How To Start An LLC In Tennessee In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Tennessee, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Volunteer State.
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Tennessee offers excellent advantages for LLC formation with no personal income tax and significant business tax reductions. With a minimum state filing fee starting at $300, no personal income tax, and fast online processing, Tennessee is an attractive state for starting your LLC. Whether you're in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, or anywhere else in the Volunteer State, you can have your Tennessee LLC approved instantly with online filing.
Our top pick for Tennessee LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Tennessee LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay Tennessee's state fee. With their expertise in Tennessee business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee LLC Services
Best Overall for Tennessee ZenBusiness excels at Tennessee LLC formation with their efficient processing and deep knowledge of Tennessee's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Tennessee Secretary of State registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Tennessee's annual report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Tennessee entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable filing
Pros
- Fast Tennessee LLC filing processing
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Tennessee annual report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Tennessee requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Tennessee filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fast Tennessee Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers reliable Tennessee LLC formation with efficient processing. They provide a free Tennessee registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Tennessee's annual report requirements. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Tennessee LLC formed with straightforward service.
Best For:
Tennessee businesses needing efficient formation
Pros
- Quick Tennessee processing
- Free Tennessee registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Tennessee compliance
- Dashboard tracks Tennessee annual reports
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in TN LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Tennessee business formation. Their attorney network includes Tennessee-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Tennessee businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Tennessee businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Tennessee law
- Expedited filing available for Tennessee
- Comprehensive Tennessee legal forms library
- Phone support with Tennessee expertise
- 30+ years serving Tennessee businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Tennessee registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Tennessee Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Tennessee LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Tennessee's thriving music and creative industries, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Tennessee business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Tennessee creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Tennessee business info
- Business cards with Tennessee address
- Standard Tennessee processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Tennessee business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Tennessee
Free Tennessee Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Tennessee LLC formation where you only pay the $300 state fee. They include a free Tennessee registered agent for the first year and handle all Secretary of State filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Tennessee entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Tennessee entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Tennessee LLC formation
- Free Tennessee registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Tennessee businesses
- Handles Tennessee Secretary of State filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Tennessee business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Tennessee registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Tennessee LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Tennessee Secretary of State registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Tennessee entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Tennessee businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Tennessee Secretary of State filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Tennessee LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Tennessee filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Tennessee LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Tennessee's $300 state filing fee. With guaranteed 2-business-day turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Tennessee LLC formation process.
Best For:
Tennessee businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Tennessee formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Tennessee-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 Tennessee LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Tennessee-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Tennessee business needs.
Best For:
Tennessee businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Tennessee-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Expedited Tennessee processing available (additional fee)
- Tennessee business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Tennessee formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Tennessee LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Tennessee business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Tennessee's specific LLC requirements and annual reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Tennessee entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Tennessee expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Expedited processing available for Tennessee
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Tennessee annual report 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 Tennessee business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Tennessee businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Tennessee businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Tennessee compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Tennessee annual report 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
Tennessee LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Tennessee LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Tennessee businesses
- ✓ Tennessee Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Tennessee street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Tennessee Secretary of State
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Tennessee but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Report: Due annually with $300 minimum fee
Tennessee LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $300 minimum (includes up to 6 members, $50 for each additional member)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Report: $300 minimum per year
- • Business License: Varies by city/county and business type
Tennessee LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via Tennessee Secretary of State
- • Processing Time: Fast online filing, several business days by mail
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-5 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Tennessee?
Tax Advantages
- • No personal income tax
- • Reduced business taxes through recent reforms
- • Business-friendly tax structure
Business Environment
- • Growing economy with diverse industries
- • Strong music and entertainment sector
- • Thriving healthcare and technology sectors
- • Strategic location for distribution
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Charging order protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Easy Administration
- • Fast online filing available
- • Straightforward requirements
- • Efficient state processing
Tennessee LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Tennessee?
The Tennessee state filing fee is $300 minimum (which includes up to 6 members), with an additional $50 for each member beyond 6. 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 report fee of $300 minimum. Most Tennessee entrepreneurs spend between $300-$600 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Tennessee LLC?
Yes, Tennessee law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Tennessee 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 Tennessee address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Some services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Tennessee?
Tennessee offers instant LLC approval if you file online through the Secretary of State website. With expedited service through providers like ZenBusiness or Bizee, you can have your Tennessee LLC approved very quickly. Filing by mail typically takes several business days plus mail time. Online filing is generally faster and more convenient than mail filing.
What is Tennessee's annual report requirement?
Tennessee LLCs must file an annual report each year with a minimum fee of $300 (for up to 6 members). The report updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. The fee increases by $50 for each additional member beyond 6, up to a maximum of $3,000. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution. Most formation services provide reminders and some will file it for you.
Can I form a Tennessee LLC if I don't live in Tennessee?
Yes, you don't need to be a Tennessee resident to form a Tennessee LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Tennessee street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Tennessee LLCs?
Your Tennessee LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through the Tennessee Secretary of State website. Certain words like "bank," "insurance," or "trust" may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for up to 120 days for a $20 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Tennessee Cities for LLCs
- • Nashville
- • Franklin
- • Murfreesboro
- • Clarksville
- • Knoxville
- • Chattanooga
- • Johnson City
- • Kingsport
- • Memphis
- • Jackson
- • Germantown
- • Collierville
- • Hendersonville
- • Cookeville
- • Columbia
- • Lebanon
Ready to Start Your Tennessee LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Tennessee LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.