The LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a business structure that was invented to offer an array of benefits typically provided by other traditional business forms. Limited liability is an advantage that the LLC shares with the corporation, but instead of being taxed as its own entity, it is treated more like a sole proprietorship or partnership for tax purposes. 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. Many business forms have historically been aimed at the goal of limited liability, but the LLC is the most modern of these forms, having become popular since the enactment of laws in New York that authorized its formation.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

A business in New York can be organized using the form that it chooses. If the founders want to organize as an LLC, all that is required is filing the appropriate 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. These laws should certainly help you decide whether to organize as an LLC. The business structure that is appropriate for your business may take some effort to find, but finding the right business form can reward you with increased profitability.

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

Businesses in Ridge may change their forms in certain circumstances. Whether a business may convert to a LLC or not is determined by New York law.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Attorneys experienced in New York business law can give you valuable input on whether your business would be more profitable as a LLC.