The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, is a legal business structure that seeks to combine benefits from across several other traditional business forms. Like a sole proprietorship or partnership, an LLC is not taxed as its own entity. However, it still has the advantage of limited liability, the same as a corporation. 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. Business forms with limited liability have existed for hundreds of years, but the modern LLC became more popular in South Carolina since the legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

Businesses in South Carolina 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 often charged for opening LLC's, however, and South Carolina 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 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?

Under certain conditions, a business in Port Royal may change its form. Eligibility for conversion to a LLC is determined by South Carolina law.

How Can an Attorney Help?

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