Services Needed | Lovie — US Company Formation

Starting a business involves more than just a great idea; it requires a suite of essential services to establish, operate, and grow legally and efficiently. These services range from the initial legal formation of your entity, like an LLC or Corporation, to ongoing operational needs such as registered agent services, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and securing necessary licenses and permits. Understanding which services are critical at each stage can prevent costly mistakes and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. For entrepreneurs across all 50 US states, Lovie provides a comprehensive platform to navigate these requirements. Whether you're forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Delaware, a C-Corporation in California, or a Sole Proprietorship operating under a DBA (Doing Business As) name in Texas, knowing the fundamental services you'll need is the first step toward a successful launch. This guide outlines the key services essential for business formation and operation, helping you make informed decisions.

Legal Entity Formation Services

The cornerstone of any new business is its legal structure. This involves officially registering your business with the state government, which grants it legal personhood separate from its owners. The most popular choices for small businesses are Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and Corporations (S-Corp or C-Corp). Each has distinct implications for taxation, liability protection, and administrative requirements. Forming an LLC, for example, typically requires filing Articles of Organization

Choose between LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp based on tax and liability needs.
State filing fees for formation vary widely (e.g., CA $70, DE $90, WY $100).
Formation involves filing specific documents like Articles of Organization or Incorporation.
Lovie assists with forming LLCs, C-Corps, and S-Corps nationwide.

Registered Agent Services

Every state requires businesses to designate a Registered Agent. This individual or company serves as the official point of contact for the business to receive important legal documents, government correspondence, and service of process (lawsuit notifications) on behalf of the company. The Registered Agent must maintain a physical street address in the state of formation (not a P.O. Box) and be available during standard business hours. While you can act as your own Registered Agent if you meet

A Registered Agent is mandatory in all US states for legal entities.
They receive official legal documents and state correspondence.
Professional services cost $100-$300 annually per state.
Lovie provides Registered Agent services nationwide.

Employer Identification Number (EIN) Application Services

An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to business entities operating in the United States for identification purposes. It's essentially a Social Security number for your business. You'll need an EIN if your business plans to hire employees, operates as a corporation or partnership, files tax returns for excise, alcohol, tobacco, or firearms, or operates a Keogh plan.

An EIN is a federal tax ID required for most businesses.
Needed for hiring employees, corporate structures, and certain tax filings.
Applying directly with the IRS is free; Form SS-4 is used.
Lovie can help simplify and expedite the EIN application process.

Licenses and Permits Services

Beyond the initial formation, most businesses require specific licenses and permits to operate legally. These can be issued at the federal, state, and local levels, depending on your industry and location. For example, businesses involved in alcohol sales need federal TTB permits and state liquor licenses. Restaurants typically require health permits, food handler permits, and local business licenses. Construction companies might need contractor licenses, building permits, and environmental perm

Federal, state, and local licenses/permits are often required.
Requirements vary significantly by industry and location.
Failure to obtain necessary permits can lead to fines or closure.
Understanding and acquiring these is vital for legal operation.

Annual Report and Compliance Services

Maintaining compliance is an ongoing requirement for most business entities, particularly LLCs and Corporations. Many states require businesses to file an annual report (sometimes called a periodic report or statement of information) to keep their information on file with the state up-to-date. These reports typically include information such as the company's principal address, the names and addresses of its officers or managers, and the registered agent's details. The filing deadlines and fees f

Annual reports are required in many states to maintain good standing.
Fees and deadlines for reports vary by state.
Compliance includes corporate formalities like meetings and minutes.
Lovie helps manage ongoing compliance and filings.

Business Banking and Credit Services

Once your business is legally formed and has its EIN, setting up dedicated business banking and credit is a crucial next step. This involves opening a business bank account and potentially applying for a business credit card or line of credit. Separating business finances from personal finances is paramount for accurate bookkeeping, tax preparation, and maintaining the liability protection afforded by your business structure. Commingling funds can undermine the legal distinction between you and

Separate business and personal finances immediately after formation.
Open a dedicated business bank account using your EIN and formation documents.
Establish business credit to facilitate future financing and better terms.
Sound financial practices are key to long-term business health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most important services needed when starting an LLC in Texas?: For a Texas LLC, you'll need to file a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State (filing fee around $300). You'll also need a Registered Agent with a physical Texas address. Obtaining an EIN from the IRS is crucial for banking and hiring. Finally, research any specific state or local licenses/permits required for your industry.
Do I need a Registered Agent if I form my business in my home state?: Yes, even if you form your business in your home state and operate from there, you are legally required to appoint and maintain a Registered Agent with a physical address in that state.
How much does it cost to get an EIN?: Obtaining an EIN directly from the IRS is completely free. Be wary of third-party services that charge a fee for this process, as the application can be completed easily and at no cost on the IRS website.
What's the difference between a DBA and forming an LLC?: A DBA (Doing Business As) allows you to operate a business under a name different from your legal name (or your LLC's legal name), but it doesn't create a separate legal entity. An LLC (Limited Liability Company) is a legal entity that separates your personal assets from your business debts and liabilities, offering significant liability protection.
Are there ongoing services needed after forming a C-Corp?: Yes, C-Corps require ongoing compliance, including annual reports in most states, maintaining corporate minutes, holding regular board and shareholder meetings, and filing corporate income taxes (Form 1120). Compliance is critical to maintain corporate status and liability protection.

Start your formation with Lovie — $20/month, everything included.