How much does LLC formation cost in Connecticut?

Connecticut LLC formation requires a $120 filing fee for your Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of State. This upfront cost positions Connecticut in the mid-range among states—more affordable than high-fee jurisdictions like Massachusetts but pricier than budget options like Wyoming.

Beyond the state filing fee, your total formation costs depend on business complexity and service preferences. Connecticut's transparent fee structure and absence of franchise taxes create predictable expenses, making it easier to budget for both startup and maintenance costs.

Mandatory Connecticut LLC formation costs

Expense Amount Notes
Certificate of Organization filing $120 Required state fee for all LLC formations
Registered agent $0 (self) / $100–$300 yr (service) Must have a Connecticut physical address; commercial services charge annually
Operating agreement $0 if self-drafted Not state-required but essential for multi-member LLCs

Connecticut accepts both online and paper filings for the same $120 fee, with online submissions typically processing faster.

Optional LLC formation costs in Connecticut

Several supplementary services can streamline your Connecticut LLC launch, though none are state-mandated. Your decision to invest in these options should align with your business timeline, complexity, and risk tolerance.

1. Professional services

Multi-member LLCs or businesses with intricate ownership arrangements often benefit from professional guidance. Connecticut attorneys typically charge $1,500-$3,000 for complete formation packages that include tailored operating agreements and compliance consulting. Tax advisors charge $150-$600 for initial consultations that can prevent expensive mistakes during your first year of operations.

Business formation services provide an intermediate solution between self-filing and full legal representation. These platforms handle state paperwork for minimal fees while offering add-on services like registered agent coverage and compliance monitoring.

2. Additional filings

Connecticut offers several optional services that may become necessary depending on your business strategy:

  • Name reservation costs $60 and secures your preferred business name for 120 days while you complete formation preparations.
  • Expedited processing for $50 guarantees a 24-hour review if you need immediate approval for business opportunities.
  • DBA filings allow operation under alternative business names, with fees varying by Connecticut municipality.
  • Certificates of Legal Existence cost $50-$100 and verify your LLC's good standing status for banking and lending purposes.
  • Federal EIN applications remain free through the IRS website.
  • Municipal business licenses range from $50-$200, depending on your industry and Connecticut city requirements.

Ongoing annual costs for forming an LLC in Connecticut

Connecticut LLCs face predictable yearly expenses to maintain legal compliance and business privileges. Planning for these recurring costs prevents surprises and ensures continuous good standing with state authorities.

Connecticut provides cost advantages through its no-franchise tax policy for LLCs. Unlike California's $800 annual minimum tax or Delaware's graduated fees, Connecticut allows business profits to pass through to owners without additional entity-level taxation.

FAQs about LLC formation costs in Connecticut

What unexpected fees might Connecticut LLC owners encounter?

The most common surprise is the $80 annual report fee due by March 31st, plus registered agent expenses if you cannot fulfill this role personally.

Does Connecticut refund filing fees for rejected applications?

Connecticut does not provide refunds once your application enters state processing. Careful preparation prevents costly resubmissions.

How do Connecticut costs compare regionally?

Connecticut's $120 formation fee sits between Delaware's $90 and Massachusetts' $500. Connecticut's franchise tax exemption provides long-term savings compared to many surrounding states.

Which businesses face elevated formation costs in Connecticut?

Licensed professions, including healthcare providers, food establishments, and contractors, typically spend an additional $200-$500 on industry-specific permits and regulatory compliance.

Let Discern handle your Connecticut LLC formation

Discern automates Connecticut LLC formation while providing ongoing compliance management and professional registered agent services. Our platform eliminates missed deadlines and administrative burdens.

Ready to expand across multiple states? Discern coordinates formation and compliance in all 51 jurisdictions through a single dashboard. Schedule your demo today to experience streamlined Connecticut business formation and management.

Graphic image of Connecticut state silhouette in grey on a dark teal background with white text that says 'LLC Formation Cost in Connecticut' positioned on the left side
Author
The Discern Team
Published Date
September 1, 2025
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