North Carolina at a glance. The state fee is $125: 32 other jurisdictions charge less to form an LLC and 15 charge more. Keeping it active costs about $200 a year in state costs: the annual report is $200 / yr. Timing: April 15.
What it costs to form an LLC in North Carolina
The state fee to form an LLC in North Carolina is $125. That is the same as Florida's $125.
This is the amount charged by the state itself. It does not include a registered agent, a service company's fee, local business licenses or income taxes.
North Carolina annual report and yearly costs
The report costs $200 every year. Timing: April 15.
Counting the annual report and any flat yearly tax, the state-only cost after the first filing is about $200 per year.
Corporation in North Carolina
The state fee to form a corporation in North Carolina is $125.
This is a flat fee in North Carolina. Coral Filings files every corporation with up to 500 authorized shares.
- Annual report: The report costs $25 every year.
- Other state taxes and costs: Franchise tax of $1.50 per $1,000 of tax base, minimum $200; for C corporations capped at $500 on the first $1,000,000 from 2025.
Coral Filings can form your North Carolina corporation, as a C-Corporation or with an S-Corporation election planned (you file IRS Form 2553 yourself, and individuals who are not US residents cannot own S-Corporation stock). Start your North Carolina corporation. Read what a C-Corp is and what an S-Corp is.
How to form an LLC in North Carolina, step by step
- Choose a name that follows North Carolina's rules and check that it is available in the state's business search.
- Appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in North Carolina. Coral Filings can act as yours.
- File the formation document with the state's filing office and pay the fee. Use the official portal linked below.
- Request an EIN from the IRS.
- Put the annual report deadline on your calendar so the LLC stays in good standing.
Let Coral Filings handle it
You can usually form an LLC in the state where you do business. Coral Filings can form your North Carolina LLC for you and act as your registered agent in North Carolina (or you can name your own). The state fee is charged at cost. Start your North Carolina LLC. We are not a law firm and do not give legal or tax advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in North Carolina?
The state fee is $125. Registered agent, local licenses and service company fees are extra.
Does North Carolina require an annual report for an LLC?
The report costs $200 every year. Timing: April 15.
How much does it cost to form a corporation in North Carolina?
The state fee is $125, a flat fee.
Can I form an LLC in North Carolina if I live in another country?
In most states you can, as long as you have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. Coral Filings can act as your registered agent in the states it sells.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice. For your specific situation, talk to a licensed attorney or CPA.