Member-managed vs Manager-managed LLC

Matt Horwitz

By Matt Horwitz

•

Updated March 24, 2024

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When forming an LLC, you must decide whether it will be Member-managed or Manager-managed. Another way to describe this is that you need to decide how your LLC will be managed.

An LLC can either be managed by its Members (a Member-managed LLC) or by its Managers (a Manager-managed LLC).

What is a Member-managed LLC?

A Member-managed LLC is when all of the LLC Members (owners) have the ability to bind the LLC in contracts and agreements, as well as take part in the day-to-day business and operations.

Most small businesses choose for their LLC to be Member-managed.

What is a Manager-managed LLC?

A Manager-managed LLC is when one, or a few designated people (called Managers), have the ability to bind the LLC in contracts and agreements, as well as run the business and day-to-day operations.

Typically, the owners (Members) cannot bind the LLC in contracts and agreements, and they can’t take part in running the business and day-to-day operations.

While the Members initially vote-in the Manager(s) (and can remove them), after that, the Members take a passive role and let the Manager(s) run the business.

However, in a Manager-Manager LLC, some of the LLC Members can also be Managers. We’ll discuss this in a few paragraphs.

Depending on the state where you form your LLC, your LLC’s management structure may be listed in your LLC formation documents (Articles of Organization, Certificate of Organization or Certificate of Formation). However, many states don’t ask and just let you decide “internally”, as spelled out in your LLC’s Operating Agreement.

We have Operating Agreement templates you can download below. We have a Member-managed Operating Agreement and a Manager-managed Operating Agreement.

Member-managed LLC by default

If an LLC is formed in a state where management isn’t listed on the LLC formation documents, and the Members haven’t signed an Operating Agreement, then state statute will apply. In this case, states default to an LLC being Member-managed.

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What is an LLC Member?

Simply put, an LLC Member is an owner of the LLC.

An LLC Member can own 5%, 20% 100%, or any percentage, of the LLC.

All states allow for Single-Member LLCs (1 owner) and Multi-Member LLCs (2 or more owners). There is no limit* to the number of Members an LLC can have.

*If an LLC elects to be taxed as an S-Corp with the IRS, there is a limit to the number of shareholders (owners) the LLC can have. The limit is 100 shareholders (source).

What is an LLC Manager?

An LLC Manager is not the same thing as a “general manager” or “manager” (i.e. a store manager).

The term LLC Manager is something specific that is governed by a state’s LLC laws.

An LLC Manager is elected by the LLC Member(s) to bind the LLC in contracts and agreements and run the day-to-day operations.

LLC Management

When a person “manages” an LLC, it means the person has the legal authority to bind the LLC in contracts in agreements as well as run the operations.

Here are some examples of the type of authority someone who manages an LLC has:

  • make legal decisions
  • make financial decisions
  • open an LLC bank account
  • enter into contracts and agreements
  • buy/sell real estate, vehicles, investments, and other financial instruments
  • dispose/divest of the LLC’s assets
  • borrow money and obtain financing
  • hire employees, staff, and independent contractors
  • and more

Whoever is managing the LLC has a fiduciary duty (a legal obligation) to act in the best interest of the LLC.

Member-Managed LLC

A Member-managed LLC is when all of the LLC owners (Members) have a right to bind the LLC in agreements and they regularly make business decisions and run the “day to day” activities.

The key term in Member-managed LLCs is all, meaning that all of the LLC Members have the ability to bind the LLC.

If some of the Members don’t want to partake in the day-to-day activities or bind the LLC in agreements, they can appoint a Manager or Managers.

These Manager(s) can be existing LLC Members, or they can be non-Members, which we discuss below.

“Internal” Manager-managed LLC

Note: An Internal Manager-managed LLC is not an official term, however we use it to make LLC management easier to understand.

An Internal Manager-manager LLC is when some of the Members do not want to run the day-to-day business, but instead want the other Members to take care of this.

For example, let’s look at a four-Member LLC in the real estate business. Two Members, Steve and Susie are bringing the money, but they don’t want to run the day-to-day operations. Bob and Barbie, the other two Members, while bringing some money to the table, are responsible for finding properties and managing the renovations.

Steve, Susie, Bob, and Barbie are all Members, however Steve and Susie do not manage the LLC; Bob and Barbie do.

Therefore, this LLC is a Manager-managed LLC:

  • Steve and Susie are the Members
  • Bob and Barbie are the Managing Members (they are both Members and Managers)

“External” Manager-managed LLC

Note: An External Manager-managed LLC is not an official term, however we use it to make LLC management easier to understand.

An External Manager-managed LLC is very similar to an Internal Manager-managed LLC, except this time, none of the Members are the Managers. Instead, all of the Members take a “back seat” and they hire an outside person or persons (who is not an owner of the LLC) to run the LLC.

For example, Steve and Susie are both owners of an LLC, however, they live in Illinois and invest in real estate in California. They want to bring on an LLC Manager to run the operations in California. They hire Charlie, a real estate expert, as their LLC Manager. Charlie runs the day-to-day operations and binds the LLC in contracts and agreements.

Therefore, this LLC is a Manager-managed LLC:

  • Steve and Susie are the Members
  • Charlie is the Manager

“Hybrid” Manager-managed LLC

Note: A Hybrid Manager-managed LLC is not an official term, however we use it to make LLC management easier to understand.

A Hybrid Manager-managed LLC is an LLC that has both “internal” and “external” Managers.

For example, let’s look at our four-Member LLC again. We have Steve and Susie who are Members. And we have Bob and Barbie who are Managing Members (they are both Members and Managers). The four have decided to hire a real estate expert, Charlie, to help expand their business. Charlie, along with Bob and Barbie, will run the day-to-day operations and bind the LLC in contracts and agreements.

Therefore this LLC is a Manager-managed LLC:

  • Steve and Susie are the Members
  • Bod and Barbie are the Managing Members (they are both Members and Managers)
  • Charlie is just a Manager

How are Single-Member LLCs Managed?

Most Single-Member LLCs elect to be Member-managed, however a Single-Member LLC can also be Manager-managed.

Typically, it’s a little redundant, but if there is a choice on the state’s LLC formation documents, some people don’t want to reveal that they are the owner (Member), so they choose for their LLC to be Manager-managed and they list themselves as the Manager.

This way, it’s more ambiguous since an LLC Manager may or may not be a Member. In this case, they would still own and control the LLC, but that would be done privately through the LLC’s Operating Agreement (there are templates you can download below).

Most LLCs are Member-managed

Most people choose for their LLC to be Member-managed.

