South Carolina LLC Cost
The minimum cost to start a South Carolina LLC is $110 in state filing fees. Annual upkeep costs $0 per none cycle, plus any franchise/privilege tax. Here is the full 2026 breakdown.
One-time formation costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $110 |
| Name reservation (optional) | typically $10–$50 |
| Certified copy of Articles (optional) | typically $5–$30 |
| Expedited processing (optional) | typically $50–$1,000 depending on tier |
Annual recurring costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual report | $0 per none cycle |
| Franchise / privilege tax | None for LLCs taxed as pass-through; corporate license fee for LLCs taxed as corporations |
| Registered agent service (optional) | $0–$300/year |
Optional professional services
- Formation service (Bizee, Northwest, LegalZoom): $0–$299 + state fee
- Operating agreement template: $0 (DIY) to $200 (attorney-drafted)
- EIN: $0 direct from IRS — never pay a third party for this
Year-1 minimum spend
If you DIY everything: $110 for state fees in the first year. Add federal taxes, sales tax registration, and any local licenses based on your activity.
South Carolina-specific note
South Carolina does not require LLCs (taxed as pass-through) to file an annual report. LLCs taxed as C-corporations must file an annual report and license fee with SCDOR.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to start an LLC in South Carolina?
File the Articles of Organization yourself online with the South Carolina SoS for $110 and act as your own registered agent.
What does it cost to keep a South Carolina LLC active each year?
Minimum $0 for the none report, plus any franchise tax owed: None for LLCs taxed as pass-through; corporate license fee for LLCs taxed as corporations.
Should I form in South Carolina or a different state?
In general, you should form in the state where you actually operate. Forming elsewhere usually requires Foreign Qualification in your home state, which means paying both.
Sources & further reading
Disclaimer: Legal information, not legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney or CPA in your state. See our full disclaimer.