On this page · 10 sections
- What is a Writer LLC Operating Agreement?
- Why Delaware for Your Writer LLC?
- Essential Clauses for Your Writer Operating Agreement
- Ownership and Management Structure
- Financial Provisions and Profit Distribution
- Operational Procedures and Decision-Making
- Defining Member Responsibilities and Duties
- Dissolution and Winding Up Procedures
- Amending Your Operating Agreement
- LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship for Writers
What Exactly is a Writer LLC Operating Agreement?
An operating agreement for a Writer LLC is a foundational internal document that lays out the rules and operating procedures for your limited liability company. Think of it as the internal rulebook or constitution for your business. While Delaware doesn't legally require LLCs to have one on file with the state (as per Delaware General Corporation Law, Title 8, Section 18-101), it's an absolutely critical document for any writer operating as an LLC. It clarifies ownership stakes, outlines member responsibilities, details how profits and losses will be distributed, and establishes procedures for management and operations. For a writer, this means clearly defining how creative projects are managed, how intellectual property rights are handled, and how client contracts are executed. Without this agreement, your LLC would default to the state's standard operating rules, which might not align with your specific business needs or vision. It's the primary tool for preventing disputes among members (if you have partners) and for ensuring the smooth, professional operation of your writing business. It also provides a clear framework for adding or removing members, handling member buyouts, and managing the overall lifecycle of your LLC. This document is not typically filed with the state but kept internally by the LLC members. It’s a private contract that governs your business’s internal affairs and reinforces the limited liability protection that the LLC structure provides. For writers, whose work often involves unique intellectual property and client-specific deliverables, a well-drafted operating agreement is indispensable for clarity and protection. It ensures that everyone involved understands their roles, rights, and obligations, thereby minimizing potential misunderstandings and conflicts. It's the bedrock of a well-governed and resilient writing enterprise. This guide will walk you through the essential components, ensuring your Delaware Writer LLC is set up for success in 2026 and beyond. A clear operating agreement is a proactive step toward long-term business health and stability, offering peace of mind as your writing career flourishes.
Why Choose Delaware for Your Writer LLC?
Delaware is a popular choice for business formation, and for good reason, even for writers. The state boasts a highly developed and specialized Court of Chancery, which has decades of experience adjudicating business disputes. This predictability and expertise in corporate law offer a significant advantage. The state's corporate laws are modern and flexible, designed to accommodate a wide range of business structures and needs, which is beneficial for the unique demands of a writing business. Furthermore, Delaware's business-friendly legal environment is well-established, providing a stable and reliable framework for your LLC. For writers, this means that the legal structure governing your LLC is robust and well-understood, offering strong asset protection. Delaware also offers significant privacy for LLC members; the state does not require you to list the names or addresses of members or managers in your formation documents (Certificate of Formation). This is a key consideration for many entrepreneurs who value discretion. While there are state filing fees and annual requirements, such as the Delaware Franchise Tax (which is $300 annually for LLCs, due by June 1st each year), the overall benefits often outweigh these costs. The state’s established legal precedent and sophisticated business infrastructure create a reliable environment. Forming your Writer LLC in Delaware means you are aligning with a jurisdiction known for its corporate governance leadership. This can lend credibility to your business, especially if you plan to seek investment or operate on a larger scale in the future. The state's efficient business filing process, often facilitated by registered agents and online services, also makes formation straightforward. For writers, this means focusing more on crafting compelling content and less on administrative hurdles. The legal framework supports flexibility, allowing your writing business to adapt and grow without being bogged down by rigid regulations. Choosing Delaware positions your writing venture within a globally recognized hub for corporate activity, providing a solid foundation for long-term success and legal security. It’s a strategic decision that underscores a commitment to professional operation and robust protection.
