North Carolina LLC
Tar Heel Taxes
Engineering your legal fortress in North Carolina. Updated guide for real estate holding companies.
Filing Fee
$125
One-time state fee
Annual Cost
$200
Recurring maintenance
Privacy Level
Low
Public record visibility
Why form in North Carolina?
Annual report fee is higher than average.
2026 Regulatory Outlook
For real estate investors, North Carolina offers a specific blend of liability protection and tax implications. Whether you are holding a single family rental or a commercial complex, understanding the local Secretary of State requirements is crucial.
Strategic Insight
If you own property physically located in North Carolina, you typically MUST register the LLC here (or register a "Foreign LLC" here). Forming in Wyoming but ignoring North Carolina registration while owning property here can lead to fines.
Steps to Form
- Name Search: Ensure your desired name is available in the North Carolina database.
- Registered Agent: You must appoint a registered agent with a physical address in North Carolina.
- Articles of Organization: File the paperwork and pay the $125 fee.
- Operating Agreement: Corporate formality to prevent piercing the veil.
- EIN: Obtain from IRS after state approval.
Compare North Carolina
See how North Carolina stacks up against Wyoming, Delaware, and Nevada for privacy and asset protection.
- Filing Fee$125
- Annual Fee$200
- PrivacyLow