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. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a primary goal of some business forms, but since the South Dakota 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 South Dakota 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. However, some charge additional fees for the formation of LLC?s, and in South Dakota there are specific laws that govern the actions of 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?

Businesses in Vermillion may change their forms in certain circumstances. Whether a business may convert to a LLC or not is determined by South Dakota 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 Dakota can give you valuable advice.