A Member-managed LLC is a simpler management structure and is usually easier for people to wrap their head around.

Binding Contracts in a Manager-managed LLC

It’s important to note that in a Manager-managed LLC, it’s only the Managers that can bind the LLC in contracts and agreements.

The Members (that are not Managers) cannot bind the LLC in contracts or agreements and they don’t take part in the day-to-day operations.

An LLC Member can advise an LLC Manager, but an LLC Manager does not have to follow or agree to this advice (depending on the language in the Operating Agreement).

Having said that, Members still have power, since if all Members agree, the Members can remove the existing Managers and appoint a new one. All Members must agree to such changes in writing. Again, the details depend on the language in the Operating Agreement.

What if I want to have someone else sign for the LLC, but I don’t want them to be an LLC Manager?

An LLC can still have someone sign on behalf of the LLC and enter into agreements, but this person doesn’t need to be an LLC Member or Manager. This person is usually called an Authorized Party or Authorized Individual.

This authority can be given to someone using a Resolution or an Authorization Agreement.

Typically, an arrangement like this is more limiting and restricting than having an LLC Manager.

We don’t have a Resolution or Authorization Agreement you can download at this time, but we do recommend working with an attorney if that’s something you’re interested in.

Operating Agreement Downloads for Member-managed and Manager-managed LLCs

Member-managed LLC Operating Agreement

Our Member-managed LLC Operating Agreement template is available in 3 formats:

Manager-managed LLC Operating Agreement

If your LLC will be Manager-managed, you can download the Operating Agreement template below.

Their Manager-managed LLC Operating Agreement template is available in 2 formats:

Operating Agreements don’t need to be notarized

Both Member-managed LLC Operating Agreements and Manager-managed Operating Agreements don’t need to be notarized.

Once the Members and/or Managers sign the Operating Agreement, it’s a legally binding document.

What’s up with all these “M” terms?

We hope this article has helped you learn more about Member-managed LLCs and Manager-managed LLCs.

But c’mon, who thought of those names! They are so confusing and sound so similar.

It reminds me of hip adduction and abduction. Sure, the names make sense, but anyone reading adduction and abduction or Member-managed and Manager-managed has to focus 3x time harder just so their brain doesn’t swap the terms!

Overall, there are way too many “M” terms going on. LLC Members, LLC Managers, LLC Management, Member-managed LLC, and Manager-managed LLC. Yea, way to make us rip our hair out lol. Okay, rant over. We hope we’ve been helpful!

Matt Horwitz
Matt Horwitz
Founder & Educator, LLC University®
Matt Horwitz is the leading expert on LLC education, and has been teaching for 15 years. He founded LLC University in 2010 after realizing people needed simple and actionable instructions to start an LLC. He's cited by Entrepreneur Magazine, Yahoo Finance, and the US Chamber of Commerce, and was featured by CNBC and InventRight.
 
Matt holds a Bachelor's Degree in business from Drexel University with a concentration in business law. He performs extensive research and analysis to convert state laws into simple instructions anyone can follow to form their LLC - all for free! Read more about Matt Horwitz and LLC University.

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149 comments on “Difference between Member-Managed and Manager-Managed LLC”

Disclaimer: Nothing on this page shall be interpreted as legal or tax advice. Rules and regulations vary by location. They also change over time and are specific to your situation. Furthermore, this comment section is provided so people can share their thoughts and experience. Please consult a licensed professional if you have legal or tax questions.

  1. Hi – thank you for your valuable information that you share with us. I need clarification please. I opened an LLC with a friend in FL and we are both listed as managers. I know that managers can be members, but need not be. We are also both the ONLY members. Since we are both members and managers (50/50), do we use a member-managed operating agreement or a manager-managed operating agreement?

    Reply

  2. Hi Matt!
    I feel so thankful for coming across your website, it’s felt so helpful!
    I just have one question of clarification- As the only person on the LLC it doesn’t necessarily matter if I choose Manager or Member managed other then the privacy of legally not bing known as an owner under the manager managed correct? I feel myself leaning towards this.
    What are your thoughts?

    Reply

    • Hi Heather! Thanks so much!! Yes, correct. You can pick whichever you want (and change later if you feel like it). I also like the Single-Member LLC that is Manager-managed ;)

      Reply

  3. Hi Matt, great site! Thanks for the info. I am about the become an external manager for a newly manager-managed LLC (owned by non-residents). My question is, what resolutions/amendments/memos would you suggest to be on the safe side? I talked with the bank. They were not clear on what documents are needed to open an account. They just mentioned the usual three (Certificate if Formation/Operating Agree/EIN letter). The LLC is 5 years old. The member is a single trust with a grantor/administrator, who is also the managing director of the LLC. I want to make sure it’s clear I am the manager and have the authority. Any suggestion would help.

    Reply

    • Thanks PJ! It’s a bit confusing if you say you are the Manager and the Grantor is the Managing Director. Managing Director isn’t an official LLC title, so it sounds like they might also be a Manager. Something to look into and maybe square up. In this case, a Manager-managed Operating Agreement should suffice for the bank. Bankers are usually not LLC savvy, especially with non-traditional LLC structures and management. To solve this, I recommend calling the bank and asking to speak to the branch manager. Then send them over the Operating Agreement for review (ask them to send it to their “legal review” team ahead of time), and then schedule an appointment to open the account.

      Reply

  4. I am helping my wife incorporate a single member LLC (she will be the only member) in Idaho. I filed the Certificate of Organization with the ID Secretary of State and listed me and my wife as LLC Governors as we want me to be an authorized representative.

    In listing us both as Governors did I inadvertently make this a multi-member LLC? Any advice on how to keep this single member but make me an authorized rep or manager would be greatly appreciated.

    Reply

    • Hi Aaron, you should be fine, no need to panic. If the LLC will be Manager-managed, you and your wife can both be Managers (aka Governors on the Idaho Certificate of Organization). Then in your Manager-managed Idaho LLC Operating Agreement, you’d list both of yourselves as Managers, but only your wife as the sole/100% Member. And when she applies for an EIN with the IRS, just tell them there is one Member. And instead of thinking of yourself as an “authorized rep”; I’d upgrade that title to LLC Manager (since that’s what you are lol!) Hope that helps :)

      Reply

  5. Is it easy to change from a multi-managed LLC to a single-managed LLC? Is it required in most states to complete a Statement of Dissolution or can you just file Amended and Restated Articles of Organization to still maintain the LLC?