Essential Clauses for Your Writer Operating Agreement
A comprehensive operating agreement for your Writer LLC should address several key areas specific to your profession. At its core, it must clearly define the purpose of the LLC. For a writer, this purpose might be broadly stated as 'to engage in the business of writing, editing, content creation, and related services,' or it could be more specific, focusing on niche areas like technical writing, grant writing, or fiction authorship. Following the purpose clause, the agreement must detail the ownership structure. This includes the percentage of ownership each member holds and any conditions attached to that ownership. For solo writers, this section will be simpler, affirming single ownership. If you have partners, it’s crucial to outline initial contributions (capital, intellectual property, client lists) and how ownership percentages were determined. A critical section for writers involves the management of intellectual property (IP). This clause should specify who owns the copyright to works created by the LLC, how licensing agreements will be handled, and what happens to IP rights upon a member’s departure. It’s vital to distinguish between work-for-hire for clients and original content created by the LLC for its own portfolio or future sale. Another vital area is the handling of client contracts and deliverables. The agreement should outline the process for entering into client agreements, including approval processes, payment terms, and dispute resolution mechanisms related to client work. This protects both the LLC and its clients. Financial provisions, which we’ll cover more deeply later, are also essential. This includes how initial capital will be funded, how ongoing expenses will be covered, and the mechanisms for distributing profits and allocating losses. For writers, this might involve provisions for managing advances, royalties, or project-based payments. Operational procedures are equally important, detailing how day-to-day operations will be managed, including decision-making processes, especially for significant business decisions. Finally, provisions regarding member withdrawal, expulsion, death, or disability, and the subsequent buyout or transfer of ownership interests, are crucial for business continuity. This prevents potential paralysis if a key member is no longer able to participate. A well-drafted agreement anticipates these scenarios, providing a clear path forward and safeguarding the business’s future. By meticulously detailing these clauses, your Writer LLC’s operating agreement becomes a powerful tool for clarity, protection, and operational efficiency, tailored specifically to the unique needs of a writing business operating in Delaware.
Defining Your Writer LLC's Ownership and Management
The ownership and management structure is a cornerstone of your Writer LLC's operating agreement. It dictates who owns the business and who has the authority to make decisions. For a single-member LLC (SMLLC), this section is relatively straightforward. It will state that you are the sole owner, holding 100% of the membership interest. However, even in an SMLLC, it's wise to document this clearly to reinforce the separation between personal and business assets, which is the essence of the LLC's liability protection. If your Writer LLC has multiple members, this section becomes more complex and critically important. You must clearly define each member's ownership percentage. This is often based on initial capital contributions, but it could also reflect agreed-upon valuations of skills, intellectual property, or client relationships brought into the business. For instance, one writer might contribute $5,000 in startup capital, while another contributes a portfolio of established clients and a strong industry reputation. The operating agreement should detail how these contributions translate into ownership percentages (e.g., 50/50, 60/40). Beyond ownership, you need to define the management structure. Delaware LLCs can be member-managed or manager-managed. In a member-managed LLC, all members have the authority to act on behalf of the LLC, proportional to their ownership interest unless otherwise specified. This is common for smaller, closely-held businesses where all members are actively involved. In a manager-managed LLC, the members appoint one or more managers (who can be members or non-members) to run the daily operations. The operating agreement must clearly list who the initial managers are and outline their specific powers and responsibilities. It should also detail how managers are appointed, removed, and how their compensation is determined. For writers, especially those collaborating on projects, clarity here is paramount. Who has the final say on editorial direction? Who is authorized to sign client contracts? Who handles financial decisions? The agreement should specify thresholds for decisions requiring full member approval versus those that managers or individual members can make unilaterally. This prevents deadlock and ensures efficient operation. Consider adding provisions for voting rights – are decisions based on majority ownership, or does each member get one vote on certain matters? Documenting these details prevents ambiguity and potential disputes down the line, ensuring your writing business operates cohesantly and effectively, regardless of its size or the number of members involved. This clarity protects the business's operational integrity and strengthens the foundation for future growth.
