The legal business form of the LLC, or Limited Liability Company, offers the advantages of several other traditional business forms. An LLC has the same benefit of limited liability that a corporation does, but without being taxed as its own entity. Instead, it's taxed more similarly to a sole proprietorship or partnership. Like a corporation, a LLC can have unlimited shareholders, called members. But a main difference is if one of these shareholders dies or files for bankruptcy, the LLC is dissolved and will stop operations unless the remaining members form a new LLC. Business forms with limited liability have existed for hundreds of years, but the modern LLC became more popular in Massachusetts since the legislature enacted laws authorizing its creation.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

A business in Massachusetts can be organized using the form that it chooses. If the founders want to organize as an LLC, all that is necessary is filing the appropriate form with the Secretary of State. There can be a fee required for opening your LLC, however. Applicable Massachusetts laws govern the formation of LLC's and their actions. You should consider these laws when deciding whether to organize your business as an LLC. Finding the right business structure for your company might take some effort, but it will ultimately make your business more profitable.

Can I Change the Form of My Business to an LLC?

Businesses in Ashland may change their forms in particular circumstances. Whether a business may convert to a LLC or not is determined by Massachusetts law.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Attorneys experienced in Massachusetts business law can give you valuable input on whether your business would be more profitable as a LLC.