In this video, I walk you through a simple, step-by-step roadmap for how to set up an LLC in 2026—without getting overwhelmed. I cover the exact order I recommend so each step feels less stressful, and you know what to do first and what to do next. By the end, you’ll have clear expectations for what’s required, what it can cost, and the common mistakes that create extra work later. I start with the big foundational decisions: which state to form in (for most people, it’s your home state), how to choose an LLC name and check availability, and what a registered agent actually does. Then we move into the filing step (articles of organization), including management type (member-managed vs manager-managed), fees, processing time, and state-specific quirks like public notice requirements in places like New York. After that, I cover the “keep it clean and legit” steps: operating agreement, getting your EIN from the IRS, basic tax setup (LLC structure vs how you’re taxed), opening a business bank account to separate finances, and how to keep your LLC in good standing with annual reports and clean records. And if you want to save time and avoid mistakes, I explain why using a registered agent service can be worth it for privacy, organization, and reminders.