Financial Provisions: Managing Your Writer LLC's Finances
The financial provisions within your Writer LLC operating agreement are crucial for maintaining clarity and preventing disputes regarding money matters. This section details how the LLC will be funded, how its finances will be managed, and how profits and losses will be distributed among members. Start by outlining the initial capital contributions. This should specify the amount of money, property, or services each member agrees to contribute to the LLC upon formation. For writers, these contributions might include cash for startup costs (like software, office equipment, website development), but could also involve the transfer of valuable assets like existing client contracts, published works, or proprietary writing templates. The agreement should clearly state the agreed-upon value of non-cash contributions. Next, address ongoing capital needs. How will the LLC fund its operations and future growth? Will members be expected to make additional contributions if needed? If so, what are the procedures, and are these contributions mandatory or voluntary? The agreement should also detail how the LLC will maintain its finances separately from its members' personal finances. This is key to preserving the limited liability shield. It should mandate the establishment of a dedicated business bank account and outline procedures for bookkeeping, accounting, and financial record-keeping. For writers, this means tracking income from various sources (royalties, project fees, retainers) and expenses (software subscriptions, professional development, office supplies, travel). The most significant part of the financial provisions is the distribution of profits and losses. The operating agreement must clearly state how profits will be allocated and distributed to members, and how losses will be borne. While these are often distributed according to ownership percentages, you can agree on different arrangements. For example, a member who contributes more in terms of active management might receive a larger share of profits, even if their ownership percentage is lower. Conversely, losses are typically allocated based on ownership percentages, meaning members absorb losses in proportion to their stake in the company. It's also important to define what constitutes a 'distribution.' Will profits be distributed automatically upon earning, or will distributions be made on a set schedule (e.g., quarterly, annually)? Will distributions require a vote by the members? Specifying these details ensures transparency and predictability in financial dealings. For writers, especially those working on projects with variable income streams or royalty-based earnings, a clear and flexible financial structure is vital. This section provides the framework for sound financial management, protecting the business's fiscal health and ensuring fair treatment for all members. Proper financial planning and clear documentation prevent misunderstandings and support the long-term viability of your writing enterprise.
Streamlining Operations: Decision-Making and Day-to-Day Management
The operational procedures section of your Writer LLC's operating agreement is where you define the day-to-day mechanics of your business. It clarifies how decisions are made, how meetings are conducted, and how the business will function on a regular basis. This is particularly important for writers, whose work involves creative processes, client interactions, and project management. First, detail the decision-making process. For a member-managed LLC, outline how decisions will be made. Will it be by majority vote based on ownership percentage? Or will certain decisions require a unanimous vote? For a manager-managed LLC, specify the scope of the manager's authority. What types of decisions can the manager make independently, and which require member approval? Define thresholds for significant decisions, such as entering into major contracts, taking on significant debt, selling substantial assets, or admitting new members. For writers, this could include decisions about adopting new software, investing in professional development courses, or changing the LLC’s service offerings. Clearly defining these boundaries prevents confusion and ensures that the business operates efficiently and in line with the members' collective vision. Next, address how meetings will be conducted. Will there be regular member or manager meetings? How will they be called, and what constitutes a quorum? Specify the notice requirements for meetings and the methods for conducting them (in-person, virtual, or by written consent). Documenting meeting procedures ensures that decisions are made formally and transparently. For writers who might be geographically dispersed or working with clients across different time zones, specifying virtual meeting protocols is essential. The agreement should also cover the LLC’s operating year and accounting methods. Will the LLC operate on a calendar year or a fiscal year? What accounting principles will be followed (e.g., cash or accrual basis)? This ensures consistent financial reporting. Consider including provisions for record-keeping. What types of records must the LLC maintain (e.g., financial statements, client contracts, correspondence, IP documentation)? Where will these records be kept, and who will have access to them? For a writing business, maintaining organized records of client projects, invoices, payments, and intellectual property is crucial for both operational efficiency and potential legal or tax audits. Furthermore, the agreement can outline procedures for handling specific operational aspects relevant to writers, such as project management workflows, client onboarding processes, or quality control standards for written content. By thoroughly documenting these operational procedures, you create a clear roadmap for running your Writer LLC. This structure ensures consistency, accountability, and efficiency, allowing you and your team to focus on producing high-quality work and serving your clients effectively. It transforms the abstract idea of an LLC into a functional, well-oiled business entity, prepared for the dynamic demands of the writing profession.
