Filing fees for Massachusetts LLCs

Massachusetts charges one of the highest LLC formation fees in the nation at $500 by mail or $520 when filed online—well above neighboring states and the national average. The state automatically adds a $20 "expedited processing" surcharge to all online and fax submissions, making electronic filing cost $520 while paper filings remain at the base $500.

File online through the state's portal or mail paper forms, with online costing $20 more due to automatic expedited processing. Online filings typically process within 1-2 business days, while paper submissions take about a week, including mail time. Unlike many states that offer multiple expedited options, Massachusetts operates with its automatic online surcharge as the primary speed differential.

Current Massachusetts LLC filing fees

Massachusetts maintains a two-tiered pricing system based on submission method, with the state automatically applying an expedited processing fee to electronic submissions. This creates a practical choice between paying $500 for mail filing or $520 for faster online processing.

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The $20 difference isn't optional—Massachusetts automatically applies the expedited surcharge to any electronic or fax submission. There are no additional premium expedite tiers; the state operates with just these two processing tracks.

Additionally, your LLC remains in good standing with a $500 annual report due each year. This creates one of the costliest ongoing compliance burdens in the country, setting Massachusetts apart from most other states, where annual fees range from $0 to $100.

How do Massachusetts LLC filing fees compare to other states?

Massachusetts' structure ($500-$520 to file and $500 annually) creates one of the steepest total cost-of-ownership profiles in the region.

Compare that with neighboring states:

• Rhode Island charges just $150 for formation with $50 annual reports
• Connecticut costs $120 upfront and $80 annually
• New Hampshire requires $100 to form, with $100 yearly maintenance

All three neighbors cost less than half of Massachusetts for both initial formation and ongoing compliance. 

Across the country, Massachusetts ranks among the most expensive states for LLC formation and maintenance. The formation fee places it well above the typical $40-$200 range, while the $500 annual report creates an ongoing burden that few other states match.

Massachusetts avoids the budget-state approach of minimal fees, instead generating substantial revenue from business entities. The high fees haven't deterred formation activity, suggesting businesses value Massachusetts' business environment despite the premium costs.

Additional filing fees to consider for Massachusetts LLCs

While Massachusetts' $500-$520 formation fee and $500 annual report cover the basics, several smaller costs might pop up during your LLC's life. Knowing these upfront helps you build a realistic budget for your first year.

• Name reservation costs $30 for a 60-day hold on your desired LLC name, with one extension available for another $30. This optional service helps secure your name while preparing formation documents.
• Certificate of Good Standing costs $25 and is frequently required by banks, lenders, or when registering in other states. Amendment fees apply when changing your LLC's legal name, registered agent, or business address, though exact amounts vary.
• Registered agent costs vary widely based on your approach. Serving as your own agent costs nothing if you have a reliable Massachusetts address during business hours, but this can come with some hassle and stress. Commercial registered agent services typically charge $100-$300 annually.

Let Discern handle your Massachusetts LLC filings

Discern processes your Massachusetts LLC filings efficiently and handles ongoing compliance automatically, including annual report deadlines. 

Ready to take the stress out of Massachusetts LLC compliance? Book a Discern demo today.