How To Start An LLC In Vermont In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Vermont, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Green Mountain State.
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Vermont offers an affordable and efficient path to LLC formation. With a $155 state filing fee and same-day online processing, Vermont provides a streamlined approach to starting your LLC. Whether you're in Burlington, Montpelier, or anywhere else in the Green Mountain State, you can have your Vermont LLC operational quickly.
Our top pick for Vermont LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer rapid processing for Vermont LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $155 Vermont state fee. With their expertise in Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont LLC Services
Best Overall for Vermont ZenBusiness excels at Vermont LLC formation with their efficient online filing process and deep knowledge of Vermont's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Secretary of State registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Vermont's annual report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Vermont entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable filing
Pros
- Fast Vermont LLC filing with online processing
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Vermont annual report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Vermont requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Vermont filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fast Vermont Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Vermont LLC formation with quick processing times. They provide a free Vermont registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Vermont's March 31st annual report deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Vermont LLC formed quickly without breaking the budget.
Best For:
Vermont businesses needing quick and affordable formation
Pros
- Quick Vermont processing within 1-2 business days
- Free Vermont registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Vermont compliance
- Dashboard tracks Vermont 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 VT LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Vermont business formation. Their attorney network includes Vermont-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Vermont businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Vermont businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Vermont law
- Expedited filing available for Vermont
- Comprehensive Vermont legal forms library
- Phone support with Vermont expertise
- 30+ years serving Vermont businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Vermont registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Vermont Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Vermont LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Vermont's thriving creative and artisan communities, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Vermont business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Vermont creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Vermont business info
- Business cards with Vermont address
- 3-5 day Vermont processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Vermont business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Vermont
Free Vermont Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Vermont LLC formation where you only pay the $155 state fee. They include a free Vermont registered agent for the first year and handle all Secretary of State filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Vermont entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Vermont entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Vermont LLC formation
- Free Vermont registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Vermont businesses
- Handles Secretary of State filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Vermont business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Vermont registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Vermont LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Vermont 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:
Vermont entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Vermont businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Vermont Secretary of State filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Vermont LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Vermont filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Vermont LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Vermont's $155 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 Vermont LLC formation process.
Best For:
Vermont businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Vermont formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Vermont-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 Vermont LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Vermont-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 Vermont business needs.
Best For:
Vermont businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Vermont-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Expedited Vermont processing available (additional fee)
- Vermont business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Vermont formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Vermont 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 Vermont business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Vermont's specific LLC requirements and annual reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Vermont entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Vermont expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Expedited processing available for Vermont
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Vermont 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 Vermont business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Vermont businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Vermont businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Vermont compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Vermont 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
24-Hour Processing Filenow offers fast LLC formation for Vermont businesses with 24-hour processing - the Starter package at $49 plus Vermont's $155 state fee covers essentials, while the Premium plan at $199 includes valuable extras and makes them an excellent choice for Vermont businesses that value speed and straightforward pricing.
Best For:
Vermont entrepreneurs who need fast, budget-friendly formation with 24/7 support
Pros
- 24-hour order processing for Vermont LLCs
- Unlimited phone, email, and chat support 24/7
- Competitive pricing with two straightforward plans
- Vermont-specific compliance alerts included
- Electronic delivery of Vermont state documents
- Premium plan includes free year of registered agent ($119 value)
Cons
- No free formation option (starts at $49)
- Newer company with shorter track record
- Limited ongoing compliance features compared to full-service providers
- No expedited same-day processing for Vermont
Vermont LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Vermont LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Vermont businesses
- ✓ Vermont Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Vermont street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Vermont Secretary of State
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Vermont but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Report: Due by March 31st each year
Vermont LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $155 (affordable and competitive)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Report: $45 per year (due by March 31st)
- • Business License: Varies by business type ($50-$300)
Vermont LLC Timeline
- • Name Availability: Check online through Secretary of State
- • Processing Time: 1 business day online, 7-10 days by mail
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-3 business days with online filing
Why Form Your LLC in Vermont?
Tax Advantages
- • Pass-through taxation for LLCs
- • No franchise tax on LLCs
- • Low annual report fee ($45)
- • Various tax incentive programs available
Business Environment
- • Strong focus on sustainability
- • Growing renewable energy sector
- • Thriving tourism industry
- • Supportive local entrepreneurship programs
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Limited liability for members
- • Privacy protection for members
- • Flexible management structure
Easy Administration
- • Low state filing fee ($155)
- • Fast online processing
- • Minimal ongoing requirements
Vermont LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Vermont?
The Vermont state filing fee is $155 for Articles of Organization. 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 $45. Most Vermont entrepreneurs spend between $155-$500 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Vermont LLC?
Yes, Vermont law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Vermont 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 Vermont address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Many services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Vermont?
Vermont offers efficient LLC processing times. Online filings through the Secretary of State are typically processed within one business day. If you file by mail or in-person, processing takes 7-10 business days. Most formation services can help streamline this process.
What is Vermont's annual report requirement?
Vermont LLCs must file an annual report by March 31st each year. The report costs $45 and can be filed online through the Secretary of State's website. It updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution. Most formation services provide reminders and some will file it for you.
Can I form a Vermont LLC if I don't live in Vermont?
Yes, you don't need to be a Vermont resident to form a Vermont LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Vermont 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 Vermont LLCs?
Your Vermont 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 Vermont Secretary of State's 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 fee of $25 if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Vermont Cities for LLCs
- • Burlington
- • St. Albans
- • Newport
- • Stowe
- • Montpelier
- • Barre
- • Waterbury
- • Middlebury
- • Brattleboro
- • Rutland
- • Manchester
- • Bennington
- • White River Junction
- • Springfield
- • Windsor
- • St. Johnsbury
Ready to Start Your Vermont LLC?
Join Vermont entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.