    Reply

    • Hi Tina, I apologize for our slow reply. You certainly don’t have to dissolve an LLC to change the number of Members. You can amend the Operating Agreement and if Member(s) are listed in the Articles of Organization with your state, then you’d file the amendment with the state. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  6. If an LLC was selected as manager-managed and there is only 1 person who owns and operates the business does this mean higher taxes? Or make any difference at all?

    Reply

    • Hi Jasmin, nope. The taxes are still the same. There is still just one owner, regardless if that owner chooses for their LLC to be Member-managed or Manager-managed. The only difference with Manager-managed (you being the Member and the Manager) is that your title is “Manager” instead of “Member” or “Managing Member” so people can’t necessarily tell if you own the LLC… but they know you have the authority to act on behalf of the LLC.

      Reply

  7. Hi Matt,
    I just want to commend you for providing very important and useful information. Information that you have provided really helps the small business person, because when asking for help, I have run into nothing but fees. Will you please email me a copy of a single member Operating Agreement?

    Thank you.

    Carol Harper

    Reply

    • Hi Carol, you are very welcome! We just emailed you a copy of the Manager-managed LLC Operating Agreement. Hope that helps :)

      Reply

  8. Is it legal for a person representing as registered agent filling Llc, without notice discussions, disclosure of responsibilities no consent and signature to be assigned member manager including the fact there’s no approved Operating Agreement inplace? Didn’t know i was assigned, thank you awaiting your reply stay safe and healthy

    Reply

    • Hi Aurora, did someone/some company list themself as a Member of your LLC without authorization… or did someone list you as an LLC Member without your authorization? Either way, that is not allowed and is null and void. However, can you provide some more information. Meaning, what was your intention… do you have an LLC that you hired someone to setup for you… or something else?

      Reply

  9. Hello Matt, I have done some research on states that would be best to form an LLC as a real estate investor and I have come across Wyoming and it’s advantages of the charging order. If this is true, what would be your advice to me as I will be doing business primarily in MD, but would like to benefit from the Wyoming (investor friendly) protections ? What would be my best option and would it be costly to somehow make this work ?

    Reply

    • Hi Travis, most of the advice around out-of-state LLCs is grossly misrepresented. First if you form a Wyoming LLC, but the LLC is doing business in Maryland, then the Wyoming LLC must register as a foreign LLC in Maryland. If the LLC is sued, that’ll most likely occur in Maryland. And Wyoming wouldn’t have jurisdiction over the case. Maryland law would most likely apply.

      And for more advanced stuff like charging order protection, even that is most ofen misrepresented. Say you form a Wyoming LLC and that LLC owns a Maryland LLC. If you are sued personally, many assume Wyoming law would apply. While this setup is certainly stronger than the first, it’s no guarantee. You are most likely to be sued in Maryland. If you are personally sued, lose, and have a judgement entered against you, the creditor can get a charging order (the right to your LLC profit distributions). If they then can show the court that those payments won’t pay the judgement in a reasonable time, they can make a case for foreclosure of your LLC membership interest. If necessary, the court could foreclose on your LLC membership interest. Many people/websites (usually those that are biased) will tell you Wyoming law will apply. However, you’d really want to speak with an asset protection attorney in Maryland and look at relevant case law and see how the courts treat a Maryland resident’s LLC membership interest. If it’s treated as personal intangible property, it is likely to be considered in Maryland, and again, Wyoming law not likely to apply.

      A lot to unpack there, but that is the overall gist. For legitimate asset protection, again, a conversation (or a few) with different Maryland asset protection attorneys is the best way to go. Also, calling your car insurance company and asking for a $1M to $5M personal umbrella insurance policy will help a lot in the 2nd example. A typical policy is only a few hundred dollars per year. Also increase car insurance coverage is good idea as car accidents can lead to personal lawsuits. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  10. Hi Matt, first of all thank you for taking the time to help so many people by creating this free website and content. My situation is the following; I formed a 1 member LLC (me) and I’m a non-resident alien but when I sent the SS-4 form by fax in the “name and title” field I put my full name and “manager” rather than “member”. So I’m wondering if this is going to cause me problems down the road? And If so, then how can I change it? Thanks again!

    Reply

    • Hi Arturo, you’re very welcome :) I’m not 100% sure about this. There is a chance they will approve it. However, I’d wait until you hear back from the IRS. If it’s approved, that’s good. If not, then file another SS-4 following the instructions on this page: How to get an EIN for LLC without SSN or ITIN. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  11. Hello, I have seen many services offered online that would allow a company, typically a law firm, to form an LLC with them being the owner and then resigning. As I am in the process of forming a manager-managed LLC, my questions are, how does this work ? What purpose does it serve? What are the pros and cons or advantages vs. disadvantages? And is this something that I can do without using an online service ?

    Reply

    • Hi Travis, one doesn’t resign as owner (instead an owner would sell or assign their LLC membership interest to another). Do you mean that they form the LLC and are the LLC Organizer? In that case, then yes, they would resign as the LLC Organizer by signing a Statement of LLC Organizer. The advantage is if you don’t want your name on the filing form (Articles of Organization, Certificate of Organization, or Certificate of Formation) as the LLC Organizer. There are other places on the form where your name may be though. And yes, you can form an LLC yourself. We have instructions for every state here: how to form an LLC in any state.

      Reply

      • Thank you for the reply. After browsing the site I did come across the LLC Organizer which is what I was attempting to describe. Thank you for the clarity. I think the biggest thing for me was anonymity therefore not revealing that I am the owner (except within the operating agreement) while operating a manager-managed LLC.

        Reply

        • Hi Travis, you’re welcome. Okay, gotcha. Yes, any authorized person or company (authorized meaning you gave them permission) can sign your LLC filing as the LLC Organizer. I recommend taking a look at your state’s form and seeing what is required.

          Reply

  12. We are forming an LLC. My husband and I plan to include our children (ages 26, 24 and 17) as owners/members PLUS we are moving soon to north texas and oldest leaves in OK. Can we use our business address as the individual address for everyone including the one who lives in OK?

