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 frequently charged for opening LLC's, however, and Maine law determines the costs for creating LLC's. When deciding whether to form a LLC, you should consider which laws would apply to your company. Although it might 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?

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

How Can an Attorney Help?

Whether it would be beneficial for your business to form or convert to a LLC is a difficult decision. An attorney practicing business law in Maine can give you valuable advice.