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Launch Your Tennessee LLC in the Volunteer State

Tennessee combines no state income tax with a thriving business environment. With Nashville's entertainment industry, Memphis's logistics hub, and growing healthcare sectors, Tennessee offers diverse opportunities at competitive costs. Key advantages include No state income tax, Music and entertainment capital, Major logistics hub, and Low business costs.

Compare Top 5 LLC Formation Services

Feature
ZenBusiness
Best Overall Value
Bizee
Fastest Formation
Inc Authority
Free Formation
LegalZoom
Best for Legal Support
Rocket Lawyer
Legal Documents
Price $0
+ state fees
$0
+ state fees
$0
+ state fees
$0
+ state fees
$99.99
+ state fees
EIN Service $99$70$70$159$99
Operating Agreement $99$99$50$99✓ Free
Support Phone, Chat, EmailLimitedPhone, ChatPhone, ChatPhone, Chat
Best For Best Overall ValueFastest FormationFree FormationBest for Legal SupportLegal Documents
Get Started Get Started →Get Started →Get Started →Get Started →Get Started →

Compare Tennessee with Neighboring States

Current State

Tennessee

Filing Fee:$300
Annual Fee:$300
Franchise Tax:$300
Total 1st Year:$900

Mississippi

↓$850
Filing Fee:$50
Total:$50
View Mississippi →

Missouri

↓$850
Filing Fee:$50
Total:$50
View Missouri →

Kentucky

↓$845
Filing Fee:$40
Annual Fee:$15
Total:$55
View Kentucky →

💡 Pro Tip: While neighboring states may have different fees, consider other factors like business environment, tax policies, and where you'll actually operate when choosing your LLC formation state.

Tennessee LLC Formation Costs and Investment

Tennessee LLC formation costs:

  • State filing fee: $300
  • Annual franchise tax: $300 minimum
  • Annual report: $50 (due by formation date)
  • Registered agent: Required (typically $99-$299/year)

While the $300 filing fee is moderate, the $300 annual franchise tax makes Tennessee more expensive than it initially appears. Total first-year costs are approximately $650.

Tennessee’S Franche Tax Advantages and Opportunities

Tennessee charges all LLCs a minimum $300 franchise tax annually, regardless of income or activity. LLCs with over $100,000 in property or receipts may owe more. This tax is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after your fiscal year ends. The franchise tax partially offsets the benefit of no state income tax.

Tennessee Really Have No Income Tax Strategic Importance

Tennessee has no personal income tax on wages (as of 2021, when the Hall Tax on investment income was fully phased out). However:

  • LLCs pay franchise and excise taxes
  • Business tax rates: 6.5% excise tax on net earnings
  • Gross receipts tax in some cities
  • Higher sales tax (9.55% average combined rate)

The no-income-tax benefit primarily helps individuals and pass-through entity owners.

Tennessee LLC Processing Timeline and Efficiency

Tennessee processing times:

  • Online filing: 3-5 business days
  • Paper filing: 5-7 business days
  • Expedited service: Not available

Tennessee doesn’t offer expedited processing, but standard times are relatively quick. Online filing through the Secretary of State provides faster processing than paper.

Strategic Advantages of Is Nashville Attracting Businesses

Nashville has become a major business destination:

  • Entertainment industry: Music, tourism, and media
  • Healthcare: Major hospital systems and healthcare companies
  • No income tax: Attracts entrepreneurs and remote workers
  • Lower costs: Cheaper than coastal cities
  • Quality of life: Culture, food, and entertainment
  • Growing tech scene: Emerging startup ecosystem

Nashville’s growth has made Tennessee increasingly attractive for diverse businesses beyond traditional industries.

Tennessee’S Annual Report Requirement Advantages and Opportunities

Tennessee requires an annual report on or before the first day of the 4th month following your fiscal year close, with a $50 fee. This report updates member/manager information and registered agent details. Tennessee also requires a separate franchise tax return. Missing either deadline results in penalties and potential administrative dissolution.

Top 3 Recommended Services for Tennessee

Best Overall
#1
ZenBusiness logo
$0 + state fees
Rating: 4.9/5

ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness stands out as our top pick for LLC formation services thanks to its unbeatable combination of value, features, and support. With formation starting at $0 plus state fees, you can rest easy with their worry-free compliance service, award-winning customer support, and 100% accuracy guarantee. The Pro and Premium packages add even more value with 1-day processing, an employer ID number, operating agreement, and services to get your business online like domain name registration, AI business website builder, and more.

Best For

Entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and compliance tools at an affordable price

Pros

  • Starter package is $0 plus state fees
  • Registered agent and compliance services
  • Free worry-free compliance for 1 year
  • Fast 1-day processing time available
  • 100% accuracy guarantee
  • Award-winning customer support

Cons

  • Some features require upgraded plans
  • More expensive Registered Agent service
Fastest Formation
#2
Bizee logo
$0 + state fees
Rating: 4.6/5

Bizee

Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast LLC formation with their $0 package. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who need to form their LLC quickly and affordably. With same-day processing in many states and a year of free registered agent service, Bizee provides exceptional value for basic LLC formation needs.

Best For

Budget-conscious startups needing fast formation

Pros

  • $0 basic formation package
  • Same-day processing available
  • Free registered agent for first year
  • Compliance alerts included
  • Dashboard for document management
  • Free business tools and templates

Cons

  • Operating agreement not included in basic package
  • Limited customer support hours
Best for Branding
#3
Tailor Brands logo
$49 + state fees
Rating: 4.3/5

Tailor Brands

Tailor Brands combines LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Their unique approach includes AI-powered logo design, website creation, and marketing materials. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs who want to establish their brand identity alongside their legal structure.

Best For

Creative businesses wanting formation plus branding

Pros

  • Includes logo design and branding
  • Website builder included
  • Business card designs
  • Mobile app available
  • Operating agreement included
  • EIN service included

Cons

  • No rush processing available
  • Monthly subscription required
  • Customer service via chat/email only

Ready to Start Your Tennessee LLC?

Start Your LLC Today →

Formation starting at $0 + state fees