every filing date, confirmation number, and renewal deadline in one place.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Why You Need This Document\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Skipping a structured formation process is one of the most common and costly mistakes new business owners make. An LLC that is technically registered but missing an operating agreement, a separate bank account, or a state tax registration can lose its liability protection the moment a dispute arises — leaving the owner personally exposed to business debts. Missed annual report deadlines result in administrative dissolution and late fees, and forming in the wrong state often doubles compliance costs with no offsetting benefit. This guide eliminates the guesswork by giving you a documented, step-by-step record of every formation decision and filing, so you can hand it to an accountant, attorney, or co-founder with full confidence that the entity is properly established and in good standing from day one.\u003C/p>\n",1781185971774]