Defining Member Responsibilities and Duties
Clearly outlining the responsibilities and duties of each member is a vital component of your Writer LLC operating agreement. This section prevents ambiguity about who is responsible for what, ensuring that all necessary tasks are covered and that no one is overburdened or neglected. It establishes a framework for accountability and defines the expected contributions of each individual involved in the business. For a single-member LLC, this section might focus on the owner's primary responsibilities, such as business development, client management, content creation, financial oversight, and administrative tasks. It serves as a personal commitment to the operational needs of the business. However, it's also an opportunity to define specific roles if the sole owner intends to delegate or outsource certain functions in the future. For multi-member LLCs, this section is even more critical. Each member's role should be clearly defined based on their skills, experience, and the agreed-upon management structure. Responsibilities could include: Business Development & Marketing: Identifying new clients, managing social media presence, networking, and promoting the LLC’s services. Client Management & Communication: Serving as the primary point of contact for clients, managing project timelines, and ensuring client satisfaction. Content Creation & Editing: Producing written materials, editing and proofreading content, and ensuring adherence to style guides and quality standards. Financial Management: Overseeing bookkeeping, invoicing, payment processing, tax preparation, and financial reporting. Administrative Tasks: Managing correspondence, scheduling, maintaining records, and handling general office duties. Legal & Compliance: Ensuring the LLC adheres to all legal and regulatory requirements, including managing contracts and intellectual property rights. The operating agreement should specify the expected level of commitment for each member. Are members expected to work full-time, part-time, or on a project basis? What are the expectations regarding availability and responsiveness? It’s also important to define the duty of loyalty and the duty of care. The duty of loyalty generally requires members to act in the best interests of the LLC and to avoid conflicts of interest. The duty of care requires members to act with the prudence and diligence that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in similar circumstances. For writers, this means avoiding situations where personal interests conflict with the LLC's interests (e.g., taking on a competing client without disclosure) and performing their duties with reasonable care and skill. This section can also address how performance will be evaluated and what happens if a member fails to fulfill their responsibilities. This could involve a process for addressing underperformance, requiring improvement, or, in severe cases, initiating procedures for removing the member or adjusting ownership interests. By clearly delineating roles and responsibilities, you foster a collaborative environment, ensure operational continuity, and build a strong foundation of accountability within your Writer LLC. This clarity empowers each member to contribute effectively towards the shared goals of the business.
Dissolution and Winding Up Your Writer LLC
Even successful businesses eventually face the end of their operational life, whether through planned dissolution, merger, or unforeseen circumstances. Your Writer LLC operating agreement must include clear procedures for dissolution and winding up the business. This section provides a roadmap for systematically closing down the LLC’s operations, settling its affairs, and distributing any remaining assets. First, define the events that can trigger dissolution. Common triggers include the expiration of a specified term (if the LLC was formed for a limited duration), the occurrence of a specific event outlined in the agreement, a vote by the members to dissolve, or judicial decree. For a writing business, dissolution might occur if the primary members decide to retire, pursue different ventures, or if the business model becomes unsustainable. The agreement should specify the required voting threshold for members to agree to dissolve the LLC voluntarily. Next, outline the winding-up process. This is the formal procedure for terminating the LLC’s legal existence. It typically involves several steps: 1. Ceasing normal business operations: The LLC will stop conducting its usual activities, such as taking on new clients or producing new content, except as necessary to wind up affairs. 2. Notifying creditors: The LLC must notify known creditors of the dissolution and provide a process for them to submit claims. Public notice may also be required depending on state law. 3. Liquidating assets: All business assets, including equipment, intellectual property, and outstanding receivables, will be sold or otherwise converted into cash. For writers, this might involve selling off software licenses, office furniture, or potentially assigning rights to ongoing projects or published works, subject to contractual obligations. 4. Settling liabilities: The LLC's debts and obligations will be paid off using the liquidated assets. This includes taxes, supplier bills, loans, and any other outstanding debts. Priority is typically given to secured creditors, then general creditors, and finally, members. 5. Distributing remaining assets: After all debts and liabilities have been settled, any remaining assets (cash) will be distributed to the members according to their ownership percentages or as otherwise specified in the operating agreement. This is the final step in the financial closure of the LLC. Finally, the agreement should detail the filing requirements for dissolving the LLC with the State of Delaware. This usually involves filing a Certificate of Cancellation with the Delaware Division of Corporations. The operating agreement can specify who is responsible for executing and filing this document. Having a clear dissolution clause protects members from ongoing liability after the business has ceased operations and ensures an orderly and legally compliant conclusion. It provides a necessary framework for closure, offering finality and preventing potential future complications. This proactive planning is essential for responsible business stewardship, even when contemplating the end of the LLC's lifecycle.
