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Guides for founders

Plain-English articles on forming and running an LLC — written by specialists who file thousands of formations a year.

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The 501(c)(3) Application: Turning Your Passion into a Tax-Exempt Powerhouse

A clear guide to the 501(c)(3) application — Form 1023 vs 1023-EZ, common DIY pitfalls, and how Kickoff Filings gets your nonprofit approved with a 100% guarantee.

June 2, 2026 8 min read
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A joyful entrepreneur expressing relief in a bright, modern office, symbolizing the end of BOI filing stress for domestic business owners.
June 2, 2026 7 min read

Do You Really Need to File BOI? The Truth About the 2026 Rules

FinCEN's 2025 Interim Final Rule exempts U.S. domestic entities and U.S. persons from BOI reporting. Here's what actually changed and who still needs to file in 2026.

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Founder holding a checklist and state filing documents to start an LLC
May 12, 2026 8 min read

How to Start an LLC in 2026: A 7-Step Guide

Step-by-step guide to forming an LLC in any U.S. state — name, registered agent, articles of organization, EIN, operating agreement, and compliance.

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LLC shield versus sole proprietor on a balance scale
May 14, 2026 6 min read

LLC vs Sole Proprietorship: Which Is Better in 2026?

Compare LLC and sole proprietorship on liability, taxes, cost, and credibility so you can pick the right structure for your business.

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EIN tax ID document with magnifying glass
May 16, 2026 5 min read

How to Get an EIN for Your Business (Free, in 15 Minutes)

Apply for your EIN with the IRS for free. Step-by-step instructions plus what to do if you don't have an SSN.

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USA map highlighting the best states to form an LLC
May 18, 2026 7 min read

Best States to Form an LLC in 2026 (Honest Comparison)

Compare Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada, Texas, and Florida — plus when forming in your home state is the smarter choice.

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Registered agent receiving legal mail at an office desk
May 20, 2026 5 min read

Registered Agent: What It Is and Why Your LLC Needs One

What a registered agent does, why every state requires one, and how to choose between being your own agent or hiring a service.

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Single founder versus a group of co-founders
May 21, 2026 6 min read

Single-Member vs Multi-Member LLC: Key Differences

How single-member and multi-member LLCs differ on taxes, paperwork, liability, and management — and how to switch later.

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Calculator and dollar bills representing LLC formation cost
May 22, 2026 6 min read

How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in 2026?

Real cost breakdown of forming an LLC: state filing fees, registered agent, EIN, operating agreement, and annual compliance.

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LLC operating agreement document being signed
May 24, 2026 6 min read

LLC Operating Agreement: Why You Need One (Even Solo)

What an LLC operating agreement is, what it should include, and why even single-member LLCs should have one.

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S Corp versus LLC tax comparison
May 25, 2026 7 min read

S Corp vs LLC: Tax Differences Explained Simply

How LLCs and S-corps differ on self-employment tax, payroll, and paperwork — and when the S-corp election actually saves you money.

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Founder opening a business bank account
May 26, 2026 6 min read

How to Open a Business Bank Account for Your LLC

What documents banks ask for, the best banks for new LLCs in 2026, and why mixing personal and business funds is dangerous.

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