How To Start An LLC In Delaware In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Delaware, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the First State.
Affiliate Disclosure: We earn a commission from partner links on Simple LLCs. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations. Learn more about our review process.
Delaware is America's premier state for business formation. With a $110 state filing fee, the world-renowned Court of Chancery for business disputes, and unmatched legal protections, Delaware is the top choice for serious entrepreneurs. Over 60% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware, making it the gold standard for business formation in America.
Our top pick for Delaware LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Delaware LLCs, include comprehensive compliance support, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $110 Delaware state fee. With their expertise in Delaware's business-friendly laws and excellent customer support, they make forming your Delaware LLC simple and stress-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Delaware LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Delaware LLC Services
Best Overall for Delaware ZenBusiness excels at Delaware LLC formation with their deep understanding of Delaware's unique business advantages. They handle your Delaware Division of Corporations filing, provide ongoing compliance support, and help you take advantage of Delaware's world-class legal protections. Their team understands why Delaware is the preferred choice for serious businesses.
Best For:
Delaware entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and expert guidance
Pros
- Fast Delaware LLC filing (same-day available)
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Expert knowledge of Delaware business law
- Includes Delaware registered agent service
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Delaware filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year after first year
Fastest Delaware Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast Delaware LLC formation with same-day processing options. They provide a free Delaware registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Delaware's June 1st franchise tax deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Delaware LLC formed immediately while taking advantage of Delaware's superior legal framework.
Best For:
Delaware businesses needing the fastest possible formation
Pros
- Same-day Delaware processing available
- Free Delaware registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Delaware compliance
- Dashboard tracks Delaware franchise tax deadlines
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in DE LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Delaware business formation and deep knowledge of Delaware's legal advantages. Their attorney network includes Delaware-licensed lawyers who understand the Court of Chancery system and Delaware's business-friendly laws. Ideal for Delaware businesses that want to maximize the state's legal protections.
Best For:
Delaware businesses needing ongoing legal support and Court of Chancery expertise
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Delaware law
- Rush filing available for Delaware (1-2 days)
- Comprehensive Delaware legal forms library
- Phone support with Delaware expertise
- 30+ years serving Delaware businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Delaware registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Delaware Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Delaware LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools, perfect for businesses that want to leverage Delaware's prestigious business reputation. They help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation in America's most business-friendly state.
Best For:
Delaware creative businesses and startups needing comprehensive branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Delaware business info
- Business cards with Delaware address
- 1-2 day Delaware processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Delaware business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Delaware
Free Delaware Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Delaware LLC formation where you only pay the $90 state fee. They handle all Delaware Division of Corporations filings and provide a free Delaware registered agent for the first year. Perfect for entrepreneurs who want Delaware's world-class legal protections without premium pricing.
Best For:
Budget-conscious entrepreneurs wanting Delaware's legal advantages
Pros
- Truly free Delaware LLC formation
- Free Delaware registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Delaware businesses
- Handles Delaware Division of Corporations filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Delaware business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Delaware registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Delaware LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service. They handle your Delaware Division of Corporations registration efficiently while helping you maintain the privacy advantages that Delaware offers to business owners.
Best For:
Delaware entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Delaware businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Delaware Division of Corporations filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Delaware LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Delaware filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Delaware LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Delaware's $90 state filing fee. With guaranteed 2-business-day turnaround, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want to quickly establish their Delaware LLC and begin benefiting from the state's superior business environment.
Best For:
Delaware businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Delaware formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Delaware-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Delaware LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Delaware-licensed attorneys who understand the Court of Chancery system, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support to maximize Delaware's legal advantages.
Best For:
Delaware businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and complex structures
Pros
- Access to Delaware-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Delaware processing available (additional fee)
- Delaware business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Delaware formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Delaware LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach with knowledgeable representatives who understand Delaware's specific LLC requirements and franchise tax obligations.
Best For:
Delaware entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Delaware expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Delaware
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Delaware franchise tax reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Delaware business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping Delaware businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements and maximize the state's business advantages.
Best For:
Delaware businesses with complex compliance needs or planning significant growth
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Delaware compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Delaware franchise tax filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (7-10 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Delaware LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Delaware LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Delaware businesses
- ✓ Delaware Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Delaware street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Certificate of Formation: Filed with Delaware Division of Corporations
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Delaware but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Franchise Tax: Due by June 1st each year ($300 for LLCs)
Delaware LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $110 (Certificate of Formation)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Franchise Tax: $300 per year (due by June 1st)
- • Expedited Processing: $50 (24-hour) or $100 (same-day) optional
Delaware LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via Delaware Division of Corporations
- • Processing Time: Same day to 5 business days (expedited options available)
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-7 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Delaware?
World-Class Legal System
- • Court of Chancery for business disputes
- • Specialized judges with business expertise
- • Over 200 years of corporate law precedent
- • Fast, predictable legal resolutions
Business-Friendly Environment
- • Over 60% of Fortune 500 companies incorporated here
- • Over 1.5 million business entities
- • Preferred by investors and VCs
- • Flexible corporate structures
Strong Legal Protections
- • Robust asset protection laws
- • Charging order protection for LLCs
- • Privacy protection for members
- • Sophisticated liability shields
Administrative Efficiency
- • Fast processing times available
- • Online filing system
- • Minimal ongoing requirements
- • No annual report for LLCs
Delaware LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Delaware?
The Delaware state filing fee is $110 for the Certificate of Formation. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), and the annual franchise tax of $300. Most Delaware entrepreneurs spend between $110-$520 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose and whether they use expedited processing.
Do I need a registered agent for my Delaware LLC?
Yes, Delaware law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Delaware street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Delaware address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Some services include the first year free.
What is Delaware's Court of Chancery and why does it matter?
The Delaware Court of Chancery is a specialized business court that handles corporate disputes without juries. It features judges who are experts in business law and provide fast, predictable resolutions. This court system is one of the main reasons why Delaware is preferred by investors, Fortune 500 companies, and serious entrepreneurs - it provides legal certainty and sophisticated protections that aren't available in other states.
What is Delaware's annual franchise tax for LLCs?
Delaware LLCs must pay an annual franchise tax of $300, due by June 1st each year. This flat fee applies regardless of your LLC's income or size. The tax can be paid online through the Delaware Division of Corporations website. Late payments incur a $200 penalty plus 1.5% monthly interest. Unlike corporations, Delaware LLCs do not file annual reports - only the franchise tax payment is required.
Can I form a Delaware LLC if I don't live in Delaware?
Yes, you don't need to be a Delaware resident to form a Delaware LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Delaware street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Many entrepreneurs choose Delaware specifically for its legal advantages, even when operating from other states. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
Why do so many Fortune 500 companies choose Delaware?
Over 60% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware because of its sophisticated legal system, business-friendly laws, and predictable Court of Chancery. Delaware offers unmatched legal protections, over 200 years of corporate law precedent, and a business environment that's trusted by investors and venture capitalists. The state continuously updates its laws to remain competitive and business-friendly, making it the gold standard for business formation.
Popular Delaware Cities for Business
- • Wilmington
- • Newark
- • Bear
- • Pike Creek
- • Dover
- • Rehoboth Beach
- • Lewes
- • Seaford
- • Middletown
- • Smyrna
- • Camden
- • Harrington
- • Downtown Wilmington
- • Christina River
- • Research Triangle
- • Port of Wilmington
Ready to Start Your Delaware LLC?
Join the Fortune 500 companies and thousands of entrepreneurs who've chosen Delaware for their business. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.