The LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a business structure that was invented to offer an array of benefits normally provided by 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. An LLC can also have an unlimited amount of shareholders, like a corporation. However, the LLC is dissolved if one of those members dies or files for bankruptcy. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a primary goal of some business forms, but since the New York legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation, the modern LLC has become more and more popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

New York allows a company to incorporate using the business form it chooses. To begin as an LLC, a company simply files the necessary form with the Secretary of State. However, there may be an additional fee required for forming your LLC, determined by New York laws that govern the formation and actions of LLC's. 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 Albany County 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 New York 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 New York.