When considering the formation of a limited liability company (LLC), it is important to understand the similarities and differences between different states’ regulations.
This article presents a side-by-side comparison of Arizona and Tennessee LLCs, highlighting key aspects such as formation requirements, taxation, management structure, and legal protections.
By examining these factors, entrepreneurs and business owners can make informed decisions about which state’s LLC laws align best with their specific needs and goals.
Arizona vs. Tennessee LLC
Arizona
No annual report filing requirement. This can save you time and money.
Low annual filing fee. The annual filing fee in Arizona is only $50.
No state income tax. This can save you money on taxes.
Strong asset protection. Arizona LLCs offer strong asset protection, which means that your personal assets are protected from creditors in the event of a lawsuit.
Tennessee
No franchise tax. This can save you money on taxes.
Low annual filing fee. The annual filing fee in Tennessee is only $300.
Business-friendly laws. Tennessee has a reputation for being business-friendly, which can make it easier to start and operate an LLC.
Strong asset protection. Tennessee LLCs offer strong asset protection, which means that your personal assets are protected from creditors in the event of a lawsuit.
| Arizona LLC | Tennessee LLC |
|---|---|
| At least one organizer is required to file the Articles of Organization for an Arizona LLC. | One or more organizers are required to file the Articles of Organization for a Tennessee LLC. |
| The formation fee for an Arizona LLC is $50. | The formation fee for a Tennessee LLC is $300. |
| The Arizona Corporation Commission (AZCC) doesn’t require an Annual Report (or fee) for an Arizona LLC. | Tennessee LLCs are required to file an annual report. The fee is a flat rate of $300. |
| Arizona imposes a corporate income tax on LLCs. | Tennessee imposes a franchise and excise tax on LLCs. |
| Both member-managed and manager-managed LLCs are allowed in Arizona. | Both member-managed and manager-managed LLCs are allowed in Tennessee. |
| Arizona requires LLCs to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. | Tennessee also requires LLCs to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. |
Cost Breakdown of The Two
You may use our free LLC cost calculator by state to find out filing fees, tax percentages, income taxes, and more.
Formation Fee: In Arizona, the formation fee for an LLC is $50, whereas in Tennessee, the filing fee is $300.
Annual Report Fees: In Arizona, the annual report fees range from $0 to $100, depending on the LLC’s value. In contrast, Tennessee charges a flat rate of $300 for the annual report.
Taxes: Arizona imposes a corporate income tax on LLCs, while Tennessee levies a franchise and excise tax. The specific tax rates and requirements may vary.
Additional Costs: Apart from the formation and annual report fees, there may be additional costs associated with maintaining an LLC, such as registered agent fees, business license fees, and professional service fees.
Ongoing Compliance: Both Arizona and Tennessee have ongoing compliance requirements, which may include filing annual reports, maintaining proper records, and complying with any state-specific regulations.
Non-compliance may result in penalties or the loss of legal protections.
Related Posts:
- Arizona LLC: Cost Breakdown, Pros and Cons, Requirements
- Tennessee LLC: Cost Breakdown, pros and cons, requirements
Similarities Between Arizona and Tennessee LLC
Limited Liability Protection: Both Arizona and Tennessee offer limited liability protection to LLC owners, meaning that their personal assets are generally shielded from business liabilities.
Flexible Management Structure: Both states allow for flexible management structures in LLCs.
Owners can choose to have member-managed LLCs, where all members actively participate in the management, or manager-managed LLCs, where designated managers handle the day-to-day operations.
Pass-through Taxation: Arizona and Tennessee both follow the federal tax treatment for LLCs, allowing for pass-through taxation.
This means that LLC profits and losses are reported on the individual members’ or owners’ personal tax returns, avoiding double taxation at the entity level.
Ease of Formation: In both states, forming an LLC involves filing the necessary formation documents with the respective Secretary of State’s office.
The process typically includes selecting a unique business name, appointing a registered agent, and submitting the required forms and fees.
