The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, is a business structure that combines the benefits of many traditional business forms. A LLC has the advantages of a corporation's limited liability, but avoids double taxation like a partnership or sole proprietorship. LLC's, like corporations, may also have as many shareholders, or members, as desired. The LLC, however, is dissolved if one of those members files for bankruptcy or dies. For hundreds of years, limited liability has been a main goal of some business forms, but since the Washington legislature enacted laws authorizing its formation, the modern LLC has become more and more popular.

Can My Business Be Formed as an LLC?

Washington allows a company to incorporate using the business form it chooses. To start as an LLC, a company just files the necessary form with the Secretary of State. However, there can be an additional fee required for forming your LLC, determined by Washington laws that govern the formation and actions of LLC's. In deciding whether you should organize as an LLC, you should consider carefully the applicable laws. Finding the right business structure for your company may lead to increased profits, but the process may take some time.

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

Businesses in Tacoma might sometimes change form. A company is eligible for conversion to an LLC if its situation falls under circumstances that are detailed by Washington law.

How Can an Attorney Help?

The decision of whether to form or convert to a LLC is best considered with the advice of local Lawyers practicing business law in Washington.