{"id":4427,"date":"2026-01-22T11:13:45","date_gmt":"2026-01-22T11:13:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/?p=4427"},"modified":"2026-09-27T15:25:07","modified_gmt":"2026-09-27T15:25:07","slug":"cheapest-state-to-form-an-llc-ranking","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/cheapest-state-to-form-an-llc-ranking\/","title":{"rendered":"Cheapest State to Form an LLC for Amazon FBA and Wholesale Resellers 2026 Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Cheapest State to Form an LLC for Amazon FBA and Wholesale Resellers 2026 Guide\">\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Montana ($35) has the lowest filing fee. New Mexico ($0 annual) is cheapest to maintain. Wyoming is best for non-residents and Amazon sellers. 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New Mexico ($0 annual) is cheapest to maintain. Wyoming is best for non-residents and Amazon sellers. Full 50-state cost breakdown.\",\n  \"image\": \"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Gemini_Generated_Image_1ihu8d1ihu8d1ihu.png\",\n  \"datePublished\": \"2026-01-22\",\n  \"dateModified\": \"2026-09-27\",\n  \"author\": { \"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"WholesaleSeeker\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\" },\n  \"publisher\": {\n    \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n    \"name\": \"WholesaleSeeker\",\n    \"url\": \"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\",\n    \"logo\": { \"@type\": \"ImageObject\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Dark-and-White-Simple-Personal-Name-Initial-Logo.png\" }\n  },\n  \"mainEntityOfPage\": { \"@type\": \"WebPage\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/cheapest-state-to-form-an-llc-ranking\/\" },\n  \"keywords\": \"cheapest llc, llc cheapest state, cheapest llc in usa, LLC for Amazon FBA sellers, LLC for dropshipping, business license to buy wholesale, EIN for non-resident resellers\"\n}\n<\/script>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n  \"mainEntity\": [\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What is the cheapest LLC in USA for online sellers?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Montana has the lowest initial fee at $35, followed by Kentucky at $40. For multi-year maintenance, New Mexico is the cheapest LLC in USA with a $50 filing fee and $0 in recurring annual report fees. For non-resident Amazon FBA sellers, Wyoming is the most practical choice at $100 to file and $60 per year due to banking acceptance and charging order protection.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Which state has the cheapest LLC annual maintenance fee?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"New Mexico and Missouri both charge $0 in ongoing annual report fees. Once formed, you pay zero dollars each year to maintain the entity in good standing, making them the most cost-effective states for long-term ownership.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Do Amazon FBA sellers need an LLC to buy wholesale?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Yes. Authorized wholesale distributors and manufacturers require a formal business entity, federal EIN, and state resale certificate before opening a wholesale purchasing account. An LLC also isolates your personal assets from product liability and commercial claims.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"Can non-US residents form a US LLC to sell on Amazon FBA?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"Yes. Foreign founders can form a US LLC remotely without visiting the country. You appoint a registered agent, file Articles of Organization, obtain an EIN from the IRS through Form SS-4, and open a US business checking account through fintech banks like Mercury or Relay.\"\n      }\n    },\n    {\n      \"@type\": \"Question\",\n      \"name\": \"What states should online resellers avoid when forming an LLC?\",\n      \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n        \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n        \"text\": \"California imposes an $800 minimum annual franchise tax regardless of revenue. Massachusetts charges $500 to file and $500 annually. New York requires newspaper publication costing between $500 and $1,500. Nevada charges $425 to file and $350 per year. Remote sellers without physical operations in these states should avoid them.\"\n      }\n    }\n  ]\n}\n<\/script>\n\n<div class=\"ws-article-container\">\n\n    <!-- DIRECT ANSWER FEATURED SNIPPET TARGET -->\n    <div class=\"ws-direct-answer\">\n        <div class=\"ws-direct-answer-label\">Direct Answer<\/div>\n        <h2>What is the cheapest LLC in USA for online sellers?<\/h2>\n        <p>Montana has the lowest initial filing fee at $35, with Kentucky close behind at $40. These low upfront rates only save money if you live or operate physically in those states.<\/p>\n        <p>For ongoing ownership, New Mexico is the cheapest LLC in USA to maintain. It requires a $50 filing fee and charges $0 in annual report fees forever.<\/p>\n        <p>For Amazon FBA, wholesale reselling, and foreign founders, Wyoming is the practical benchmark at $100 to set up and $60 annually. It combines strong asset protection with reliable US bank recognition.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- BLUF SUMMARY -->\n    <div class=\"ws-bluf-box\">\n        <div class=\"ws-bluf-title\">Quick Reseller Verdict<\/div>\n        <p style=\"margin-top:0; margin-bottom:12px; font-size:0.95rem;\">Selecting the right state for your reseller entity comes down to four standard pathways:<\/p>\n        <div class=\"ws-bluf-grid\">\n            <div class=\"ws-bluf-item\">\n                <strong>New Mexico<\/strong>\n                Lowest maintenance. $50 setup and $0 annual report fees forever. Best for budget-conscious remote operators.\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"ws-bluf-item\">\n                <strong>Wyoming<\/strong>\n                Best for Amazon FBA and non-residents. $100 setup, $60 per year, strong asset protection, and rapid US bank approvals.\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"ws-bluf-item\">\n                <strong>Montana<\/strong>\n                Lowest upfront filing fee at $35. Advantageous for residents or physical operations coordinating with a third-party <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/top-10-amazon-fba-prep-centers-in-the-usa\/\">Amazon FBA prep center<\/a>.