Kickstart Your Business in Minutes
Corporation
Plan to issue shares, go public, or go global? Go there as a corporation.
From $149 + state filing fees
Nonprofit
Create an organization to give back and be eligible for tax breaks.
From $149 + state filing fees
Doing business as
Go by a different business name without creating a new company.
From $149 + state filing fees
What is an LLC?
A limited liability company (LLC) is a type of business entity you can register in your state. The main purpose of an LLC company is to limit the personal liability of its owners—like a corporation—but it also allows the business to operate with simpler, more flexible tax requirements.
Do I need an LLC?
An LLC isn’t always required, but many small business owners form an LLC for personal liability protection. Having an LLC can also help you open bank accounts, enter into contracts, hire employees, and get necessary business licenses and permits.
What is a corporation?
A corporation is a business entity created by filing formation documents with the state, a process also known as incorporation.
S Corp vs. C Corp: What's the difference?
S corporation and C corporation designations are both valid choices when incorporating a business—and whichever you choose, we can help make it happen. Before you make your decision, make sure you understand the pros and cons of each.
What is a nonprofit?
Nonprofit organizations are groups organized for a good cause rather than for profit. None of a nonprofit organization's income is distributed to its members, directors, or officers.
What causes are eligible for a tax-exempt designation?
A nonprofit designation and a tax-exempt status are given only to nonprofit organizations that further certain causes. For example, organizations with religious, scientific, charitable, educational, or public safety purposes would qualify.
What's a DBA?
DBA is an acronym that stands for "doing business as." A DBA is a way to give your business a name that's different from your name or the registered name of your business.
Do I need to apply for a DBA?
You'll need a DBA if you're planning to do business using a name other than your personal name or your business entity's registered name. A DBA isn't always required for a business, but it can be a useful tool.
It's simple to get started
1. Choose your business type
2. Answer a few questions
3. We'll complete and file your paperwork
Business types at a glance
How it protects you
Limited liability protection
This ensures you or other partners aren't personally on the hook for company debts and liabilities.
How it's managed and maintained
Flexible management structure
Corporations require a board of directors, annual meetings, record keeping, and more. LLCs and sole proprietorships have rules too—but they're less strict.
State compliance requirements
After you form, there are annual requirements to keep your business in good standing.
How it's taxed
Taxed
LLCs and corporations have multiple tax options.
Tax exempt
Nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status are exempt from federal income taxes.
How it can grow
Flexibility to raise capital
Get access to funds from banks, venture capital firms, and foundations.
Able to IPO
Only corporations can sell shares on the stock market.
LLC
Corporation
C corp only
Nonprofit
only with 501(c)(3) status