If you're going to operate your business in Louisiana, when you start up you're likely to incur filing fees and licensing fees depending on the type of business you run and your business form (corporation, sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC)).

Corporations. If you're doing business as a domestic corporation (a corporation incorporated in Louisiana) in Louisiana you will be subject to various fees when you start up. The following are the filing requirements and payments by domestic corporations to the Louisiana Secretary of State:

If you're doing business as a foreign corporation (a corporation organized outside Louisiana) in Louisiana, you too will be subject to initial fees when you start up. The following are the filing requirements and payments by foreign corporations to the Secretary of State:

Limited liability companies (LLCs). If your company is either a domestic or foreign limited liability company (LLC), you are subject to the same requirements as noted above for corporations, but the fees are $75 instead of $60. Also, like corporations, foreign and domestic LLCs are required to file annual reports (along with a $25 fee) on their anniversary date of organization or qualification. The Louisiana Secretary of State will mail annual report forms to an LLC one month before the due date.

Partnerships. The filing fee for domestic partnerships is $100 and for foreign partnerships is $150. The filing fee for a registered limited liability partnership is $125.

Licenses and fees. Louisiana requires that you obtain a license and pay a fee if you are operating certain types of businesses in the state. Be sure to check with the state to make sure you are complying with the license requirements for your particular profession.