    Reply

    • Hi Joy, if you are referring to the Texas LLC Certificate of Formation (Governing Authority section), then yes, those addresses can be located in any state. If you are moving to and doing business in Texas, you’ll need to either form an LLC in Texas or form an LLC in Oklahoma and register it as a foreign LLC in Texas. Having said that, it’s important to note that a foreign LLC filing in Texas is more expensive that a “regular” (domestic) LLC filing in Texas. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  13. Hello:

    In my Delaware – LLC there are 2 owners (each with different percentages). At the end of the document it has a line to be filled with the title “Duties” for each member.
    Is it enough just to write for each member “Executive Member” to give them full power over every aspect of the company?
    Thank you

    Reply

    • Hi Ricardo, Executive Member isn’t a term that stands on it its own. It’s not an official word with inherent meaning. We’re also not sure about the document you’re referring to and can’t comment on how to fill it out. Having said that, it sounds like it’s asking for specifics. I guess if you don’t want specifics, you could say something along the lines of “any and all legal activities that are in the best interest of the LLC”. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  14. Thanks for your helpful site. Can a professional Manager of a Delaware LLC be compensated as independent contractor? This is an investment LLC without employees, which won’t require full-time management.

    Reply

    • Hi Claire, you’re very welcome! A non-Member Manager (“External Manager”) can be paid as an employee (W-2) or an independent contractor (1099). Hope that helps.

      Reply

    • Thanks Michael! You’re very welcome. Actually, your question sparked some revisions to the article. We made it more clear on the differences between an LLC Manager and a “regular” manager that people typically think of. So thank you for helping us improve!

      Reply

  16. Hi, Matt,
    My sister and I inherited, equally, several rental properties in California. We are setting up an LLC. Neither of us live near the rental properties and so won’t be doing day-to-day operations. We have someone acting as manager, presently. My sister and I will be the only members of the LLC and would both like to be able to act as Member-managers when necessary – especially with large financial matters – but we also need a local manager who can sign contracts, work with banks, buy/sell (as directed) and in general act as in a Manager-managed situation. Is this doable? Or is this just a Member-managed situation that hires a manager and gives the manager authority to enter contracts, etc..? Is there some legal difference?

    Reply

    • Hi Michael, great question. The general term “manager” and an LLC Manager are very different. The first is a general term that holds no inherent meaning, besides that which exists in the agreement between the manager and the company that hired the manager. The second term is specific to language within an LLC’s Operating Agreement as well as state statute. If you just want to hire someone as a “regular manager” and give them certain authority, that can typically be done with a Resolution or Authorization Agreement. However, you could form a Manager-Managed LLC, where only you and your sister are Members (owners), but then you, your sister, and the person you hire can be the LLC Managers. You can draft the LLC’s Manager-Managed Operating Agreement to give you and your sister more power and control while still allowing the person you hire to (with authorization from you and/or your sister) to sign contracts, work with banks, buy, sell, etc. Either way, we do recommend working with an attorney to properly draft an Authorization Agreement or Operating Agreement to make sure you cover all scenarios. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  17. Hello,
    My partner has a single member LLC in California. While he takes care of the physical work (contractor) I do all the ofice work (invoicing, payroll, bids). Because his job requires him to be out of town often, it would make sense if I was able to sign contracts, checks and other documents (without being a partner/member). What form needs to be submitted? What title should I have?
    Thank you!
    Allison

    Reply

    • Hi Allison, this can be accomplished via a Resolution or Authorization Agreement. This will give you certain powers (or all powers) to bind the LLC in agreements as well as sign checks. However, you’ll then need to take that document to the bank to become an authorized signer. We recommend calling the bank ahead of time, speaking to the branch manager, and asking if they request a specific document or have a different protocol. Feel free to share your experience with the bank. I’m sure it’ll be helpful for other readers. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  19. Hi Matt, We were glad to find your website. Actually, we should have found it a week earlier.. The thing is we selected manager-managed instead of member-managed when we filed a week ago. We simply didn’t understand the difference and selected the wrong one. We are in NY and about to publish the legal notice in 2 newspapers now and are wondering if we should amend it before publishing or just do all the process first and amend it later. This may not be a question for you or for this topic, but if you can give us any thoughts or information you can think of, we truly appreciate it. Thank you so much!

    Reply

      • Hello Matt, thanks so much for your prompt reply! We filed with a registered agent. In the Articles of Organization, it says the company is to be managed by: ONE OR MORE MANAGERS. I think this is what you mentioned. Me and my friend have started this and we will own, manage the LLC by ourselves. If we do not amend, will it be a problem? If so, when do you think is a good time to amend it? Thanks again!

        Reply

        • You’re welcome Nao. No one checks on your LLC to see if it is or isn’t managed by Managers. So it’s not going to affect the publication requirement or how you run your LLC. Your LLC Operating Agreement is where the management is really governed. However, to make everything aligned, you can file an amendment at any time to either remove that statement or change it to “one or more members”. The form to file with New York is called Certificate of Amendment of Articles of Organization. Hope that helps.

          Reply

  20. Hi Matt – Thank you for providing such a great site with valuable information. I am looking at starting an Investment Vehicle LLC with my husband. I understand from previous comments an info you provided that Member Managed is easiest but if we plan on expanding and creating additional LLC that will be managed by the parent LLC should we run parent LLC as Manager Managed? Can you please send me Manager Managed Template. Thanks!

    Reply

  21. Hi Matt,
    I must say I really appricate your website, it has been helpful in answering some questions. I do have one question, my son and I are considering starting an LLC, he is only 15 yrs old, can he be a member on the LLC and should I do a manager-managed or can I do a member-managed LLC since he is a minor.

    Reply

    • Hi Melissa, that is great to hear, thank you! In this case, it’ll be best practice to speak an attorney in the state where you’re going to form your LLC. States have different laws on whether minors can be LLC Members. Additionally, even if a state allows for a minor to be an LLC Member, you’ll also want to look into the ability for that minor to enforce a contract. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  22. Hi Matt, my husband and I are member and managers of the LLC in Illinois We didn’t have an operating agreement but since formation we verbally agreed that I would handle the books and he manages the business. Can he just remove me as a manager without my consent? And does his ownership interest of 98% and I 2% make me have no right if again he wants to remove me as manager and from my role as accountant?

    Reply

    • Hi Mary, these are good questions. Without an Operating Agreement in place, things fall back on the state statute. Typically, in a Multi-member LLC, a Member just can’t kick out another Member unilaterally. Overall though, this would be a good thing to discuss with an attorney. And it would be a good idea to get a Manager-managed LLC Operating Agreement in place. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  23. I’m helping my boyfriend start his carpentry/handyman LLC in Florida. I am in the process of filing for the the LLC online and am having difficulty in determining titles for the section ‘Authorized Person(s) to Manage LLC’. I have several questions that hopefully you are able to clarify.

    -As the owner of the LLC, I have him listed as AMBR (Authorized Member). Is this an appropriate title for him as the business owner?

