When choosing between starting a Limited Liability Company and founding a Corporation, picking the right option can feel overwhelming. However, deciding how to go about the process of incorporation is simple once you gather the necessary facts. Once you've learned about these two kinds of organizations and have gained a strong sense of what your unique priorities are, the choice about whether to register as an LLC or as a corporation will begin to seem very clear.

The differences between setting up your business as an LLC or as a corporation are numerous, and the more you know about these two kinds of organizations the better equipped you will be to decide how to structure your company. The differences vary by region, as incorporation is regulated by state rather than federal law, so it is a smart idea to consult with a local lawyer in the early stages of your decision making process. Once you know a bit about the differences between an LLC and a corporation, it is time to turn your gaze inward and consider your unique needs. Neither an LLC nor a corporation is ideal in every situation, so in order to pick the right kind of corporate structure for you, it is crucial that you make a frank appraisal of your requirements so that you can weigh the costs and benefits of both options.

In most states, starting an LLC requires substantially less paperwork and lower initial fees than founding a corporation does, which makes it a great way to start doing business with a minimum of hassle. However, because of its impermanence, the growth potential of an LLC is limited compared to the possibilities that a corporation offers. A corporation endures as an entity separate from any single one of its founders, but in many states a Limited Liability Company immediately dissolves in the case of the death, dismissal, or resignation of any founding member. If your primary goal is to get things rolling right away, an LLC may be the right choice, but if your vision for your company includes a long-term plan for expansion, you may want to make the investment of time and money that founding a more permanent corporation demands.