Business Formation / LLC Montana

How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in Montana?

📝 Initial Formation Costs

• Articles of Organization: $35 (mandatory)
  This one-time fee is required to officially register your LLC with the Montana Secretary of State. 

• Name Reservation (Optional): $10
  If you wish to reserve your desired LLC name before filing, you can do so for 120 days.

• Assumed Business Name (DBA) Registration (Optional): $20
  If you plan to operate under a different name than your LLC's legal name, you'll need to file for an assumed business name.

• Registered Agent Service (Optional): $0–$300/year
  You can act as your own registered agent at no cost, or hire a service for privacy and convenience.

• Operating Agreement (Optional): $0–$500
  While not required, drafting an operating agreement is recommended to outline the management structure and operating procedures of your LLC.

• Employer Identification Number (EIN): $0
  Obtaining an EIN from the IRS is free and necessary for tax purposes.

🔄 Ongoing Annual Costs

• Annual Report: $20 if filed by April 15; $35 if filed after April 15 (mandatory)
  All LLCs in Montana must file an annual report to maintain good standing. 

📌 Additional Considerations

• Business Licenses and Permits: Costs vary depending on your business type and location. Check with local city or county governments for specific requirements.

• State Taxes: Montana LLCs are generally pass-through entities for tax purposes, but you may be subject to state income tax, sales tax, or other taxes depending on your business activities.

• Federal EIN: Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is free and necessary for tax purposes.

💰 Estimated Total Costs

• Minimum Startup Cost: $35
  (Filing Articles of Organization)

• Typical Startup Cost with Optional Services: $55–$319
  (Including name reservation, DBA registration, and registered agent service) 

• Annual Maintenance Cost: $20–$335
  (Annual report plus optional registered agent service)

🛑 What additional costs am I responsible for?

In addition to our fee, you will be potentially responsible for the costs of some or all of the items below if applicable.

1. Licenses 
   
2. Filing Fees
3. Reports
4. Name Reservations
5. Articles of Organization