LLC Cost in Rhode Island – How Much to Pay for an LLC


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Perhaps you are hoping to form a Rhode Island LLC. People assume that starting an LLC is difficult and costly. However, it’s generally not difficult, and the cost would vary across states. We have all the info you need to know about the cost of forming an LLC, particularly the LLC cost in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island LLC Cost of Filing

Here are the costs involved in forming an LLC in Rhode Island.

Cost of Filing Formation Certificates

The Rhode Island Certificate of Formation is responsible for the majority of the cost, which could also vary depending on whether you’re forming a domestic LLC or a foreign LLC. Still, you can file both at the Rhode Island Secretary of State.

Rhode Island Domestic LLC

  • Online Filing costs $150.
  • Annual Report filing costs $50
  • Name Reservation fee costs $50
  • By Mail: Fill out the application form, and send it to Division of Business Services 148 W. River Street Providence, RI 02904. Costs $150.

Rhode Island Foreign LLC

  • Online Filing costs $150.
  • Annual Report filing costs $50
  • Name Reservation fee costs $50
  • By Mail: Fill out the application form, and send it to Division of Business Services 148 W. River Street Providence, RI 02904. Costs $150.

Note that filing online is ideal, not only because you need to go to the Secretary of State office, but also it would be faster. You won’t have to wait in a queue in doing so.

Rhode Island LLC Formation Service or Registered Agent Fee

You need a registered agent to form an LLC in Rhode Island, hence, added costs for service fees. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries.

LLC Service

Our Rating & Pricing

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#1 TOP PICK

$0 + State Fees

  • 100% accuracy guarantee

  • Worry-free service

  • Great customer support

  • Established reputation

  • Extras are bit more expensive

  • Good customer support

Business Permits and Licenses

The business licenses depend on your business’s activity and location and are renewed yearly. As such, the cost will vary. Check the Rhode Island Department of Revenue for regulatory boards or agencies requiring licensing.

Taxes payable to the Rhode Island Department of Revenue

This article is your ultimate guide to the several taxes that an LLC has to pay in Rhode Island. Read on to know the taxes levied by the state & federal governments in Rhode Island. The state and federal taxes to be paid to the Rhode Island Department of Revenue are :

State Income Tax

Every member of the LLC formed in Rhode Island is liable for the State Income Tax. This tax is charged on the amount a person earns himself through the LLC. Usually, this tax is calculated while filing personal income tax returns. Rhode Island’s standard income tax rate ranges from 3.75% to 5.99%, depending on a person’s income.

State Sales & Use Tax

The current state sales & use tax rate on LLC in Rhode Island is 7%. However, the tax rate changes as per the region or city in which the LLC is formed. Every LLC that sells tangible items or is a service provider, has to collect this type of tax & then pay it to the Rhode Island Department of Revenue.

Federal Self-Employment Tax

Like the State tax, every person earning money from the LLC has to pay this type of tax. It is sometimes called Social Security or Medicare tax. The Federal self-employment tax rate in Rhode Island is 15.3 percent.

Federal Income Tax

The Federal Income Tax is levied on the LLC, depending on the earnings of the LLC, the tax bracket applicable to such earnings, & the manner of filing. This Tax is levied on all the profits earned by the company.

Employee & Employer Taxes

An LLC with several employees drawing monthly salaries has to also pay Employee-Employer taxes, in addition to the taxes mentioned above. These tax implications vary, depending on various factors, e.g., the amount, number of employees, etc.

Cost Comparison between states

Rhode Island shares its borders with two states, namely, Massachusetts & Connecticut. Each of these states has a different rate of taxes levied on LLCs. Let us take a look at this comparative chart.

StatesFiling FeeAnnual/Biennial FeeSales Tax
Rhode Island$150$507%
Massachusetts$125$856.35%
Connecticut$520$5006.25%

Based on the kind of industry you LLC operated in, your LLC will be liable to some other taxes & duties. For Example, if your LLC is in the sector of import & export, you have to pay the import-export duty. You should consult with a professional to verify the tax rates or business costs of registering an LLC in Rhode Island.

Other Costs

F.A.Qs

Can I start an LLC for free?

It is possible to form an LLC without professional help, but forms still have associated costs, regardless of where your LLC is formed.

Is an LLC expensive?

It is difficult to say whether forming an LLC is expensive. Nevertheless, the cost could be anywhere from $40 to $500. If you refuse to hire professionals, you’ll still have expenses like form fees to cover.

Does an LLC need a bank account?

The need to separate personal money from business funds, thus necessitating the creation of a business bank account for your LLC.

How Much Does It Cost to Maintain an LLC in Rhode Island

To maintain an LLC in Rhode Island you will need to pay an annual fee of $50 along with state income tax at 3.75% to 5.99%, sales & use tax at 7% and federal taxes.

One of the key expenses involved in maintaining an LLC in Rhode Island is the annual report filing fee. Each year, LLCs are required to submit an annual report to the Secretary of State’s office. This report includes information about the company’s members, managers, and business activities. Failure to file this report on time can result in late fees and potentially even the dissolution of the LLC.

In addition to the annual report filing fee, LLCs in Rhode Island are also subject to an annual franchise tax. This tax is based on the company’s total authorized shares and can vary depending on the structure and size of the business. Paying this tax is essential to keep the LLC in good standing with the state and to avoid any penalties or fines.

Beyond these annual expenses, LLCs in Rhode Island may also incur costs for other administrative tasks. For example, if the company changes its name or adds members, there may be additional fees for filing the necessary paperwork with the state. Similarly, if the LLC chooses to expand its operations into other states, there may be additional registration and filing fees to consider.

It is important for business owners to factor in these ongoing expenses when deciding to form an LLC in Rhode Island. While the flexibility and liability protection that an LLC offers can be advantageous, it is crucial to be aware of the financial obligations that come with it. Properly budgeting for the costs of maintaining an LLC can help businesses avoid any unintended consequences or financial setbacks down the line.

In conclusion, maintaining an LLC in Rhode Island requires careful attention to detail and a solid understanding of the associated costs. By staying informed about the annual fees, franchise taxes, and other administrative expenses involved in running an LLC, business owners can ensure that their companies remain in good standing with the state and operate smoothly. Being proactive and prepared when it comes to budgeting for these costs is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of any business operating as an LLC in Rhode Island.

In Conclusion

The cost of Rhode Island is much lower compared to other forms of business. Apart from the state filing fees and annual taxes, you might bear the cost of the registered agent. Compare the price of professional LLC services and choose the most affordable one.

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