\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"ws-bluf-item\">\n                <strong>Home State<\/strong>\n                Mandatory for US-based founders operating a home office, physical warehouse, or employing local staff.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- STRATEGIC INTRO -->\n    <p>Finding the <strong>cheapest state to form an LLC<\/strong> is one of the first decisions you face when launching an Amazon FBA store, an e-commerce brand, or a wholesale reselling operation. For non-US residents and remote entrepreneurs, picking the right state determines your ongoing overhead, your ability to secure wholesale credit, and your sales tax compliance.<\/p>\n    <p>However, upfront state filing fees often mask expensive recurring charges. Arkansas offers an attractive $45 filing fee, yet demands a mandatory $150 franchise tax every year. California requires an $800 minimum annual franchise tax even if your store generates zero profit. Sourcing your LLC without reviewing recurring maintenance fees can quickly wipe out your product margins.<\/p>\n    <p>This guide compares every state using verified 2026 Secretary of State data, focusing specifically on total five-year costs and operational suitability for Amazon sellers, wholesale buyers, and non-resident business owners.<\/p>\n\n    <!-- H2: CHEAPEST LLC IN USA -->\n    <h2>What is the cheapest LLC in USA for resellers and online sellers?<\/h2>\n    <p>When searching for the <strong>cheapest llc in usa<\/strong>, you must separate the one-time formation fee from ongoing yearly obligations. State business filing fees fall into two distinct models:<\/p>\n    <p>Some states offer a low filing fee paired with high annual maintenance. Arkansas ($45 filing, $150 annual) and California ($70 filing, $800 annual) appear affordable at registration, but become expensive within twelve months.<\/p>\n    <p>Other states use a balanced upfront cost with zero annual maintenance. New Mexico ($50 filing, $0 annual) and Missouri ($50 filing, $0 annual) charge standard setup fees while eliminating recurring state reporting costs.<\/p>\n    <p>If you run a remote wholesale business, an online arbitrage store, or an Amazon FBA shop, <strong>New Mexico<\/strong> has the lowest lifetime cost in the country. A single-member LLC formed in New Mexico incurs zero annual franchise tax, requires no yearly informational statement, and costs $50 total over five years.<\/p>\n    <p>For founders who prioritize banking credibility and asset defense, <strong>Wyoming<\/strong> is the most reliable alternative. At $100 to file and $60 per year, Wyoming costs $340 over five years. The additional $290 over five years pays for charging-order legal protections and recognized compliance status across US financial institutions.<\/p>\n\n    <!-- H2: LLC CHEAPEST STATE COMPARISON -->\n    <h2>LLC cheapest state comparison: upfront filing versus annual maintenance<\/h2>\n    <p>To identify the true <strong>llc cheapest state<\/strong>, evaluate how these states handle setup costs, annual reports, and commercial privacy.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"ws-info-grid-3\">\n        <div class=\"ws-info-card ws-card-green\">\n            <h3>New Mexico: Lowest Maintenance<\/h3>\n            <ul>\n                <li>Filing fee: $50 one-time<\/li>\n                <li>Annual fee: $0<\/li>\n                <li>Annual report: Not required<\/li>\n                <li>Ownership privacy: High (member names not published)<\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n            <p>New Mexico is the most affordable state for long-term LLC maintenance. You submit your Articles of Organization once, pay $50, and never pay a state renewal fee.<\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"ws-info-card ws-card-purple\">\n            <h3>Wyoming: Best for Resellers<\/h3>\n            <ul>\n                <li>Filing fee: $100 one-time<\/li>\n                <li>Annual fee: $60 ($62 online)<\/li>\n                <li>Asset protection: Strongest charging-order statute<\/li>\n                <li>Ownership privacy: High (public registry lists agent only)<\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n            <p>Wyoming created the modern LLC in 1977. Its corporate framework is built for asset defense and privacy, making it the most trusted state for e-commerce operators.<\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"ws-info-card ws-card-orange\">\n            <h3>Montana: Lowest Filing Fee<\/h3>\n            <ul>\n                <li>Filing fee: $35 one-time<\/li>\n                <li>Annual fee: $0 through 2027<\/li>\n                <li>Best for: Montana residents and regional prep operations<\/li>\n                <li>Runner-up: Kentucky ($40 filing, $15 annual)<\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n            <p>Montana has the lowest initial state filing fee in the country. The state also levies no general sales tax, making it a major hub for logistics and fulfillment.<\/p>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- H2: LLC FOR AMAZON FBA AND DROPSHIPPING -->\n    <h2>Cheapest LLC options for Amazon FBA sellers and dropshipping businesses<\/h2>\n    <p>Launching an <strong>LLC for Amazon FBA sellers<\/strong> or dropshipping operations protects your personal assets and streamlines corporate compliance. While Amazon permits individuals to sell under a sole proprietorship, operating without an LLC creates substantial business risk.<\/p>\n    <p>If a product you resell causes property damage or personal injury, an injured consumer or brand owner can target your personal bank accounts, vehicles, and real estate. A properly structured LLC establishes a distinct legal barrier between business debts and personal assets.<\/p>\n    <p>Amazon Seller Central also enforces strict identity verification protocols during account onboarding. You must provide:<\/p>\n    <ul>\n        <li>A registered corporate entity name exactly matching state filings.<\/li>\n        <li>A federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS.<\/li>\n        <li>A commercial business bank account under the identical corporate name.<\/li>\n        <li>A utility bill or registered business address verifying corporate presence.