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, the LLC can also have an endless amount of shareholders, called members. Unlike a corporation however, if a member dies, files for bankruptcy, or otherwise leaves the LLC, the company is dissolved. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a main goal of some business forms, but since the Maine legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation, the modern LLC has become more and more popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

Maine allows a company to incorporate using the business form it chooses. To start as an LLC, a company just files the necessary form with the Secretary of State. Fees are regularly charged for opening LLC's, however, and Maine law determines the costs for creating LLC's. In deciding whether you should organize as an LLC, you should consider carefully the applicable laws. Finding the right business structure for your company may lead to increased profits, but the process may take some time.

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

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

How Can an Attorney Help?

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