    -I will be acting as his secretary/employee/etc., handling things such as invoicing, correspondence, and other office work. I am also to have access to bank accounts, insurance, etc. I’m a bit confused as whether I would be listed as an Authorized Representative (AR), Authorized Person (AP), or a Manager (MGR) on the LLC application- what would be the appropriate title?

    -In filing with the IRS, we expect to file as an S-Corp, as he will draw his income from the LLC. For now, he and I will be the only two employees of the LLC. Does this seem like an appropriate tax selection?

    Thanks for your help!

    Reply

    • Hi Meg, yes, AMBR (Authorized Member) is used for an LLC Member (owner). We can’t comment on your second question, since there’s some ambiguity around how the LLC will be managed. I’m not sure if your boyfriend wants the LLC to be Member-managed by him and then you, as the secretary, just have certain powers. Or maybe he wants nothing to do with management, wants to take a back seat, have the LLC be Manager-managed, and you be the LLC Manager. Keep in mind, the term “LLC Manager” has specific ramifications. It’s not the same thing as a “general manager”. It might be a good idea to dive into the details with an attorney, or have a conversation with one.

      Having said that, regarding the opening of an LLC bank account, you may want to list yourself in the “Name And Address of Person(s) Authorized to Manage LLC” section so you can open the bank account and be listed as a signer. Take a look at Florida Division of Corporations: Title Abbreviations. You could also use S (Secretary) instead of AP (Authorized Person). In addition to this, it’s a great idea to call the bank ahead of time, speak with the branch manager, and ask specifically what documentation is needed in order for you to be on the bank account. The bank may not even require that your name be on the LLC’s Articles of Organization. Often, a simple Banking Resolution signed by the LLC Member may work.

      You can both still “get paid” from the LLC without the need for the LLC to elect S-Corp taxation. Meaning, your boyfriend can take a draw from the LLC at any time. This can be done in an LLC with default tax status (LLC taxed as a Sole Proprietorship). If the LLC is taxed as an S-Corp, he actually wouldn’t take a draw. Instead, he’d take a distributive share (which is similar to a draw). Additionally, in an LLC/S-Corp, he’d need to take a reasonable salary. We have more info on LLC/S-Corp here: LLC taxed as S-Corporation. If your boyfriend’s aim is to save money on self-employment taxes, then you’ll want to consider what the net income of the LLC will be. This will help determine when those savings will “kick in”.

      Also, some clarifications. If the LLC remains in its default tax status (LLC taxed as Sole Proprietorship), your boyfriend cannot be an employee and cannot take a salary. Again, he’d only take draws. If you want to receive W-2 wages, then payroll would need to be setup and you can be paid in that manner as an employee. As an alternative, you could also be paid as a 1099 independent contractor. This would avoid the need for payroll. However, instead of your taxes being withheld, you’d be responsible for paying your own taxes. If you ended up taking the LLC/S-Corp route, then you’d both be W-2 employees of the LLC. In summary, you can be a W-2 employee in either LLC/Sole Prop. or LLC/S-Corp, however, your boyfriend can only be a W-2 employee in an LLC/S-Corp setup. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  24. Our manager would need to delegate authority, which is allowed under Washington state law. Is there a standard form that needs to be filled out, or can that be specified in the Operating Agreement?

    Reply

    • Hi William, that’s a good question. Not sure though. Best practice to reach out to an attorney. Hope that helps and thank you for your understanding.

      Reply

  25. Several members [100+] of a golf course & club want to buy the land &club and set it up as a member-owned LLC. There would be a membership cost of around $5,000. [If a LLC member wants out, it could be transferred/sold to a new member!]
    The LLC would own the real estate, buildings & equipment. Donating LLC members would receive a 10% discount off any future annual dues/fees, dinners, etc. NON-LLC members/users/permittees of the golf course and facilities would not receive discounts. i imagine an external manager would be hired.
    Is this the best way to do a golf course member-owned company, that is LLC. Is there a way to avoid k-1 distributions of a multi-member LLC’s?

    Reply

    • Hi Hans, this is quite an advanced question, something we don’t address. Would be best practice to run this by a tax attorney. Thanks for your understanding. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  26. Hi Matt,

    Thank you for all of the information on your site. Question, I own an LLC that is currently not being used in a state different from my home state. I am looking to start a business in my home state that will be wholly owned by the out of state LLC. I’m wondering, if the Home State LLC is set up as a member managed LLC will I be sign and enter into contracts on behalf of the home state LLC? Or will it need to be set up as Manager-managed?

    Reply

    • Hey MP, the child LLC can be Member-managed or Manager-managed. If it were Member-managed, the parent company would bind the LLC into agreements. However, you as the parent company’s Member (or Manager) would be signing on behalf of the parent company.

      If the child LLC were Manager-managed (assuming by you), you would bind the child LLC into agreements and sign on behalf of the child company. Hope that helps.

      Reply

      • Thanks Matt, it does help? Can it be manager managed by the parent company instead of me and I still be able to bind the company to contracts? I ask because I have a home office and would like to keep my address off of the sos public website. Would you also send me the operating agreement templates for both types? Thank you.

        Reply

        • Hi MP, yes, the LLC can be manager-managed by its parent company. I hear you on that. Sure thing. We just emailed them over to you. Hope that helps :)

          Reply

  27. First I would like to thank you for the website. You have provided such helpful information. I am currently helping my mom with her retail clothing LLC. She plans to include her children as members but when it comes to decision making and operations of the business she wants to be the one to make those decisions. This would mean that she should set her LLC up as a Manager-Managed correct? If so than this should be designated on the Operating Agreement and not on the Articles of Organization and would the Operating Agreement be different than a Member- Manged LLC. The LLC is in the state of Michigan. Thanks in advance

    Reply

    • Hi Indy, you’re welcome! And thank you! It sounds like she’s wanting it to be Manager-managed. We’ll be updating the Michigan LLC Operating Agreement page shortly with new templates for download, including a Manager-managed Operating Agreement. For now, we emailed you over a copy. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  28. Hi Matt. My Registered agent was filling for LLC for me. In Certificate of formation stated that – LLC is to be managed by managers. Manager 1: My name. Title: Manager.
    But on the bottom Certificate of formation- the name of the organizer – a person from Registered agent company.
    There is no a word about “members”. Does this Certificate of formation look suspicious? I expected that my title will be “owner” or “member”. But it is “manager” – sounds like this is not my company and I’m just hired.

