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Most founders think forming an LLC is a one-time task — file the paperwork, get your EIN, and you’re done. But that’s only half the story. Your real legal protection depends on keeping that LLC active and in good standing with the state.
Missed renewals are one of the most common (and costly) mistakes business owners make. A single missed filing can lead to late penalties, loss of liability protection, or even administrative dissolution — meaning your company legally ceases to exist.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about LLC renewal: what it actually means, how often you need to file, how much it costs, and what happens if you forget.
We’ll walk you through the renewal process step-by-step, share state-specific fees and deadlines, and explain how non-U.S. founders can renew their LLCs online — without ever setting foot in the United States.
Renewing an LLC simply means keeping your company legally active and in good standing with the state. Every state requires business owners to confirm that their company information — such as its address, members, and registered agent — is still accurate and to pay a small renewal or filing fee.
In most cases, this process happens through an Annual Report or Biennial Report, depending on the state’s schedule. Different states use different terms for this process. You might see it called an Annual Registration, Periodic Report, or even a Franchise Tax Filing.
Regardless of the name, the purpose is the same: to officially confirm that your LLC continues to exist and is authorized to do business.
Failing to renew on time can cause your LLC to lose its “good standing” status or even be administratively dissolved, which means losing liability protection and access to business banking.
In most U.S. states, you’re required to renew your LLC every year to keep it in good standing — though some states only require it every two years. This renewal confirms that your company’s details are accurate and that it’s still active with the state.
The exact rules depend on where your LLC is registered. States like Wyoming, Florida, Delaware, and Georgia require annual renewals, while Indiana, Nebraska, and Iowa operate on a biennial schedule. A few, such as New Mexico, don’t require formal renewals but still expect you to pay franchise or income taxes to remain compliant.
Deadlines also differ by state. Some align with your LLC’s anniversary month, while others use a fixed calendar date — for example, Delaware’s franchise tax is due June 1, and Florida’s annual report must be filed by May 1. Missing these deadlines can trigger late fees, loss of good standing, or even administrative dissolution of your company.
If you’re unsure about your state’s requirements, the safest approach is to check your Secretary of State’s online business portal. Each state lists the renewal frequency, deadlines, and filing fees there.
Missing your LLC renewal deadline can have serious consequences. The most immediate result is a loss of good standing, which means your company is no longer compliant with state law. You may also face late penalties or administrative dissolution, depending on how long the renewal remains overdue.
Once an LLC is administratively dissolved, it can’t legally operate, open a U.S. bank account, or enter contracts. In most states, it also loses its limited liability protection, leaving owners personally responsible for any business debts or legal issues.
Reinstating a dissolved LLC can be both time-consuming and expensive. You’ll need to file back-dated annual reports, pay all outstanding fees, and submit a reinstatement application. For example, Florida charges a $400 late fee, while Delaware requires a reinstatement filing and payment of all unpaid franchise taxes before the business can resume operations.
In short, timely renewal keeps your LLC alive, compliant, and legally protected.
Most states let you renew your LLC online. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Each state has its own rules, deadlines, and fees. Visit your Secretary of State’s business filing portal to confirm what’s required. You’ll usually find the due date, filing form, and renewal fee listed clearly.
Before filing, review your LLC’s registered address, ownership details, and registered agent information. Make sure everything is accurate, incorrect data can cause delays or rejected filings.
This is the main step in the renewal process. You’ll be asked to confirm your company’s legal name, principal office address, and management structure. Most states allow you to file online directly through their business portal.
LLC renewal fees vary widely by state, but the national average is around $91. Some states charge as little as $20, while others (like Delaware or California) charge several hundred dollars due to franchise taxes.
Once you’ve filed, download or print your confirmation page or receipt. This serves as proof that your LLC is renewed and in good standing.
Pro tip: Set a recurring calendar reminder before your renewal deadline each year. It’s an easy way to stay compliant and avoid costly late fees or dissolution notices.
Each U.S. state sets its own renewal frequency, fee and deadline for LLCs. Not all are identical, so your renewal schedule will depend on your state of formation.
* Fee amounts exclude late penalties and may vary if the company has unusual attributes (e.g., lots of assets or extra filings).
You don’t have to be in the United States to renew your LLC — the entire process can be completed online from anywhere in the world. Most U.S. states now allow business owners to file their annual or biennial reports directly through the Secretary of State’s online portal, making it easy for non-resident founders to stay compliant.
For founders managing a U.S. LLC from abroad, StartFleet makes the process simple. We help non-U.S. entrepreneurs file renewals, maintain good standing, and obtain official Good Standing Certificates upon request — all handled remotely, so you can focus on growing your business instead of worrying about compliance
Renewing your LLC isn’t just another piece of paperwork — it’s what keeps your company legally alive, protected, and trusted. File on time, verify your information, and maintain good standing to avoid unnecessary penalties or disruptions.
For non-U.S. founders, StartFleet makes LLC renewals effortless. We help global entrepreneurs manage filings, and maintain good standing, so your business stays compliant no matter where you operate from.
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