LLCThe LLC Guidewith Chris Jackson, Esq.Free LLC Checklist

Business Tools

Build the systems around your LLC.

Formation creates the entity. These guides help you choose practical services to operate, protect and organize the business.

Use this directory

Start with the job you need to complete.

Recommendations emphasize practical usefulness, clarity and value. Always review current terms, eligibility and pricing.

FORMATION

LLC Formation Services

Compare service fees, state fees, included documents and recurring services before choosing a provider.

Compare formation services
COMPLIANCE

Registered Agent Services

Compare renewal costs, document handling, privacy practices and formation offers from leading national registered agents.

Compare registered agent services
LICENSES & PERMITS

Business License Research

License and permit requirements depend on the business activity and may apply at the federal, state, county, city or industry level. Research the requirements yourself or use Bizee's business-license research service.

Explore license research
BANKING

Business Bank Accounts

Learn what to look for and compare traditional banking with online options such as Bluevine and Lili.

Read the banking guide
BUSINESS ADDRESS

Virtual Offices & Mailboxes

Compare commercial addresses, mail scanning, office documentation, phone service, meeting rooms and workspace options for an LLC.

Compare virtual office services
INSURANCE

Business Insurance

Consider general liability, professional liability, property and other coverage based on what the business does.

Explore coverage options
PHONE

Business Phone with Nextiva

Keep business calls separate and give customers a consistent business number. Review Nextiva's calling, mobile and desktop apps, texting, extensions, integrations and current pricing.

Explore Nextiva
BOOKKEEPING

Accounting & Bookkeeping

Create clean records for income, expenses, owner contributions, loans and distributions from the beginning. Choose a system that your tax professional can work with.

Start with clean, separate records
PAYROLL

Payroll & S Corporation Tools

Owners taxed as S corporations generally need reliable payroll, reasonable-compensation support, tax deposits and coordination with their tax adviser.

Coordinate before the first payroll
DOCUMENTS

LLC Templates

Compare the Free Startup Kit, more comprehensive attorney-drafted templates and custom legal drafting.

Compare template options
LEGAL HELP

Custom Legal Guidance

For California clients and California-connected businesses that need individualized legal help.

Visit Chris Jackson Law

Chris's approach

Use the tool that solves the problem—without buying extras you do not need.

Look separately at required government fees, one-time service fees, optional add-ons and recurring charges. That makes total cost much easier to compare.

Some links are affiliate links. If you use one, The LLC Guide may receive compensation at no added cost to you. Always review the provider's current terms.