How to Form an LLC in Massachusetts Yourself (2026 Costs and Steps)

Quick answer

Filing online (or by fax) costs $520: the $500 filing fee plus a required $20 expedite fee. By mail, the filing fee is $500. You file the Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Corporations Division using the form available at Certificate of Organization PDF.

Step 1: Check that your LLC name is available

Search the agency's business name records before filing.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent

Each LLC must maintain a resident agent in Massachusetts, which may be an individual resident of the Commonwealth (so a resident member may serve), a domestic corporation, or an authorized foreign corporation. The agent's office address must be a street address, not a post office address, and the agent's written consent must be in or attached to the certificate.

Step 3: File your Certificate of Organization

File the Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Corporations Division. You can use the form available at Certificate of Organization PDF. The filing fee is $500 by mail or hand delivery. Filing online or by fax adds a required $20 expedite fee, so the total state cost to file online is $520. Online payment is by MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or personal or company e-check.

Step 4: Create an operating agreement

Create an operating agreement that covers ownership, roles, voting, and what happens if a member leaves.

Step 5: Get your EIN from the IRS

Get your Employer Identification Number from the IRS for free at https://www.irs.gov/ein.

Step 6: Keep your LLC in good standing

File an Annual Report on or before the anniversary date of filing the original certificate of organization. The fee is $500. You must restate the certificate information and may amend it (except resident agent/office changes).