Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is an exciting step in entrepreneurship. However, what happens if you start an LLC but then don’t actually use it for anything? You’re not alone; many entrepreneurs find themselves in a similar situation. In this article, we will delve into the consequences and steps you should consider taking if you started an LLC but never did anything with it.
Understanding Your Situation
When you start an LLC, even if you don’t actively engage in business, there are still legal and financial obligations that you must be aware of. Here’s a breakdown of some of the responsibilities and considerations:
Ongoing Fees
Even if your LLC is inactive, some states require annual fees or franchise taxes. If you don’t pay these fees, your LLC could be hit with penalties or even be involuntarily dissolved.
Annual Reports
Many states require LLCs to file annual reports. These reports typically update the state on your LLC’s information, such as members and address. Failure to file these reports can also lead to penalties or dissolution.
Potential Liability
Even if your LLC isn’t operational, it’s still a legal entity. This means it could potentially incur liabilities, for instance, if someone were to sue it for any reason.
What Should You Do?
If you have an LLC and haven’t done anything with it, here are some steps you should consider taking:
Step 1: Assess Your Future Plans
Determine whether you have any future plans for the LLC. Maybe you started it with an idea in mind that you still hope to pursue, or maybe your plans have changed entirely. This assessment will help you decide whether to keep or dissolve the LLC.
Step 2: Stay Compliant
If you decide to keep the LLC, ensure that you are meeting all state requirements, such as paying any annual fees and filing reports. This will keep the LLC in good standing should you decide to use it in the future.
Step 3: Consult a Professional
It’s always a good idea to consult with an accountant or attorney to understand the specific obligations associated with an inactive LLC in your state. They can also guide you on the best steps to take based on your unique situation.
Step 4: Dissolve the LLC if Necessary
If you have no future plans for the LLC, it might be wise to formally dissolve it. This typically involves filing Articles of Dissolution or a similar document with the state. By officially closing the LLC, you can avoid any ongoing fees and reporting requirements.
Step 5: Keep Records
Whether you keep or dissolve the LLC, make sure to keep all records associated with it for a few years. This includes formation documents, dissolution documents if applicable, and any financial records.
Conclusion
Starting an LLC is a big step, and it’s important to manage it responsibly, even if you haven’t actively used it for business. By evaluating your future plans, staying compliant with state regulations, and consulting with professionals, you can make sure that your inactive LLC doesn’t become a liability or ongoing expense that you didn’t anticipate.