    Reply

    • Hi Gene, the signature at the bottom is likely the LLC Organizer (which doesn’t have to be a Member). It sounds like your LLC was set up as a Manager-managed LLC and you as the LLC Manager. Usually, when an LLC is Manager-managed, just the Manager(s) are listed on the Certificate of Formation. The LLC Member(s) are listed in the the LLC Operating Agreement. So that’s where you’d be listed as owner (Member). Hope that helps.

      Reply

  29. First, I would like to thank you for all the wonderful information and taking the time to answer my questions.
    Here’s my situation – My daughter and I are starting an LLC in Texas. Initially, it will just be the two of us, but we think other family members may join us in the near future. They will basically be passive members while we will manage the company. Looking long term, I will step down and we will hire someone to take over my responsibilities. So, should we designate in our original Certificate of Formation that we will be Manger-Managed, or do an amendment later if and when it comes about? Either way, please send me the Manager-Managed Operating Agreement.
    Thank again for your help,

    SD

    Reply

    • Hi SD, you’re welcome. This certainly sounds Manager-managed. It may be easier to determine that now vs. filing a Certificate of Amendment later. Also, the Texas LLC Certificate of Amendment is more expensive than most other states at $150, so not sure if that’s a concern. We just emailed over the Manager-managed Operating Agreement. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  30. Hi Matt, Thanks for the great info, will be making a donation shortly. Where can I download a Manager-managed Operating Agreement? Thanks Again

    Reply

    • Hi Mike, thank you so much for the donation! I just emailed you a Manager-Managed Operating Agreement template. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  31. In a TX LLC, my husband and I will be forming an LLC to lease out properties and equipment to our existing llc and other people as well. We have been told that we should list several members (owners and voting rights only passive members) to discourage suits. If we choose manager-managed llc, where are the members listed?

    Reply

    • Hi Patricia, if you chose a Manager-Managed LLC, the Members would be listed in the Operating Agreement. I just emailed you a Manager-Managed Operating Agreement template. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  32. Hi Matt,
    Great site. I live in PA and created a LLC for my self-directed IRA to buy properties to rent. I submitted 15-8821 cert of org-dorm LLC and 15-134A docketing statement to the state. The paper work did not have a section to list members, which would be the IRA account. Where do i state that the IRA account is the sole member, but my wife and I will be managing member to buy and sign documents?

    Reply

    • Hi Dan, that’s correct. The Pennsylvania LLC paperwork doesn’t list Members. Since you likely signed as the LLC Organizer, we recommend signing a Statement of LLC Organizer, which will show you stepping down as the Organizer and appointing your IRA as the owner. In addition to that, prepare and sign a Manager-Managed Operating Agreement (I just emailed you a copy). The Manager-Managed Operating Agreement will show your IRA as the owner and you and your wife as the Managers (note: not “Managing Members” as you stated). Hope that helps!

      Reply

  33. Hi Matt,

    Thank you for all the information you provide here. Can I form a external Manager- managed 1 member LLC( member being myself) and appoint a non US resident as a Manager ? Can I be a passive investor in my own 1 member LLC? Also, since I’ll be the member of the LLC and not the manager, I can open the bank account?

    Can you please email me the manager managed operating agreement as well. Thank you!

    Please email me the

    Reply

    • Hey Rachel, yes, you can set up your LLC in the fashion you described. Please check out your state by clicking the link on the home page of our site. We’ve updated many Operating Agreement lessons and added the Manager-managed Operating Agreement template. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  34. Indeed nice article. Thanks! A quick question – in a two members existing LLC where “Articles of Organization” states the Management to be “Managed by All Members”, can a member still be a passive investor through stating that fact (i.e. being passive) in Operating Agreement? Or do you think it is best to update/amend the “Articles of Organization” to state the Management to be “Managed by one manager”?

    Reply

    • Hi Gabbar, I would look deeper and see if the LLC is truly shifting from a Member-managed LLC to a Manager-managed LLC, and if so, the Articles of Organization should be amended to reflect that change. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  35. I have just formed an LLC with my wife as managed by managers and will probably proceed as SMLLC, reflecting myself as manager. Can you please provide the appropriate operating agreement template?

    Thanks

    Reply

    • Hi John, I just emailed you a Manager-managed Operating Agreement template. If you formed an LLC with your wife, that sounds like 2 Members, therefore a Multi-Member LLC (not a Single-Member LLC). If your LLC was formed in a community property state, please see our article on the Qualified Joint Venture LLC. This is a tax election that can be made with the IRS that allows 2-Members LLCs owned by a husband and wife (formed in a community property state) to be taxed as a Sole Proprietorship instead of being taxed as a Partnership. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  36. If 3 S-Corps that are each owned by a unique single person partner to form a new LLC and the 3 owners of the S-Corps will all be participating in management of the new LLC, would that need to be member managed or manager managed where the S-Corps vote the 3 humans in as managers?

    Reply

    • Hey Carl, that sounds like a Manager-managed LLC since the owners are S-Corps (or rather, their underlying state entities; a Corporation or LLC since an S-Corp is not created at the state level, but rather it’s only a tax entity) and the Managers are individuals. Yes, the 3 owner entities would vote to elect the Managers. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  37. Hi Matt,

    I have a media project where three investors want to form an LLC and invest into an LLC and become a manager of which my company is also a manager. They have no experience in the media project, but as a manager they can take advantage of recent tax laws. How can I protect the media project from their interference as a manager?

    Reply

    • Hi Bob, allowing your investors to be LLC Managers will give them a lot of rights and control over the business operations, and by default, the ability to bind the LLC into contracts and agreements. And if all 4 of you are LLC Members, depending on how the LLC’s Operating Agreement is drafted, you could lose out on voting rights if things can be decided on by a majority vote. So in default scenario (meaning standardized/default/templated Operating Agreement language), you’re likely left with little to no control. There are a number of different ways to structure a capital investment (for example, you could consider a loan, collateralized or uncollateralized, as an option) as well as the numerous ways to structure an LLC’s Operating Agreement. All of these options should be discussed with an attorney (or a few) before making any decisions. Hope that’s helpful.

      Reply

  38. Hi Matt
    A purchase agreement has been entered into with a Manager managed LLC (“A”) where the Manager is an LLC (“B”)
    The agreement provides for payment to the Seller LLC (“A”)
    The Managing LLC has requested that the check be made payable to the Managing LLC (“B”) rather than the Selling LLC (“A”)
    Is there any problem with complying with this request?
    Thank you

    Reply

    • Yea, that sounds pretty funny to me. If “A” is seller, payment should be made to “A”, not “B”.

