How to start an LLC in Maine
Forming an LLC in Maine costs $175 and online filings are typically approved in about 1–2 weeks. Here's the whole process, step by step.
Filing fee
$175
One-time, paid to the state
Approval time
about 1–2 weeks
Typical for online filings
Ongoing fee
$85/yr
What the state charges each year
Fees and processing times change — always confirm the current figures with the Maine Secretary of State before you file.
The 4 steps in Maine
Pick a name that works in Maine
Your name must be distinguishable from other Maine businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.” Search the state's business database before you file.
File the paperwork
You file a Certificate of Formation with the Maine Bureau of Corporations, online or by mail. The filing fee is $175. Also write a simple operating agreement — it's free, and it keeps your liability protection clear.
Get your free EIN
Apply at IRS.gov and get your Employer Identification Number immediately, for free. You'll need it for taxes and your business bank account.
Open a business bank account
Bring your approved Articles of Organization, EIN, and operating agreement. Keeping business money separate is what makes the liability protection hold.
Optional: name a registered agent service
Every Maine LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state. You can be your own for free — or pay a service to keep your address private. Learn how registered agents work.
Maine's $175 filing fee is on the higher side, so budget for it alongside the $85 yearly report.
File directly with the Maine Secretary of State.
Common questions about Maine LLCs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Maine?
The Maine filing fee is $175, paid once when you submit your Articles of Organization. Getting your EIN from the IRS is free, and you can be your own registered agent for free. Ongoing, Maine charges $85/yr. Fees change over time, so confirm the current amount on the Maine Secretary of State website before you file.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Maine?
Online filings are typically approved in about 1–2 weeks, though times vary with the state's workload. Mail filings take longer. Check the Maine Secretary of State website for current processing times.
Do I need a registered agent in Maine?
Yes — every Maine LLC must list a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. You can be your own agent for free, or hire a commercial service (roughly $100–$150 a year) to keep your address off the public record.
Does Maine require an annual report?
Maine's annual report is due by June 1 each year, starting the year after you form, and costs $85.
Can I form my Maine LLC myself, without a service?
Yes. Filing directly with the Maine Secretary of State is straightforward: pick a name, submit the Articles of Organization online, and pay the $175 fee. A formation service is optional convenience, not a requirement.
Where to go next
Ready to make your Maine LLC official?
Grab the free checklist so nothing gets missed, or compare formation services.