How to Form an LLC as a Content Creator (2026 Guide)

An LLC (Limited Liability Company) creates a legal wall between your personal assets and your business. If someone sues your channel over a product review, a defamation claim, or a sponsorship dispute, they can only go after business assets — not your personal bank account, car, or home.

Beyond liability protection, an LLC gives you:

- Tax flexibility — Choose to be taxed as a sole proprietor, partnership, or S-Corp depending on your income level
- Professional credibility — Brands and agencies prefer working with registered businesses
- Separate finances — A business bank account and EIN make bookkeeping and tax filing dramatically easier
- Pass-through taxation — LLC profits pass directly to your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation

You do NOT need to wait until you are earning six figures. Most creators benefit from an LLC once they are consistently earning $1,000+/month from content creation.

Step 1: Choose your state. You can form an LLC in any state. Most creators should file in their home state. Wyoming and Delaware are popular for privacy and low fees, but filing out-of-state means you still need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state — which doubles the cost and paperwork.

Step 2: Choose a name. Your LLC name must be unique in your state. Most states let you search their business name database online. You can use your channel name, your real name, or a brand name. The name must include 'LLC' or 'Limited Liability Company.'

Step 3: File Articles of Organization. This is the official formation document filed with your state's Secretary of State. Filing fees range from $50 (Kentucky, Arkansas) to $500 (Massachusetts). Most states charge $50-$200.

Step 4: Get an EIN. Apply for a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS at irs.gov. This is your business's Social Security number. You need it to open a business bank account and file taxes. The online application takes 5 minutes.

Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement. Even single-member LLCs should have one. This document outlines ownership, profit distribution, and management structure. It strengthens your liability protection.

Step 6: Open a business bank account. Bring your Articles of Organization, EIN letter, and Operating Agreement to any bank. Keep all business income and expenses in this account.

Formation costs by state (2026):
- California: $70 filing fee + $800/year franchise tax (minimum, even if you earn $0)
- Texas: $300 filing fee, no annual franchise tax for most small LLCs
- Florida: $125 filing fee + $138.75/year annual report
- New York: $200 filing fee + publication requirement ($1,000-$2,000 in some counties)
- Wyoming: $100 filing fee + $60/year annual report

Ongoing requirements:
- Annual report or statement of information (most states, $0-$200/year)
- Franchise tax if applicable (California, Delaware, etc.)
- Maintaining a registered agent (can be yourself or a service at $50-$150/year)
- Keeping business and personal finances separate

Do NOT use an LLC formation service that charges $300+ for filing. The actual filing is simple. Services like the IRS EIN application are free. If you want help, Northwest Registered Agent or ZenBusiness charge $39-$99 plus state fees.

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your specific situation.