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, the LLC can also have an unlimited 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 primary 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?

Businesses in Maine can organize using whatever form they choose. The office of the Secretary of State is the organization that accepts filings by those who want to open LLC's. Fees are generally charged for opening LLC's, however, and Maine law determines the costs for creating LLC's. You should consider these laws when deciding whether to organize your business as an LLC. Finding the right business structure for your company may take some effort, but it will ultimately make your business more profitable.

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

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

How Can an Attorney Help?

The decision of whether to form or convert to a LLC is best considered with the advice of local Attorneys practicing business law in Maine.