<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n    <p>When selecting a state for your Amazon enterprise, take into account your fulfillment model. If you ship inventory into Amazon fulfillment centers, Amazon distributes your units across nationwide warehouses. Under marketplace facilitator laws, Amazon automatically collects and remits sales tax on transactions in nearly every state, removing the historic burden of multi-state sales tax registration for marketplace sales.<\/p>\n    <p>Before sourcing large product batches, calculate your net FBA margins with our <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/calculators\/amazon-fba-profit-calculator\/\">Amazon FBA Profit Calculator<\/a> and verify shipping thresholds with our <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/calculators\/wholesale-price-calculator\/\">Wholesale Price Calculator<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n    <!-- H2: BUSINESS LICENSE AND RESALE CERTIFICATE -->\n    <h2>Business license and resale certificate requirements to buy wholesale<\/h2>\n    <p>Securing a <strong>business license to buy wholesale<\/strong> inventory is mandatory when working with direct brands and enterprise distributors. Legitimate manufacturers and master distributors listed in our directory do not sell to general retail consumers.<\/p>\n    <p>Distributors require wholesale buyers to prove commercial legitimacy for two reasons:<\/p>\n    <p>First, wholesale transactions are exempt from state sales tax because merchandise is purchased strictly for resale. To purchase inventory tax-free, distributors require a copy of your state Resale Certificate, also called a Reseller Permit, Sales Tax Exemption Certificate, or Certificate of Authority.<\/p>\n    <p>Second, tier-one brands enforce minimum advertised pricing policies. Verifying your LLC and EIN confirms you are an authorized commercial reseller.<\/p>\n    <p>To obtain a resale certificate, you must first register your LLC with the state and receive your federal EIN from the IRS. Once established, submit an application to your state Department of Revenue for a Sales and Use Tax Permit. With that permit issued, you can execute resale exemption certificates for distributors across the country.<\/p>\n    <p>For step-by-step guidance on state sales tax registration, review our complete guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/do-i-need-a-resale-certificate-to-buy-wholesale\/\">resale certificate requirements to buy wholesale<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"ws-cta-box\">\n        <h3>Connect with Verified Wholesale Distributors<\/h3>\n        <p>Browse pre-vetted wholesale suppliers, liquidation specialists, and brand distributors that supply Amazon FBA sellers.<\/p>\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/listing-category\/amazon-fba\/\">Explore Amazon FBA Suppliers<\/a>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- H2: NON-RESIDENTS AND FOREIGN RESELLERS -->\n    <h2>Cheapest LLC and EIN for non-resident resellers<\/h2>\n    <p>International founders residing in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Europe, South Asia, or Latin America can form a US LLC entirely online without traveling to the United States. A US entity allows international sellers to access wholesale supplier pricing, open a US commercial bank account, and integrate with US payment gateways.<\/p>\n    <p>The setup sequence for international sellers follows five concrete steps:<\/p>\n    <p>1. Appoint a registered agent. Every state requires a physical address in that state to receive official mail and service of process. Commercial registered agents typically cost between $40 and $100 annually.<\/p>\n    <p>2. File Articles of Organization online. Submit the paperwork through the Secretary of State portal. Wyoming ($100) offers strong privacy and banking recognition, while New Mexico ($50) carries the lowest ongoing expense.<\/p>\n    <p>3. Obtain a federal EIN. Foreign founders without an SSN or ITIN can apply directly to the IRS using Form SS-4 by fax. The IRS charges zero fees for this, and processing takes roughly one to three weeks.<\/p>\n    <p>4. Open a US business checking account. With your Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, and IRS EIN letter (Form CP 575 or 147C), you can open an account remotely through fintech platforms such as Mercury, Relay, or Wise Business.<\/p>\n    <p>5. Route inventory to a US prep facility. Because international sellers cannot receive freight shipments at home, suppliers ship goods directly to domestic preparation hubs. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/listing-category\/prep-and-3pl\/\">Prep and 3PL Services Directory<\/a> lists centers that inspect, label, and forward inventory to Amazon fulfillment centers. To avoid state sales tax on inbound wholesale purchases, consider <a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/listing-category\/tax-free-prep-centers\/\">Tax-Free Prep Centers in Montana, Oregon, Delaware, and New Hampshire<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n    <!-- 5-YEAR COST COMPARISON -->\n    <h2>Five-year total cost comparison for top reseller states<\/h2>\n    <p>The upfront filing fee represents only a fraction of your real corporate overhead. Here is the total cost profile over five years across the primary states used by online business owners:<\/p>\n    <div class=\"ws-table-wrapper\">\n        <table class=\"ws-compare-table\">\n            <thead>\n                <tr>\n                    <th>State<\/th>\n                    <th>Year 1 Cost<\/th>\n                    <th>Annual Fee<\/th>\n                    <th>Five-Year Total<\/th>\n                    <th>Optimal Reseller Profile<\/th>\n                <\/tr>\n            <\/thead>\n            <tbody>\n                <tr class=\"winner\">\n                    <td><strong>New Mexico<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#16a34a; font-weight:700;\">$50<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#16a34a; font-weight:700;\">$0<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#16a34a; font-weight:700;\">$50<\/td>\n                    <td>Freelancers, dropshippers, budget remote founders<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr>\n                    <td><strong>Missouri<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td>$50<\/td>\n                    <td>$0<\/td>\n                    <td>$50<\/td>\n                    <td>Zero annual maintenance alternative<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr>\n                    <td><strong>Montana<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#16a34a; font-weight:700;\">$35<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#16a34a; font-weight:700;\">$0*<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#16a34a; font-weight:700;\">$35*<\/td>\n                    <td>Montana residents and regional warehouse hubs<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr>\n                    <td><strong>Kentucky<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td>$40<\/td>\n                    <td>$15<\/td>\n                    <td>$100<\/td>\n                    <td>Low upfront capital entry<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr>\n                    <td><strong>Wyoming<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td>$100<\/td>\n                    <td>$60<\/td>\n                    <td>$340<\/td>\n                    <td>Amazon FBA sellers, wholesale accounts, privacy<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr>\n                    <td><strong>Texas<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td>$300<\/td>\n                    <td>$0*<\/td>\n                    <td>$300*<\/td>\n                    <td>Texas-based companies under $1.23M revenue<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr style=\"background:#fff5f5;\">\n                    <td><strong>Massachusetts<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#dc2626; font-weight:700;\">$500<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#dc2626; font-weight:700;\">$500<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#dc2626; font-weight:700;\">$2,500<\/td>\n                    <td>Avoid for remote or online businesses<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n                <tr style=\"background:#fff5f5;\">\n                    <td><strong>California<\/strong><\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#dc2626; font-weight:700;\">$870<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#dc2626; font-weight:700;\">$800+<\/td>\n                    <td style=\"color:#dc2626; font-weight:700;\">$3,870+<\/td>\n                    <td>Avoid unless operating physically in California<\/td>\n                <\/tr>\n            <\/tbody>\n        <\/table>\n    <\/div>\n    <p class=\"ws-note\">Montana annual report fee is set at $0 through 2027. Texas franchise tax applies only if annual gross revenue exceeds the state exemption threshold (currently $1.23 million).<\/p>\n\n    <!-- STATES TO AVOID -->\n    <div class=\"ws-avoid-box\">\n        <h3>Costly states to avoid for remote resellers<\/h3>\n        <p>Certain states impose disproportionate tax obligations or administrative mandates that penalize remote sellers:<\/p>\n        <ul>\n            <li>California charges a mandatory $800 minimum annual franchise tax on every registered LLC, even if the business operates at a loss or records zero sales.<\/li>\n            <li>New York requires new LLCs to publish formation notices in two county newspapers for six consecutive weeks, adding $500 to $1,500 in print advertising costs.<\/li>\n            <li>Massachusetts combines a $500 filing fee with a $500 annual report fee, making it the most expensive state for ongoing maintenance.<\/li>\n            <li>Nevada markets itself as a tax shelter, but costs $425 to register and $350 each year between its annual list fee and state business license.<\/li>\n            <li>Tennessee levies a minimum franchise and excise tax of $300 each year regardless of income.<\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- FULL 50-STATE TABLE -->\n    <h2>All 50 states LLC cost ranking: verified 2026 data<\/h2>\n    <p>The table below ranks all 50 states by initial Secretary of State filing fee. Review the annual fee and notes column to identify recurring costs before filing.<\/p>\n    <div class=\"ws-table-wrapper\">\n        <table class=\"ws-50-state-table\">\n            <thead>\n                <tr>\n                    <th class=\"col-rank\">#<\/th>\n                    <th class=\"col-state\">State<\/th>\n                    <th class=\"col-fee\">Filing Fee<\/th>\n                    <th class=\"col-fee\">Annual Fee<\/th>\n                    <th class=\"col-notes\">Notes and Hidden Costs<\/th>\n                <\/tr>\n            <\/thead>\n            <tbody>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">1<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Montana<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$35<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0*<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-best\">Lowest Filing<\/span> Annual report $0 through 2027. Best if operating in MT.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">2<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Kentucky<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$40<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$15<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-best\">Low Upfront<\/span> Predictable $15 annual report due June 30.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">3<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Arkansas<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$45<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$150<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-warn\">Recurring Tax<\/span> Mandatory franchise tax increases long-term cost.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">4<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">New Mexico<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-best\">Best Maintenance<\/span> Zero annual report fees. Anonymous ownership permitted.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">5<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Missouri<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-best\">Zero Fee<\/span> No annual report requirement. Reliable low-cost option.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">6<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Mississippi<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report filing required but fee is $0.