How to Start an LLC in Montana (2026): 7 Steps and the 3 Best LLC Services
The short answer for starting an LLC in Montana this year (2026): Mainstay Filing ($199), Montana Registered Agent.co ($199) and Registered Agent MT.org ($199), in that order. After the picks come 7 short steps; the state's own charge to file is $35.
Each company's listed price on November 12, 2026. State fee ($35) not included.
Starting an LLC in Montana, step by step
Step1
Step 1: Pick the LLC's name
A quick search of the state's business records tells you whether the name is free.
TipHave a second choice ready.
Step2
Step 2: Pick your registered agent
Every LLC must name a registered agent with an in-state street address. A commercial registered agent listed with the Secretary of State, or a noncommercial agent: an individual, including an owner, or an entity in Montana.
The address has to be an actual street address or rural route box number in Montana. A P.O. box alone is not enough.
TipEach pick above can serve as the registered agent.
Official source: As listed on mca.legmt.gov in October 2026
Step3
Step 3: Choose between doing it yourself and a service
Doing it yourself costs $35. Using one of our picks adds $199, and the agent comes with it.
Step4
Step 4: File the Articles of Organization
File the Articles of Organization with the Montana Secretary of State; the fee is $35 (Mont. Code Ann. § 35-8-201).
Official source: As listed on sosmt.gov in October 2026
Step5
Step 5: Get your EIN
When the approval arrives, apply to the IRS for the EIN. Your bank will want it for the business account. Mainstay Filing's yearly price includes the EIN application.
Step6
Step 6: Draft the operating agreement
Write down who owns the Montana LLC and how decisions are made. This operating agreement stays with your records, not with the state.
Step7
Step 7: Plan for year two and beyond
After year one the main job is the annual report ($20, every year, by April 15). The penalty for filing late is $15.
Official source: As listed on sosmt.gov in October 2026
The cost of this lesson
Cost item
Paid to
Price
The formation step
Paid to the state
$35
Annual report
Paid to the state
$20 every year
Late report
Paid to the state
$15
Optional service
Your service
$199 year one
State fees for three years
Paid to the state
$75
The state rows are official figures; the service row uses each company's published price. The three-year total leaves service fees out.
Because Montana wants the annual report every year, a price that files it scored above a lower price that leaves it to you.
Check your understanding
What does it cost to form an LLC in Montana?
$35 to the state. With a service, add $199.
Which form creates the LLC?
The state's form is the Articles of Organization (submitted to the Montana Secretary of State).
Is a registered agent required?
Every LLC must name a registered agent with an in-state street address.
What does Montana require each year?
The annual report: $20, every year, due April 15.
Can I form the LLC without a service?
Yes, by filing yourself for $35 and naming a registered agent.
Which LLC service should a first-time founder use?
Mainstay Filing: it takes the formation, the registered agent and every annual report off your list for $199 a year. After it, Montana Registered Agent.co and Registered Agent MT.org.