Business License by State

Business license vs forming an LLC (2026)

Two different things. Forming an LLC is a filing with the state that creates the company. A business license, where one applies, lets the business operate. Mainstay Filing, our best overall pick, handles the LLC filing, the registered agent, the EIN application and the yearly report; it does not replace a license your city, county or industry requires.

How to tell which you need

  1. Find your state on the state table and read what it says.
  2. Ask your city or county clerk about a local license.
  3. Check the board that regulates your industry.