Massachusetts has one of the highest LLC formation and annual report fees in the country, but the state offers strong business protections and a sophisticated commercial-law framework. We guide you through Massachusetts LLC filing, registered agent setup, and ongoing compliance — without the upsells common in the formation-services industry.
Key filing details as of 2026. Fees and processing times are subject to change — verify with Secretary of the Commonwealth - Corporations Division before filing.
Filing Fee
$500
Annual Fee
$500 annual report
Annual Due Date
formation anniversary date
Processing Time
1–2 business days online
Expedited Filing
Available
Filing Agency
Secretary of the Commonwealth - Corporations Division
Annual Report Required
Yes
Publication Required
No
State Income Tax
Yes
Massachusetts charges $500 to form AND $500 annually — one of the most expensive states for LLC compliance.
The Massachusetts filing fee is $500; ongoing annual cost is $500 annual report. These are state fees only — registered agent and other service fees are separate.
Massachusetts typically processes online Certificate of Organization filings in 1–2 business days online. Expedited service is available for additional fees.
The Secretary of the Commonwealth - Corporations Division runs a modern online filing portal at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/cor — most Massachusetts LLC formations complete in under a week.
We guide you through each step — from name selection to getting your EIN.
Your name must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" and be distinguishable from existing Massachusetts entities. We help check availability against the Secretary of the Commonwealth - Corporations Division database before filing.
Massachusetts requires a registered agent with a physical address in the state — not a P.O. Box. We provide registered agent services in Massachusetts and all 50 states.
We prepare and file your Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of the Commonwealth - Corporations Division. Filing fee is $500.
Draft your operating agreement (required practice even when not state-mandated) and apply for a federal EIN — both essential for opening a bank account and establishing your business.
Ready to form your LLC in Massachusetts? We guide you through every step.
Get StartedHonest factors to weigh when deciding whether Massachusetts is the right state for your LLC.
“Business Therapy & Advisory delivered a true five-star experience from start to finish. They handled my entire business formation and entity structure seamlessly, turning what could have been a complicated process into something clear, organized, and stress-free. We were referred by our accountant, and I couldn't be more grateful for that connection. The team made everything straightforward and efficient while still keeping things personable. They matched my sense of humor (which is no small task) while maintaining the right level of expertise and guidance, making the entire experience comfortable and collaborative. I fully plan to continue working with Business Therapy & Advisory for future needs and will confidently recommend their services to other business owners, as well as friends and family.”
Ian Harvey
Timeless Memorial Care, LLC
Have questions about Massachusetts LLC formation? We're here to help.
Talk to an AdvisorDisclaimer: The information on this page is for general guidance and is current as of 2026. Filing fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. We recommend verifying current requirements with the Secretary of the Commonwealth - Corporations Division before filing. This content does not constitute legal or tax advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or tax professional for advice specific to your situation.
Schedule a free consultation and we'll guide you through every step — from choosing your entity type to Massachusetts compliance.