How to Start an LLC in Georgia for Free
You can't avoid the $110 LLC filing fee in Georgia. But you can spend far less with these cost-saving strategies.
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Start Your LLC for $0 - Just Pay State Fees
- Get step-by-step guidance to form your LLC
- Check business name availability
- LLC formation processing within 14 business days
- Business coaching program (tax, compliance, marketing)
- Invoicing and bookkeeping (30-day trial)
Form Your LLC at $0 + State Filing Fees
- 100% Accurate Filing Guarantee
- File your Articles of Organization
- Check your business name
- Digital welcome packet
- Initial phone consultations on business insurance and taxes
Starter - $0 + State Filing Fees
- 1 year of Worry-Free Compliance (renews at $199/year)
- Standard filing speed
- 100% accuracy guaranteed
- Other services are available with additional costs
No, but you can reduce startup and annual costs through the following:
Looking for a way to start an LLC in Georgia for free? Unfortunately, you can't skip the state's $110 LLC filing fee.
However, you can lower your startup expenses with options like free LLC formation packages and business grants.
In this guide, we'll walk you through practical ways to cut costs, starting with where to get free LLC services in Georgia.
Free LLC Services in Georgia
Forming a Georgia LLC without spending a dime may not be possible. However, thanks to free LLC services, getting expert help without additional cost is.
They'll handle the paperwork for you, so you can avoid small mistakes—like checking the wrong box or forgetting a signature— that often lead to delays or rejections.
What's more, the following providers offer some of the most value-packed formation packages in Georgia.
Inc Authority
It may be hard to believe that a free LLC formation package would have so many useful services—until you discover Inc Authority. Just look at the inclusions:[1]
- LLC registration
- Free year of registered agent services
- Custom-built website
- Your choice of either free 24-hour processing or free EIN assistance
Inc Authority offers a choice between free 24-hour processing and free EIN assistance, but you can only select one. The free 24-hour processing option is particularly useful if you're pressed for time but don't want to pay extra for expedited filing. This also helps you avoid common mistakes when filing on your own in a rush.
ZenBusiness
All free LLC services will prepare and file your Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State at no extra cost. But ZenBusiness goes a step further by including a free year of worry-free compliance services in their plan.
This is really useful for Georgia LLCs because the state requires all LLCs to file an annual report and pay $60 to keep the business in good standing.[3]
If you miss the deadline, your LLC could face late fees or even administrative dissolution. ZenBusiness helps you avoid that by sending reminders and filing on your behalf.
Worry-Free Compliance also comes with two free amendments in your first year, which come in handy if you decide to change your LLC's name, business address, or registered agent. Instead of paying extra for every little tweak, you get some flexibility built in—perfect for new businesses still ironing out the details.
Starter - $0 + State Filing Fees
- 1 year of Worry-Free Compliance (renews at $199/year)
- Standard filing speed
- 100% accuracy guaranteed
- Other services are available with additional costs
No, ZenBusiness doesn't have hidden fees. However, you must take note of the free trials and when they end, like the one-year free trial for their Worry-Free Compliance. You'll be charged regular fees after the free period.
BusinessRocket
BusinessRocket is a national LLC services provider that offers value-packed LLC formation packages. Even their free package includes more than just preparing and filing LLC documents.
You'll also get a free business phone for two months and a website domain for a year.[4] The business phone is especially useful if you want your new LLC to have a more professional image while keeping your personal number private. If you're planning to get these tools anyway, this offer gives you additional savings.
More importantly, BusinessRocket offers real-time consultations. You can talk to an agent to make changes and discuss your business structure before they submit your documents. This helps you avoid paying another $110[3] to file a new application.
LegalZoom
Although LegalZoom doesn't offer as many freebies, their free LLC formation package can still help you big time.
Aside from filing your LLC documents and checking the availability of your preferred business name for free, you also get a complimentary tax consultation from 1-800Accountant.
This is especially useful if you're unsure what the best tax structure is for your Georgia LLC. That one-on-one session can give you clarity on potential deductions, estimated tax payments, and how to stay compliant from day one.