Amending Your Operating Agreement Over Time
Your Writer LLC operating agreement is not a static document; it’s designed to evolve with your business. As your writing career grows, your business structure, goals, or membership may change, necessitating updates to your operating agreement. This section outlines the process for making amendments and ensures that your governing document remains relevant and accurate. The core principle is that amendments should be made formally and deliberately to maintain the integrity of the agreement. First, establish the procedure for proposing amendments. Any member should generally have the right to propose a change to the operating agreement. The proposal should clearly state the intended modification and the rationale behind it. Next, define the voting requirements for approving amendments. Typically, amendments require a higher threshold than ordinary business decisions. Common requirements include a majority vote of the members, a supermajority (e.g., 75% or 90%), or even unanimous consent, especially for significant changes that affect fundamental aspects of the LLC, such as ownership percentages or profit distribution. The operating agreement should specify which type of vote is required for different categories of amendments. For instance, changing the allocation of profits might require unanimous consent, while updating contact information might only need a majority vote. Consider the specific needs of your writing business when setting these thresholds. If you anticipate significant growth or potential changes in partnerships, a more flexible amendment process might be beneficial, but without sacrificing the protection of minority members. The agreement should also detail how approved amendments will be documented and integrated into the operating agreement. This usually involves creating a written amendment document that references the original operating agreement and clearly states the changes being made. This amendment document should be signed and dated by all members who voted in favor of the change, or by all members if unanimous consent is required. Once executed, the amendment becomes part of the official operating agreement. It's crucial to keep the original operating agreement and all subsequent amendments together in a secure place, such as the LLC’s official records binder. Furthermore, the agreement can address when amendments become effective. Are they effective immediately upon signing, or on a specified future date? Some amendments might also require filings with the State of Delaware, particularly if they involve changes to the LLC’s management structure or registered agent information, although most internal operating agreement changes do not necessitate state filings. Regularly reviewing your operating agreement is a best practice. Consider scheduling an annual review, or reviewing it whenever significant business events occur, such as admitting a new member, a member departing, a major shift in business strategy, or a change in applicable laws. This proactive approach ensures your operating agreement continues to accurately reflect the current state of your Writer LLC and its operations, safeguarding your business and reinforcing the clarity established at its formation. Keeping the agreement current prevents misunderstandings and ensures the LLC operates smoothly according to the members' current understanding and intentions.
LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship for Writers
Many writers start their careers as sole proprietors, operating under their own name without formal business registration. While simple, this structure offers limited protection. Understanding the differences between a sole proprietorship and a Writer LLC is crucial when deciding the best structure for your business, especially when considering the benefits of an operating agreement. As a sole proprietor, you and your business are legally the same entity. This means your personal assets – such as your home, car, and savings accounts – are at risk if your business incurs debts or faces lawsuits. For example, if a client sues your writing business for alleged damages, your personal assets could be targeted to satisfy a judgment. Income generated by the business is reported directly on your personal tax return (Schedule C of Form 1040), simplifying tax filing but offering no liability protection. In contrast, forming a Writer LLC in Delaware creates a distinct legal entity separate from you, the owner. This separation is the primary advantage: it shields your personal assets from business debts and liabilities. If the LLC faces financial trouble or legal action, typically only the assets owned by the LLC itself are at risk. This limited liability protection is a significant reason why writers choose to form an LLC, even if they are the sole member. Furthermore, an LLC offers more credibility and professionalism. Operating under an LLC structure can signal a more established and serious business to potential clients, partners, and financial institutions. While a sole proprietorship uses your Social Security Number (SSN) for tax purposes, an LLC can obtain its own Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which is often required for opening business bank accounts and can add another layer of separation. Tax-wise, LLCs offer flexibility. A single-member LLC is typically taxed like a sole proprietorship (disregarded entity), meaning profits and losses pass through to your personal return. However, an LLC can elect to be taxed as an S-corp or C-corp, which may offer tax advantages depending on your income level and business structure. The key differentiator remains liability protection. The operating agreement, which is unique to LLCs, further solidifies this protection by defining internal operating rules and reinforcing the separation of business and personal affairs. While a sole proprietorship is easier to start and requires no formal operating agreement, the risks associated with unlimited personal liability often make it less suitable for writers who want to protect their personal assets and build a scalable, professional business. The LLC structure, supported by a well-drafted operating agreement, provides a robust legal and financial framework essential for long-term success and security in the writing profession.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a lawyer to draft my Writer LLC operating agreement in Delaware?