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">7<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Colorado<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$25<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Streamlined online registration. Periodic report is $25.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">8<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Hawaii<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$15<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Low initial and recurring annual fee.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">9<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Michigan<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$25<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Standard annual report fee due February 15.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">10<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Iowa<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$30<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Biennial report required every two years ($30 online).<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">11<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Arizona<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-warn\">Publication<\/span> Newspaper notice mandate adds $150 to $250.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">12<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Utah<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$59<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$18<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Low annual renewal fee. Efficient state portal.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">13<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">California<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$70<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$800+<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-avoid\">Avoid<\/span> $800 minimum annual franchise tax regardless of income.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">14<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Delaware<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$110<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$300<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Ideal for venture capital. Expensive for solo resellers.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">15<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Indiana<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$95<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$31<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Biennial business report filed every two years ($31 online).<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">16<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Ohio<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$99<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">No annual report or recurring renewal fee required.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">17<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Wyoming<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$60<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-best\">Premier Choice<\/span> Strongest charging-order defense. Accepted by all US banks.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">18<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Georgia<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual registration due April 1. Strong regional hub.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">19<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Idaho<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report filing required but state fee is $0.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">20<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Oregon<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Predictable flat fees. Major tax-free logistics center.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">21<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Virginia<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual registration fee due at end of formation month.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">22<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Louisiana<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$35<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Modest recurring annual report fee.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">23<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Maryland<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$300<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual personal property return fee is $300.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">24<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Oklahoma<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$25<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Standard annual certificate fee.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">25<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">West Virginia<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$25<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due July 1.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">26<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Nebraska<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$105<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$10<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-warn\">Publication<\/span> Newspaper notice requirement adds $100 to $200.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">27<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">South Carolina<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$110<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">No recurring annual report fee for standard LLCs.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">28<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Connecticut<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$120<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$80<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report fee due March 31.