      Reply

  39. Hey Matt,

    can you please explain about holding companies ?
    Pretend I have a LLC, my business is to sell on marketplaces and ecommerce. If I’ll have another business what can I do to separate them, I really have to form another LLC under the first to hold assets, such as real estate, and vehicles or there’s another option. sorry about my english

    thank you.

    Reply

    • Hi Elton, you can either form multiple LLCs or you can form a Parent LLC (a holding company) and that LLC is the Member (owner) of the other LLCs (Child LLCs). Hope that helps.

      Reply

  40. Hello Matt,
    Can you please email me Operating agreement for Manager-Managed LLC?

    Thank you

    Reply

  41. Thanks for the clarification. I decided to go with a manager-managed LLC. Can you resend the manager-managed LLC, I don’t believe I received the manager-managed LLC template from you unless I lost it some kinda way, which is very probable, lol. Thanks for the advice and help once again.

    Reply

  42. My brother is a foreign citizen and wants to open an LLC in Delaware doing business in California.
    He wants to be 100% onwner
    Me ( American citizen) wants me to help him by managing certain aspects of behalf his LLC. ( open bank account -since he is not in USA- help him with transactions etc).
    Mainly in case he buys big real estate he wants to be the one who makes all decisions and signs documents when he is in USA , but when he is not I can sign for him.
    So, when we apply for LLC
    What it should say?
    Him ( 100% own) : member
    Me: Manager

    Right?
    Or it should say
    Him: owner , member & managing member
    Me: additional or 2nd Manager ?

    He just doesn’t want me to have the full responsibility for everything for his LLC ( company)

    Please clarify
    Thanks

    Demetrios.

    Reply

  43. I hope you can help me. My husband and I are planning to open a fastfood restaurant here in Arkansas. I will be working full time and will hire one full time employee and a part time employee. My husband has his own business but can help me in the restaurant about 40% of the time. The best business option for us is to have an LLC. I will be the manager but he can too (make decisions, sign contracts, etc). So ours woukd be Member managed.

    What do you think is the best option for us for tax purposes, as sole proprietor, S corp, or C Corp.?

    Reply

    • Hi Lyn, there are far more details to consider regarding how the LLC is taxed. If there is just one Member, by default, the IRS will tax the LLC like a Sole Proprietorship. If there are 2 or more Members, by default, the IRS will tax the LLC like a Partnership. We have info on LLC/S-Corp here: LLC S-Corp taxation. We don’t have info on LLC taxed as C-Corp yet – it’s not too common. However, you’ll want to speak with a few accountants regarding the best method of taxation for your LLC. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  44. Hello Matt,
    Can you please email me Operating agreement for Manager-Managed LLC?

    Thank you

    Reply

  45. I have a current LLC but I want to open another LLC under it (basically the first one will be a holding company is my understanding) The originall LLC is a 2 member managing company. Will I continue a Member managed operating agreement for the company I am forming under it or does this now qualify as a Manager-Managed? I am assuming the former as the the orignial 2 members will still be managing both the holding company and this new company?

    Reply

        • Hi Julie, the email came back as “failed”. Please fill out the contact form on our website and I’ll send the Operating Agreement your way. Thanks.

          Reply

    • Hi Julie, you have the LLCs managed any way you want. There is no “forced option”. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  46. Hi Matt! First, thank you for this website and the information that you provide. This has been my go-to source since I’ve discovered it in January 2018. It’s simple, straight-forward, and user-friendly. Second, I’d like to get a soft copy of the Manager-Managed Operating Agreement if you’re still sharing that. Thanks in advance.

    Best Regards,

    Dave R.

    Reply

    • Hey Dave, thanks for the awesome comment! So great to hear! Just sent you an email with the Manager-Managed Operating Agreement. Hope that helps and best wishes :)

      Reply

  47. Does the sole proprietor of a manager-managed LLC have to be the manager or can an outside person be chosen?
    Do you have a manager-managed operations agreement?

    Reply

    • Hey Kitty, a non-Member can be a Manager. I just emailed you a Manager-managed Operating Agreement. Hope that helps.

      Reply

      • I’m looking at a current, KY, LLC where someone has listed their own name, 11 consecutive (11x–managers)It references the LLC being operated as “Managers”, and that the decision is being “executed by the organizers” (same name),then the same person signs as “The registed agent, on behalf of the organizers???) Every referenced title is the same name. Is this typical? This seems beyond a ‘manager’, not wanting to be recognized as a member, or vice versa. Thanks in advance for any insight.

        Reply

        • Hi Sherry, if an LLC is Manager-managed, then there wouldn’t be mention of an LLC Member (in a publicly filed document). And it’s not rare for John Doe to be the Registered Agent, the Organizer, and the Manager. It’s quite common. Hope that helps.

          Reply

  48. The only way to appoint a manager is to vote someone into that position, after the Operating Agreement is formed? Meaning that when the LLC is initially being formed, everyone is either a manager or a member.? (I’m from Texas)

    Reply

    • Hi Jordan, think of the vote (if Members are voting to elect a Manager or Managers) taking place by adopting and signing the Operating Agreement. But what’s entered in the Certificate of Formation should match what the vote becomes. I know that’s a bit confusing to read, but let me know if that helps.

      Reply

  49. My friend and I are purchasing residential rentals in PA as investment for retirement. We have decided on forming an LLC. We live in different towns about an hour away. It will be a 50/50 partnership. He mentioned that it may be easier to have me as the Member Manager in our agreement so he doesn’t have to come out to sign forms, such as getting home insurance and whatever else comes up. Thoughts? Suggestions? And if I do become the Member Manager, will I incur any additional tax liability? No, I will not be taking any salary. Thank you in advance.

    Reply

    • Hi William, I believe you mean “Manager” or “Managing Member”. A “Member Manager” isn’t a term that is really used (as it’s ambiguous). For more details on titles, please see LLC Officer Titles. I think what your partner is suggesting though is for the LLC to be Manager-managed and you be the Manager. If that’s the case, no, this will not increase your tax liability. Hope that helps.

      Reply

  50. Hello,

    I will probably be starting a manager managed LLC in Indiana with me as the manager. It will be just me. I am starting a few online e-commerce businesses. I am looking for the easiest option that provides the best liability protection as well as good tax benefits. Any suggestions?

    Thanks,

    Scott

    Reply

    • Hey Scott, Member-managed vs. Manager-managed shouldn’t affect liability or tax benefits (in simple terms). If you really wanted to dig into the details, you’d have to get on the phone with a few attorneys. There may not be much of a benefit of being a single-member LLC that is Manager-managed by you (being both the Manager and the sole Member). But on the other hand, many say it doesn’t matter much in a single-member LLC. Apologies for the vague answer, but hope it helps somewhat.

