Forming an LLC in Delaware (2026): 7 Procedures and the 3 Best LLC Services
Ranked by measured reading, the services for forming an LLC in Delaware in 2026 are Delaware Registered Agent.ai ($199), Mainstay Filing ($199) and DE Registered Agent.org ($199). 7 procedures follow; the state's charge measures $110, and the Annual LLC Tax adds $400.
2. Mainstay Filing: best for filing and upkeep on one invoice
$199 a year, with $309 at checkout for the state fee
Reading 2 belongs to Mainstay Filing, because one annual charge of $199 replaces three separate purchases: the filing, the registered agent and the annual tax.
Delaware Registered Agent.ai measures $200 lower over three years, which keeps this service out of first place.
The owner does not file the Annual LLC Tax; the $400 state fee is simply passed through.
Prices are recorded from each company's own site on November 13, 2026. Every row needs the $110 state fee added.
Formation in sequence
Procedure1
Procedure 1: Test the name for availability
The first observation to make is a name search at the Delaware Secretary of State, before any filing is prepared under a name already in use.
TipHold a fallback name in reserve.
Procedure2
Procedure 2: Place a registered agent on record
Every LLC must name a registered agent with an in-state street address. The LLC itself, a Delaware resident, or a business entity formed in Delaware or authorized to do business there.
The address has to be a registered office in Delaware. An entity agent keeps a business office there that is generally open; an individual agent has to be generally present there. A virtual office or mail-forwarding service alone does not qualify.
TipAny ranked service can be engaged for this procedure.
The state's fee is $110 on either route. A service adds $199; the readings show which to use.
Procedure4
Procedure 4: Assemble and file the Certificate of Formation of a Limited Liability Company
The Certificate of Formation of a Limited Liability Company is the formation instrument. It goes to the Delaware Secretary of State, and the fee measures $110 (6 Del. C. § 18-201).
The state's fees were read from official pages, which are listed below. Over three years they come to the filing, two reports and, in some states, a minimum tax.
How the readings worked out
moved ahead of on measured cost over three years, which counts for 36%.
Three years with Delaware Registered Agent.ai total $397, which is $200 below Mainstay Filing.
Brief answers
How large is the Delaware state fee for a new LLC?
$110 goes to the state. Service fees among the ranked services run $199.
Which form creates the LLC?
Procedure 4 explains how to complete the Certificate of Formation of a Limited Liability Company and where to send it: the Delaware Secretary of State.
Is a registered agent required?
Every LLC must name a registered agent with an in-state street address.
What does Delaware require each year?
Upkeep consists of the Annual LLC Tax ($400, every year, due annual alternative-entity tax due on or before June 1).
Can I form the LLC without a service?
Yes. The state takes $110 at filing, and the LLC must still name a registered agent.
Which LLC service should a first-time founder use?
The order of the readings is Delaware Registered Agent.ai, Mainstay Filing and DE Registered Agent.org. Delaware Registered Agent.ai is first because formation measures $199 beyond the state fee; the agent renews at $99.