The legal business form of the LLC, or Limited Liability Company, offers the benefits of several other traditional business forms. An LLC has the same advantage 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 key 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. Limited liability has historically been a primary goal of many business forms, but since the legislature authorized it in Massachusetts, the modern LLC has become increasingly popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

In Massachusetts, a business can be formed using the form that it chooses. Opening an LLC simply requires that the business founders file a form with the Secretary of State. There may be a fee required for opening your LLC, however. Applicable Massachusetts laws govern the formation of LLC's and their actions. When deciding whether to form a LLC, you should consider which laws would apply to your company. Although it may take some time to find, choosing the right business structure for your company will lead to increased profitability.

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

A business in Hopkinton may change its form under specific conditions. Whether or not a business is eligible for conversion to a LLC is a determination made by applicable Massachusetts laws.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Attorneys practicing business law in Massachusetts can advise you on whether it would be favorable for your business to form or convert to a LLC.