Form Your LLC at $0 + State Filing Fees
- 100% Accurate Filing Guarantee
- File your Articles of Organization
- Check your business name
- Digital welcome packet
- Initial phone consultations on business insurance and taxes
Do It Yourself
Another way to save on costs is to consider doing everything yourself. Just be aware that handling the paperwork on your own can backfire if you miss a step or file incorrectly.
Mistakes can lead to rejected applications, extra filing fees, or even compliance issues down the line.
But if you're confident with paperwork and willing to put in a bit of time, forming your Georgia LLC manually can help you avoid service fees entirely.
That said, here are some of the LLC formation expenses you still need to prepare for:
| Georgia LLC fees | Cost |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $110[3] |
| Business name reservation | $35[3] |
| Business permits and licenses | $50+ |
| Minimum Cost | $195 |
How to Form an LLC in Georgia
Starting an LLC in Georgia is easy enough. You can even do it yourself in six steps:
- Choose a name
Your LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in Georgia. It must also have Limited Liability Company, LLC, or similar at the end. - Appoint a registered agent
A registered agent receives legal documents on behalf of your LLC. They must have a physical address in the state where the LLC does business. - File the Articles of Organization
Next, submit the Articles of Organization and the filing fee to the Georgia Secretary of State. This form usually includes details like the LLC name, registered agent, and business purpose. - Create an operating agreement
An LLC operating agreement contains information like the roles and responsibilities of each member, how new or departing members will be treated, and how business profits and losses will be divided. - Get an EIN
Any LLC with more than one member or with employees must have an EIN, regardless of how it's taxed. This is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the IRS to identify a business entity for tax-related purposes.
- Get business permits and licenses
Depending on your business, you may need additional licenses or permits. For example, you need a sales tax permit if you sell consumable goods. Research state-specific requirements and local rules that apply to your LLC.
Once your LLC is up and running, comply with ongoing requirements like filing the annual registration and renewing business permits and licenses.
You can also use the calculator below to get a clear picture of your minimum startup expenses.
Apply for a Business Grant
Applying for a business grant is another way you can reduce your startup costs. And Georgia has several grant programs that award money to qualified entrepreneurs.
Whether you need startup capital or want to invest in equipment, these programs can give you a financial boost:
- Early Stage Innovation Fund
The Small Business Administration created a $1 billion Early Stage Innovation Fund to help startups with strong innovation or research-based ideas. If your business is built around tech, science, or university research, you may be qualified for funding. - Georgia Export Grant
Planning to sell your products or services outside the U.S.? This state program reimburses international expansion-related expenses, like trade show costs, export certifications, and marketing materials. - Cobb County Entrepreneurship Grant Program
If your LLC is based in Cobb County, you may qualify for a local grant of up to $10,000. It's ideal for small businesses that want to improve operations, buy equipment, upgrade their space, or invest in marketing.
Although not a grant, the State Small Business Credit Initiative could also help you get funding. They work with Georgia lenders to help small businesses access loans and credit. If you're having trouble getting financing through traditional means, SSBCI could be a valuable alternative.
With a Veterans Business Certificate of Exemption, qualified veterans may also be exempted from local administrative and regulatory fees.[5]
Optional Add-ons That Affect Cost
Some LLC formation services offer extras and upgrades that aren't required but might be marketed as helpful or convenient. The most common ones include:
- Registered agent service
- Operating agreement
- Expedited filing
- Annual report reminders
- Tax consultation or reminders
- Business website/domain/email packages
These affect how much you end up spending, even if you're technically forming your LLC for "free." Before accepting any extras, see if it's something you can handle yourself without paying someone else to do it.
Curious to know how much it costs to maintain an LLC in Georgia? Use the calculator below to get a clear picture of your ongoing expenses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Georgia LLCs
Saving money sounds great—but not so much when you're making costly mistakes. If you're trying to cut corners without knowing the rules, you could end up spending more in the long run.
Here are some of the common mistakes to avoid when forming an LLC in Georgia:
Using your home address for business registration
One of the benefits of paying for an LLC service is that they often let you use their office address in your Articles of Organization.