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">29<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Florida<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$125<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$138<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-warn\">Late Penalty<\/span> $400 statutory penalty if report is late past May 1.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">30<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">North Carolina<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$125<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$200<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">High annual report fee compared to regional neighbors.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">31<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Pennsylvania<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$125<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$7<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report now in effect ($7 annual fee).<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">32<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">New Jersey<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$125<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$75<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due on the anniversary month.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">33<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Vermont<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$125<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$35<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due within 3 months of fiscal year end.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">34<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">North Dakota<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$135<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due November 15.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">35<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Wisconsin<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$130<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$25<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Reasonable maintenance cost. Simple online filing.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">36<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Rhode Island<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$150<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due between February 1 and May 1.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">37<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Illinois<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$150<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$75<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report fee due before first day of anniversary month.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">38<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">South Dakota<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$150<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">No state corporate income tax. Favorable trust laws.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">39<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Kansas<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$160<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$50<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due April 15.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">40<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Maine<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$175<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$85<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual report due June 1. Expensive entry fee.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">41<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">New Hampshire<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Annual maintenance fee matches initial registration fee.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">42<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Washington<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$200<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$70<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">State business and occupation tax may apply.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">43<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Alabama<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$200<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$100+<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Business privilege tax has a mandatory $100 minimum.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">44<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">New York<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$200<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$9<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-avoid\">Avoid<\/span> Newspaper publishing requirement adds $500 to $1,500.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">45<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Alaska<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$250<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$100<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Biennial report required every two years ($100).<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">46<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Texas<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$300<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$0*<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">No state income tax. Franchise tax kicks in above $1.23M revenue.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">47<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Tennessee<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$300<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$300<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Minimum franchise and excise tax adds $300 each year.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">48<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Nevada<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$425<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$350<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-avoid\">Avoid<\/span> High initial and annual renewal fees without added value.