The preferred jurisdiction for startups, investors, and global founders. Privacy, flexibility, and the world's most respected corporate law.
Delaware has been the gold standard for US business formation for over a century
Delaware's Court of Chancery is a specialized business court with no jury trials. Cases are decided by expert judges (Vice Chancellors) with deep corporate law knowledge, providing predictable, business-friendly outcomes.
Delaware does not require member or manager names in public LLC filings. Your identity as an owner is not part of the public record, offering a level of privacy that many jurisdictions do not provide.
Most US venture capital firms and institutional investors strongly prefer — and sometimes require — Delaware entities. If you plan to raise funding, a Delaware LLC (or C-Corp) is virtually the industry standard.
Delaware permits Series LLCs — a single LLC with internal "series" that can hold separate assets with liability protection between each series. Ideal for real estate investors and fund managers.
Delaware has no sales tax, making it advantageous for businesses selling products or services. This simplifies tax compliance and reduces costs for e-commerce businesses.
Delaware does not impose state income tax on businesses formed in Delaware that operate outside the state. If your business activity occurs elsewhere, you generally owe no Delaware income tax.
Which state is right for your business?
| Feature | Delaware LLC | Wyoming LLC |
|---|---|---|
| Privacy | High — no member names public | Very High — strongest in US |
| Annual Franchise Tax | $300/year minimum (due June 1) | $60/year |
| State Filing Fee | $140 | $100 |
| Registered Agent Required | Yes | Yes |
| Court System | Court of Chancery (world-class) | Standard state courts |
| Investor Preference | Strongly preferred by VCs | Neutral |
| Best For | Startups seeking investment, high-growth companies | Freelancers, consultants, e-commerce, cost-conscious founders |
| Series LLC | Yes | Yes |
Not sure which state to choose? Book a free call and we'll help you decide.
A simple 3-step process — entirely online
Fill out our brief intake form with your business name, address, and owner information. Takes under 10 minutes.
We prepare and file your Certificate of Formation with the Delaware Division of Corporations. We also apply for your EIN with the IRS.
We deliver your Certificate of Formation, Operating Agreement, EIN letter, and registered agent confirmation — typically within 3–5 business days.
Transparent, flat-fee pricing with everything you need to get started
Complete formation package
total (service + state fee)
Secure · IRS Authorized · 2,000+ businesses formed
Delaware LLCs are subject to an annual franchise tax (also called the annual LLC tax) of $300 per year, due by June 1 each year. This is separate from any income taxes and is owed regardless of whether the LLC had any revenue or activity during the year.
Failure to pay the franchise tax for multiple years can result in the LLC being voided by the state. We recommend setting a reminder to pay by May 31 each year. We can also assist with annual compliance for a nominal fee.
The official state document creating your LLC. Required for opening bank accounts and entering contracts.
Your 9-digit federal tax ID from the IRS. Required by every US bank to open a business account.
A Delaware registered agent is legally required. We include Year 1 and can provide ongoing service at renewal.
A customized operating agreement defining ownership, management, and procedures for your LLC.
Step-by-step guidance on opening a US business bank account with Mercury, Relay, or other fintech banks.
We'll remind you of annual obligations including the Delaware franchise tax due date and registered agent renewal.
Join thousands of founders who trust Markup Valley for US business formation. Get started today — entirely online, no US visit required.