Otherwise, especially for home-based businesses, your personal address becomes part of the public record—something you might not want for privacy or security reasons.
Not having a business plan
Not having a business plan can lead to several financial consequences that may hurt your LLC in both the short and long term. For example, you might overlook recurring expenses and end up draining your savings.
If you're not sure where to start, some free LLC formation packages, like the one from Tailor Brands, include a custom business plan with basic financial planning features to help you get organized early on.
Missing important deadlines
Georgia has strict filing deadlines. So if you miss them, you could face late fees, loss of good standing, or in worst cases, administrative dissolution of your LLC.
Some LLC services offer free lifetime alerts to help you stay on top of filings like your annual report or business license renewal, so you don't risk unnecessary penalties or closure.
Not drafting an operating agreement
Georgia doesn't require an operating agreement. However, skipping it means your LLC will automatically follow the state's default rules, which might not align with how you want to run your business.
You don't have to write one from scratch; plenty of templates are available online. Some LLC services also include a customized version in their packages. For example, Northwest Registered Agent's $39 + state fees package already comes with an operating agreement.
LLC Formation Service - $39 + State Fees
- Privacy by Default (use their address instead of yours)
- Files all paperwork with the state
- 1 year registered agent included
- Free LLC Operating Agreement
- Never sells your data. Ever.
Underestimating tax responsibilities
Say you start selling online, make a few thousand dollars, and assume it's too small to worry about taxes. Then tax season hits, and suddenly you're scrambling to figure out sales tax, self-employment tax, or income reporting.
Misunderstanding your obligations can lead to missed payments, penalties, or audits. Some services, like ZenBusiness, include a free tax consultation with their free LLC formation package, which can help you get ahead of potential issues before they snowball.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can you get a free LLC in Georgia?
No, it's not possible to get a free LLC in Georgia. But you might be able to save money by filing the documents with the state yourself or using free LLC services. You may also be qualified for business grants that you can use to cover the state filing fees.
- How much does it cost to start an LLC in Georgia?
It costs $110 to file the Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State.[3] However, the total cost could be higher if you pay for expedited services, business name reservation, and business permits and licenses.
- How long does it take for an LLC to be approved in Georgia?
If you file online, it usually takes the Georgia Secretary of State 7 to 10 business days to process your application. If you mail it in or hand-deliver it, it can take up to 15 business days.[2]
- Do I need a business license for an LLC in Georgia?
No, Georgia doesn't have a general state business license. However, you'll need a seller's permit if your LLC sells a physical product. You can get it for free through the Georgia Tax Center.
- Can I be my own registered agent in Georgia?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in Georgia as long as you meet these requirements:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have a physical street address in the state (P.O. boxes aren't allowed)
- Are available during normal business hours to receive legal documents and government notices
That said, while serving as your own registered agent is free, many entrepreneurs choose to hire a professional service to avoid missing important documents, especially if they travel frequently.
- Are at least 18 years old
Bottom Line
You can't start an LLC in Georgia completely free, but you can keep costs low by choosing a free formation service, skipping avoidable paid services, and staying on top of state requirements.
Whether you file everything yourself or use a trusted provider, the key is knowing where to save—and where it's smarter to spend.
References
- ^ Inc Authority. Register Your Free LLC Online, Retrieved 11/15/2025
- ^ Georgia Secretary of State. Filing Fees and Expedited Processing of Document Filings, Retrieved 11/15/2025
- ^ Georgia Secretary of State. Corporations Division Filing Fees, Retrieved 11/15/2025
- ^ BusinessRocket. Free LLC Registration, Retrieved 11/15/2025
- ^ Georgia Department of Veterans Service. Business Certificate of Exemption, Retrieved 11/15/2025
Nicole King is a research analyst at CreditDonkey, a business formation services comparison and reviews website. Write to Nicole King at nicole.king@creditdonkey.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for our latest posts.
Note: This website is made possible through financial relationships with some of the products and services mentioned on this site. We may receive compensation if you shop through links in our content. You do not have to use our links, but you help support CreditDonkey if you do.
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