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">49<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">Massachusetts<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$500<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$500<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\"><span class=\"badge-avoid\">Avoid<\/span> Highest ongoing annual fee of any state in the nation.<\/td><\/tr>\n                <tr><td class=\"col-rank\">50<\/td><td class=\"col-state\">District of Columbia<\/td><td class=\"col-fee\">$99<\/td><td class=\"col-bad-fee\">$300<\/td><td class=\"col-notes\">Two-year report fee is $300 ($150 per year average).<\/td><\/tr>\n            <\/tbody>\n        <\/table>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS -->\n    <div id=\"faq\" class=\"ws-faq\">\n        <h2>Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n        <details>\n            <summary>What is the cheapest LLC in USA for online sellers?<\/summary>\n            <div>\n                <p>For initial filing fees, Montana ($35) and Kentucky ($40) are the lowest. However, for multi-year maintenance, New Mexico is the cheapest LLC in USA with a $50 filing fee and $0 in recurring annual report fees. For non-resident Amazon FBA sellers, Wyoming is the most practical choice at $100 to file and $60 per year due to rapid banking approval and charging-order protection.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/details>\n        <details>\n            <summary>Which state has the cheapest LLC annual maintenance fee?<\/summary>\n            <div>\n                <p>New Mexico and Missouri both charge $0 in ongoing annual report fees. Once formed, you pay zero dollars each year to maintain the entity in good standing, making them the most cost-effective states for long-term ownership.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/details>\n        <details>\n            <summary>Do Amazon FBA sellers need an LLC to buy wholesale?<\/summary>\n            <div>\n                <p>Yes. Authorized wholesale distributors and manufacturers require a formal business entity, federal EIN, and state resale certificate before opening a wholesale purchasing account. An LLC also isolates your personal assets from product liability and commercial claims.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/details>\n        <details>\n            <summary>Can non-US residents form a US LLC to sell on Amazon FBA?<\/summary>\n            <div>\n                <p>Yes. Foreign founders can form a US LLC remotely without visiting the country. You appoint a registered agent, file Articles of Organization, obtain an EIN from the IRS through Form SS-4, and open a US business checking account through fintech banks like Mercury or Relay.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/details>\n        <details>\n            <summary>What states should online resellers avoid when forming an LLC?<\/summary>\n            <div>\n                <p>California imposes an $800 minimum annual franchise tax regardless of revenue. Massachusetts charges $500 to file and $500 annually. New York requires newspaper publication costing between $500 and $1,500. Nevada charges $425 to file and $350 per year. Remote sellers without physical operations in these states should avoid them.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/details>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <!-- STRATEGIC RESELLER NEXT STEPS -->\n    <div class=\"ws-alert\">\n        <h3>Next steps to establish your reseller business<\/h3>\n        <p>Once you select your formation state, use our specialized resources to scale your inventory sourcing:<\/p>\n        <ul>\n            <li><a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/do-i-need-a-resale-certificate-to-buy-wholesale\/\" style=\"font-weight:700; color:#0f172a;\">Do I Need a Resale Certificate to Buy Wholesale? Complete Reseller Guide<\/a><\/li>\n            <li><a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/wholesale-accounts-without-a-store\/\" style=\"font-weight:700; color:#0f172a;\">How to Get Approved for Wholesale Accounts Without a Physical Store<\/a><\/li>\n            <li><a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/listing-category\/amazon-fba\/\" style=\"font-weight:700; color:#0f172a;\">Browse Verified Amazon FBA Wholesale Distributors<\/a><\/li>\n            <li><a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/listing-category\/prep-and-3pl\/\" style=\"font-weight:700; color:#0f172a;\">Explore Vetted USA Prep and 3PL Services<\/a><\/li>\n            <li><a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/listing-category\/tax-free-prep-centers\/\" style=\"font-weight:700; color:#0f172a;\">Find Tax-Free Prep Centers in Montana, Oregon, Delaware, and New Hampshire<\/a><\/li>\n            <li><a href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/calculators\/amazon-fba-profit-calculator\/\" style=\"font-weight:700; color:#0f172a;\">Calculate Net FBA Margins with the Amazon FBA Profit Calculator<\/a><\/li>\n        <\/ul>\n    <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Direct Answer What is the cheapest LLC in USA for online sellers? Montana has the lowest initial filing fee at $35, with Kentucky close behind at $40. These low upfront rates only save money if you live or operate physically in those states. For ongoing ownership, New Mexico is the cheapest LLC in USA to<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4429,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[29,36],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4427","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-ecommerce","category-tech-tools"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Cheapest State to Form an LLC for Amazon FBA and Wholesale Resellers 2026 Guide<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Compare filing fees and annual costs across all 50 states. Find the cheapest LLC in USA for Amazon FBA, wholesale reselling, and non-resident founders.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/wholesaleseeker.com\/blog\/cheapest-state-to-form-an-llc-ranking\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Cheapest State to Form an LLC for Amazon FBA and Wholesale Resellers 2026 Guide\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Compare filing fees and annual costs across all 50 states. 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