2026 Guide

How to Start an LLC in Massachusetts

The complete guide to filing fees, Secretary of the Commonwealth forms, and requirements.

The American LLC Research Team

Formation, Compliance and Tax Research

Last reviewed September 2026

Filing Fee

$500

Processing Time

3–5 business days

Compliance

Annual Report

Massachusetts filing fee, annual report fee and name reservation fee verified September 2026 against the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.

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Step 1: Choose Your Business Type

Select your industry to see a custom guide for Massachusetts.

Home Improvement & Construction

Handyman→Electrician→Plumbing→HVAC→Roofing→Solar Panel→Construction→Painting→Fencing→Flooring→

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning→Pressure Washing→Car Detailing→Pool Cleaning→Pest Control→Landscaping→Home Inspection→Junk Removal→

Digital & Technology

Web Design→App Development→Cybersecurity→Digital Marketing→Graphic Design→Freelance Writing→Virtual Assistant→Dropshipping→YouTuber→

Professional & Business

Real Estate→Accounting→Bookkeeping→Consulting→Notary Public→Logistics→Trucking→Travel Agency→Airbnb→

Food, Retail & Events

Food Truck→Catering→Bakery→Coffee Shop→Vending Machine→Clothing Brand→Candle Making→Event Planning→Photography→

Personal Care & Education

Personal Training→Gym→Life Coaching→Daycare→Tutoring→Dog Walking→Interior Design→

1Name Your Massachusetts LLC

The first listing requirement is ensuring your business name is unique. It must be distinguishable from other entities registered with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. You must also include a designator like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to comply with state statutes.

2Assign a Registered Agent

Every Massachusetts LLC must appoint a Registered Agent. This individual or business entity agrees to accept legal documents (Service of Process) on behalf of your company. They must have a physical street address in Massachusetts (not a P.O. Box) and be available during regular business hours.

3File Articles of Organization

To officially create your entity, you must file the Articles of Organization with the state. The filing fee is $500. This fee is non-refundable. Most entrepreneurs choose to file online for faster approval, which typically takes 3–5 business days.

4Get Your EIN & Bank Account

Once your LLC is approved, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. This nine-digit number is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts is critical for maintaining your liability protection.

Massachusetts LLC Cost Breakdown

The cost to open an LLC in Massachusetts includes both the initial filing fee and ongoing compliance fees. Here is the breakdown:

ItemEstimated Cost
State Filing Fee (LLC)$500
Annual Report Fee$500
Report Due DateAnniversary Date
Notes & Hidden Costs$500 annual report fee, among the highest in the US

* Fees are payable to the Secretary of the Commonwealth and are subject to change.

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Common Questions in Massachusetts

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Massachusetts?
The state filing fee for a Massachusetts LLC is $500, paid once to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. If you use a formation service, you pay this state fee plus the service's own charge.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Massachusetts?
Standard processing in Massachusetts takes about 3–5 business days, though it varies with filing volume.
Does Massachusetts require an Annual Report?
Yes. Massachusetts LLCs must file an annual report with the Secretary of the Commonwealth. The fee is $500, due by your LLC's anniversary date. Missing it can lead to administrative dissolution.
Is there a minimum annual tax or fee for Massachusetts LLCs?
Massachusetts charges a $500 annual report fee — one of the highest in the country. This applies on the anniversary of your LLC formation each year. Combined with the $500 filing fee, total first-year formation cost exceeds $1,000.
Do I need to file a BOI report with FinCEN for my LLC?
No — not if your LLC was formed in the United States. FinCEN's interim final rule of March 2025, made permanent by a final rule on August 14, 2026, exempts all U.S.-created companies, including LLCs, and their U.S. owners from Beneficial Ownership Information reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. Only entities formed under foreign law that register to do business in a U.S. state must still report. Be wary of mailers or emails demanding a BOI filing fee.
View all Massachusetts FAQs & Legal Data →

Sources

Massachusetts filing fee, annual report fee and name reservation fee verified September 2026 against the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Cost ranges for startup, insurance, job rates and revenue are estimates, not figures from these sources. Fees change; confirm with the agency before you file.