      Reply

  51. I am forming an LLC for a rental business and am not sure about member managed vs manager managed for tax reasons. Are they both treated as pass through taxation?

    Reply

    • Yes, they are both treated the same for pass through taxation. This might be a helpful example… pretend you have a Manager-managed LLC with 3 people. You and a business partner are Members and you hire a 3rd person, pay them a salary, and they are your Manager (and not a Member). The Manager will just pay taxes as normal (whether an employee or independent contractor). You and your partner still have to file a 1065 Partnership Return, issue K-1s, and report the income on your personal 1040s. On the other hand, if you and your business partner (this time no 3rd person) formed a Member-managed LLC, you’d still file taxes the exact same way. Hope that helps Jay.

      Reply

  52. I enjoy your wisdom Matt. I’m a General Contractor in Michigan who is looking into creating multiple LLC’s to eliminate or reduce certain taxes and insurance obligations by way of “spreading the wealth” with each individual member of our various crews. For instance, a manager managed, five man drywall crew, all members, are compensated on a percentage basis determined by the role they play. If the facts were laid out in writing beforehand, would this be legit? Could I look at your member managed operating template?

    Reply

      • Hi Del, thanks for the kind words. Honestly, in this situation, I’m really not sure. First time hearing of something like this. I recommend giving our “knights of the roundtable” strategy a go and phoning a few attorneys and/or accountants. I just emailed you the Manager-managed Operating Agreement.

        Reply

        • Hey Matt, I want to say thank you for the response and I appreciate you offering your expertise to those of us who are always seeking ways to better ourselves. Much gratitude.

          Upon further analysis it looks as tho a Member Managed llc could be the wiser choice for my endeavor due to certain limitations within this myriad of potential mayhem. Do you think I could bother you for an member managed operating agreement template to look over?

          Reply

  53. Could you also forward me a copy of your Manager Managed Operating Agreement Template?

    Reply

      • Hello Matt,
        First of all, thank you for your Q&A, pretty helpful.

        My wife and I are starting a Arkansas LLC for a couple of rental properties, very simple. It’s just her and I and no one else will be “members.”
        1)Will this be a member managed or manager managed setup?
        2)I have no clue as to what to say on the operating statement. Any ideas will be a huge help!!

        Thank you!!!

        Reply

        • Hey Gary, you’re very welcome :) 1. Easiest to do Member-managed. 2. You can download a “fill in the blank” Operating Agreement here: Arkansas Operating Agreement. There are instructions on that page which should help.

          Reply

      • Matt,

        Would you forward me your manager managed template as well? (Operating agreement) I love what you do for the community.

        Reply

  54. My deceased mother & her disabled sister have an llc. I am the executor of my mothers will & my aunt also signed over 50 to me. Can I form an llc for just my mother & let my aunt’s kids have hers seperately

    Reply

    • Hi Patricia, I’m not sure in this case. Apologies I couldn’t be more helpful. I recommend calling a few lawyers and seeing what they think.

      Reply

  55. Hi ,
    My wife & setting up a cleaning business. My wife & I will manage all business operations & will hire employees to handle the labor (cleaning) part. If I’m right, is “members managed” the best way to go in my case? With the members being just me & my wife?

    Reply

    • Hi Julio, yes, correct. A Member-managed LLC with you and your wife is the way to go. Hope that helps!

      Reply

  56. Our Grown college age children will be members on our LLC, however at this time we want a manager-managed LLC, can you email the template to me. I read in one of your other comments that it was different

    Reply

      • I’m in the process of forming my LLC. I plan to add myself and my three kids as members. Kids are 18, 16 and 14. Because of my kids, I plan to make my LLC a Manager Managed structure in which I intend to be the manager and make my kids passive members. My LLC is being formed for my Real Estate Business, as I’m a Real Estate Broker in the state of WA. I also intend to elect to be taxed as an S-Corp due to the amount of money I predict to make. Is there any pointers you can give me or do you think my plan is ok?

        Reply

  57. Hello,
    I want to open a personal care agency by myself in the State of Indiana. I am still confused on if I should select a manager- managed or member- managed. Since I will be the only one making decisions. Is it very difficult to do manager- managed articles?

    Reply

    • Hi Barbara, you can really pick either one. There are not really pros and cons in the single-member Indiana LLC to going one way over the other. I’d say if you’re looking for something simple, go with Member-managed. On the other hand, if you decide to go with Manager-managed, let me know and I’ll email you our Manager-managed Operating Agreement (we don’t have it on the website yet). Hope that helps!

      Reply

  58. Hi Matt,

    My business partner and I will be establishing a Multi member LLC in PA. Currently we are still searching for a suitable Tax Professional here in Phila-Pa. We each operate the business from home (two separate addresses). Are we able to list two different addresses when establishing an LLC for tax purposes???

    Reply

    • Hey Nadiya, on the Pennsylvania Certificate of Organization, there are two address fields. The first is the Registered Office address. The second is the LLC Organizer address. There isn’t a way to use two addresses for the Registered Office, so you’ll need to choose one address to put there. If you’d like to list both you and your partner (and both of your addresses) in the Organizers section, you can do that. Hopefully that helps. Let me know if you have any followup questions.

      Reply

  59. I have submitted an application for LLC. I am operating a wildlife rescue and want to become non-profit. Is this the first step in that process? Do I ave to pay an annual fee to keep the LLC for our name?

    Reply

    • Hi Pam, LLCs are not non-profit vehicles. A non-profit is actually a non-profit Corporation. Said another way, you’d first form a Corporation with the state and then file an application with the IRS to get an exempt/non-profit status. Whether or not your LLC has an Annual Report depends on the state. Where did you form the LLC?

      Reply

  60. In our Tour by vehicle LLC, two owners and founders are managers. The LLC wants to have additional tour drivers who are members compensated on a per tour basis.

    How do we designate the drivers as members / owners?

    Reply

    • Hi John, are you sure you want the drivers as members (owners) of the LLC? You can pay people on a per tour basis without adding them as owners in your LLC.

      Reply

    • Didn’t you read this part above? Do you want your members able to remove your managing owners if there were ever a disagreement?

      “An LLC Member can advise an LLC Manager, but an LLC Manager does not have to follow or agree to this advice.”

      Having said that, Members still have power, since if all Members agree, the Members can remove the existing Managers and appoint a new one. All Members must agree to such changes in writing.”

      PS. Thank you for the excellent explanation.

      Reply

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