Start a Business in Rhode Island
Forming an LLC in Rhode Island costs $150 in state filing fees; a corporation costs $230. Expect about $50 a year in recurring state fees for an LLC.
Last verified August 2026 against official Rhode Island sources.
Rhode Island Business Formation Costs by Type
| Business type | Filing fee | Processing | Recurring state fees / yr (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| LLC | $150 | 7-10 business days | $50 |
| Corporation | $230 | 5-7 business days | $50 |
| S-Corp | $230 | 5-7 business days | $50 |
| Nonprofit | $35 | 5-7 business days | $20 |
| Partnership | $50 | 5-7 business days | $50 |
Recurring estimate = report fee (halved for biennial reports) + franchise/minimum tax; excludes publication, registered-agent and income taxes. Details and sources are on each guide. Official filing office: business.sos.ri.gov.
Choose a Business Structure in Rhode Island
LLC in Rhode Island
Flexible structure with liability protection and pass-through taxation.
Corporation in Rhode Island
Formal structure ideal for raising capital and issuing stock.
S-Corp in Rhode Island
A federal tax election (IRS Form 2553) for an LLC or corporation.
Nonprofit in Rhode Island
Tax-exempt status for charitable, educational, or religious purposes.
Partnership in Rhode Island
Simple structure for two or more owners sharing profits and losses.
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