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?

The right business form is a decision left up to each business that openes in Massachusetts. An LLC is started simply by filing the appropriate 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. Applicable laws are a primary consideration in the decision of whether to organize as an LLC. The right business structure for your company may be difficult to find, but different structures can end up saving your company a lot of money.

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

Under specific conditions, a business in Reading may change its form. Eligibility for conversion to a LLC is determined by Massachusetts law.

How Can an Attorney Help?

A lawyer versed in Massachusetts business law will be able to advise you of the benefits and costs for forming and maintaining a LLC.