Just wondering what fees are associated with becoming an LLC. Are they yearly fees? Quarterly fees? Also, is there a website where one can check if a business name is already taken?

TIA

There aren't annual fees really. I used LegalZoom to set mine up.

same here. I had my attorney set the whole thing up and there were never any subsequent fees after that.

You can check your state's Secretary of State's website to see if a name is already in use.

Normally there is an annual renewal fee that needs to be paid which is typically lower than your initial fee when you first file. Fees vary by state, if you have any questions your SOS's office should be able to help otherwise you may want to consider an attorney.

I used LegalZoom also.

Most states allow you to file right online and do name search, no need for an attorney. Fees vary by state and in some states there is an annual renewal fee, (my state for instance) but every state is different. Just check out your state's website and look for a link to starting a business or words to that effect. Good luck.

My state also allows you to file for LLC directly on the State website. For me, it was 1/3 the price of Legal Zoom, and the application was only about 10 questions long.

You really, really, really, really DON'T need an attorney to set up an LLC. My husband is an attorney, and when someone calls and asks him to set up an LLC for them, he just walks them through it on the Sec. of State website, for free. And don't get suckered into that website that will give you your EIN for a hefty fee, either. All you need to do is contact the IRS directly, and you will have your EIN within minutes. Also for free.

Setting up my LLC took, literally, 10 minutes -- including printing out the paperwork and addressing the envelope.

The fee for setting up your LLC will vary by state, but if you call the Sec of State office for your state, they will likely walk you through it. Again, for free.

Thanks for the useful info DebbyJG!

Thank you all for this very helpful information!