LLC Cost in Tennessee — Complete Breakdown
Everything you need to know about forming and maintaining an LLC in Tennessee.
Tennessee LLC Formation Costs
Detailed Cost Breakdown for Tennessee
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization (Filing Fee) | $300 |
| Annual Report / Franchise Tax | $300/yr |
| Registered Agent Service | $150/yr |
| Expedited Processing (optional) | +$50 |
| Operating Agreement (recommended) | $0 – $200 |
| EIN (Federal Tax ID) | Free (IRS) |
| Estimated First-Year Total | $750 |
Cost Comparison: Tennessee vs. Neighboring States
| State | Filing Fee | Annual Fee | Total 1st Year | vs. Tennessee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $300 | $300 | $750 | — |
| Kentucky | $40 | $15 | $205 | -$545 |
| Virginia | $100 | $50 | $300 | -$450 |
| North Carolina | $125 | $200 | $475 | -$275 |
| Georgia | $100 | $50 | $300 | -$450 |
| Alabama | $236 | $0 | $386 | -$364 |
| Mississippi | $50 | $0 | $200 | -$550 |
| Arkansas | $45 | $150 | $345 | -$405 |
| Missouri | $50 | $0 | $200 | -$550 |
Frequently Asked Questions: Tennessee LLC
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Tennessee?
The state filing fee for an LLC in Tennessee is $300. Including a registered agent service (~$150/yr) and any annual report fees ($300), expect total first-year costs of approximately $750.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Tennessee?
Standard processing in Tennessee takes 3-5 business days. Expedited processing is available for an additional $50 and takes 24 hours.
Does Tennessee require a registered agent?
Yes, Tennessee requires all LLCs to maintain a registered agent with a physical address in the state. Professional registered agent services typically cost $150/year.
What are the annual costs of an LLC in Tennessee?
Annual LLC costs in Tennessee include the annual report/franchise tax fee of $300 and registered agent fees of approximately $150/year, for a total of about $450 per year after formation.
Can I be my own registered agent in Tennessee?
Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent in Tennessee as long as you have a physical street address in the state and are available during business hours to accept legal documents.