While it's not legally required to have a lawyer draft your Delaware Writer LLC operating agreement, it's highly recommended, especially if your business has multiple members or complex arrangements. A lawyer can ensure the agreement is comprehensive, legally sound, and tailored to your specific needs, protecting your interests effectively. However, services like Lovie can provide templates and guidance to help you draft a solid agreement, which you can then have reviewed by legal counsel if desired. Lovie assists with formation filings and provides resources, but does not offer legal advice or create government documents. For complex situations, consulting with an attorney specializing in business law is always a prudent step to ensure full compliance and protection.
How much does it cost to form a Writer LLC in Delaware?
Forming a Writer LLC in Delaware involves several costs. The primary state filing fee is $90 for the Certificate of Formation. You'll also need a Registered Agent, which typically costs between $50 and $300 annually. Delaware requires an annual Franchise Tax of $300 for all LLCs, due by June 1st each year. If you use a formation service like Lovie, there might be an additional fee for their assistance, which covers the filing, registered agent service, and potentially other features like EIN registration. These services streamline the process, ensuring accuracy and timely submission. While the state fees are fixed, the total cost can vary depending on the services you choose and any optional add-ons. Lovie offers a comprehensive $29/month plan that includes formation filing, registered agent, EIN registration, and compliance monitoring, making it a cost-effective solution for writers.
What is the difference between a Certificate of Formation and an Operating Agreement for a Delaware LLC?
The Certificate of Formation (or Articles of Organization) is a document filed with the Delaware Division of Corporations to legally create your LLC. It's a public record that includes basic information like the LLC's name and registered agent. The Operating Agreement, on the other hand, is an internal, private document that governs how your LLC is run. It details ownership, management, operational procedures, and member rights and responsibilities. While the Certificate of Formation officially establishes your LLC's existence, the Operating Agreement provides the internal framework for its operation and management, crucial for clarity and dispute prevention among members. Delaware does not require the Operating Agreement to be filed with the state.
Can I operate my writing business as a sole proprietor instead of an LLC in Delaware?
Yes, you can operate your writing business as a sole proprietor in Delaware. This is the simplest business structure, requiring no formal state filing to establish. You conduct business under your own name or a fictitious name (DBA). However, the critical difference is liability protection. As a sole proprietor, there is no legal distinction between you and your business. This means your personal assets—like your home, car, and savings—are at risk if your business is sued or incurs debts. An LLC, even a single-member LLC, creates a separate legal entity, shielding your personal assets from business liabilities. While a sole proprietorship is easier to start, an LLC offers significant legal and financial protection, which is often essential for writers looking to safeguard their personal wealth and professional reputation.
How often should I update my Writer LLC operating agreement?
You should update your Writer LLC operating agreement whenever there are significant changes to your business structure, ownership, or operational procedures. A good rule of thumb is to review it annually or at least every few years to ensure it remains current. Key triggers for an update include: admitting new members, a member leaving the LLC, changes in ownership percentages, significant shifts in business strategy or services offered, major capital infusions, or changes in management roles. Even if no major events occur, it's wise to review the agreement periodically to ensure it still aligns with your business goals and complies with any updated Delaware laws. Formalizing amendments in writing, signed by all members, is essential to keep the agreement legally sound and effective.
What happens to my intellectual property if I dissolve my Writer LLC?
When your Writer LLC dissolves, its assets, including intellectual property (IP), must be liquidated to pay off debts and liabilities. If there are remaining assets after all debts are settled, they are distributed to the members according to their ownership percentages outlined in the operating agreement. The handling of specific IP, like copyrights for published works or client contracts, will depend on the terms defined in your operating agreement and any client agreements. The operating agreement should ideally specify how IP rights are managed during dissolution. If the IP is sold as part of the liquidation process, the proceeds are distributed. If the LLC's IP has no monetary value or cannot be sold, it may effectively cease to exist as a business asset. It's crucial that your operating agreement addresses IP ownership and transfer clearly, both during operation and in the event of dissolution, to avoid disputes.
Lovie is not a government agency, law firm, or professional advisory organization. Lovie is a private business-formation service that prepares and submits filings to the appropriate state agencies on your behalf — we do not issue government documents, and state approval times are not controlled by Lovie. Information on this page is general and not legal, tax, or financial advice.