How to File Your LLC Without a Lawyer
A simple guide to forming your LLC on your own—without wasting time, money, or energy.
Do I need a lawyer to start an LLC?
No—you don’t need a lawyer to file an LLC.
In every U.S. state, you can file your LLC on your own by submitting a few basic forms and paying a filing fee. Most of the process is online, and it only takes about 10–20 minutes once you know what to do.
A lawyer might charge $500–$2,000+ to handle it for you. But unless your business has complex legal needs or multiple partners with a formal operating structure, you probably don’t need one.
What are the actual steps?
Choose your state
Where you file your LLC determines your fees, paperwork, and rules. Most people file in the state they live or work in.
Pick an LLC name
It needs to be unique and follow your state’s naming rules (like ending in “LLC”).
File Articles of Organization
This is the official document that forms your LLC. Every state has its own form and filing fee.
Appoint a Registered Agent
This is the person or company who receives legal documents for your LLC. You can often list yourself.
Create an Operating Agreement
Optional but recommended. It outlines how your LLC will operate.
Get an EIN
Like a Social Security Number for your business. Needed to open a bank account and file taxes. Free from the IRS.
Is it hard to file an LLC on your own?
It can feel confusing the first time. You’re dealing with state websites, legal-sounding forms, and a lot of little decisions—like whether you need an Operating Agreement or a registered agent service.
That’s why we built Start With Genie—a simple $49 assistant that walks you through the entire process, step by step. You still file everything directly with your state—but you’ll have clarity at every step.
What does Start With Genie include?
Can I file today?
Yes. Most states let you file online in under 20 minutes. Genie gives you everything you need to do it confidently and correctly—without needing to talk to a lawyer or spend hours Googling.