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?

The right business form is a decision left up to each business that openes in South Carolina. An LLC is started simply by filing the appropriate form with the Secretary of State. Fees are generally charged for opening LLC's, however, and South Carolina 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 Sumter may change its form under particular conditions. Whether or not a business is eligible for conversion to a LLC is a determination made by applicable South Carolina 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 South Carolina.