Operating Agreement: While not legally required in either state, having an operating agreement is highly recommended for LLCs.
This document outlines the ownership and management structure, operating procedures, and key provisions of the LLC, helping to clarify the rights and responsibilities of the members.
Additional Resources:
- Arizona vs. Texas LLC
- Best States to Form LLC For Non-resident Individuals
- Arizona vs. South Carolina LLC
Steps to Form LLC in Arizona
Choose a Name: Select a unique name for your LLC that complies with Arizona’s naming requirements. The name should include the words “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviation “LLC.”
Appoint a Statutory Agent: Designate a statutory agent, also known as a registered agent, who will receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC.
The agent must have a physical address in Arizona.
File Articles of Organization: Prepare and file the Articles of Organization with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC).
This document officially establishes your LLC and includes information such as the LLC’s name, statutory agent details, management structure, and purpose.
Create an Operating Agreement: Although not required by law in Arizona, it is recommended to create an operating agreement.
This document outlines the ownership, management, and operational procedures of your LLC. It helps establish clear guidelines and prevent misunderstandings among members.
Obtain an EIN: If your LLC has multiple members or if you plan to hire employees, you’ll need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website.
Comply with Tax and Regulatory Requirements: Register for state and local taxes, such as sales tax or employer withholding tax, if applicable.
Additionally, ensure compliance with any specific industry regulations or licenses that may apply to your business.
Annual Reports: Arizona LLCs are required to file an annual report with the ACC. The report includes basic information about your LLC and requires a filing fee.
Steps to Form LLC in Tennessee
Choose a Name: Select a unique name for your LLC that complies with Tennessee’s naming requirements.
The name must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation like “LLC.”
Appoint a Registered Agent: Designate a registered agent who will receive legal and official documents on behalf of your LLC in Tennessee.
The agent must have a physical address in the state.
File Articles of Organization: Prepare and file the Articles of Organization with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
This document includes essential information such as the LLC’s name, purpose, principal place of business, registered agent details, and management structure.
Pay the Filing Fee: Submit the required filing fee along with the Articles of Organization. The filing fee for LLC formation in Tennessee is $300.
Create an Operating Agreement: Although not legally required, it is highly recommended to draft an operating agreement.
This internal document outlines the ownership structure, member roles, voting rights, profit distribution, and other operational guidelines for your LLC.
Obtain Required Permits and Licenses: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain additional licenses, permits, or registrations at the state, county, or city level.
Check with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance.
File Annual Reports: After formation, your LLC is required to file an annual report with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
The report includes updated business information and must be filed by the due date to maintain good standing.
Feature Comparisons Between Arizona LLC vs. Tennessee LLC
Formation Requirements: In Arizona, at least one organizer is required to file the Articles of Organization, while in Tennessee, one or more organizers are required to file the Articles of Organization.
Formation Fees: The formation fee for an LLC in Arizona is $50, whereas, in Tennessee, it is $300.
Annual Report Requirements: In Arizona, LLCs are required to file an annual report with the Arizona Corporation Commission, and the fee ranges from $0 to $100 based on the LLC’s value.
In Tennessee, LLCs are also required to file an annual report, and the fee is a flat rate of $300.
Management Structure: Both Arizona and Tennessee allow for member-managed and manager-managed LLCs.
Member-managed LLCs are when all members participate in the decision-making process, while manager-managed LLCs have designated managers responsible for day-to-day operations.
Taxation: Arizona imposes a corporate income tax on LLCs, while Tennessee imposes a franchise and excise tax. Both states follow the federal tax treatment for LLCs, allowing for pass-through taxation.
Legal Protections: Both Arizona and Tennessee provide limited liability protection to LLC owners, shielding personal assets from business liabilities.
Registered Agent: Both states require LLCs to have a registered agent with a physical address in the respective state.
Operating Agreement: Although not legally required, having an operating agreement is highly recommended in both Arizona and Tennessee.
This document outlines the ownership, management, and operational details of the LLC.
Business Environment
Arizona:
Pro-Business Climate: Arizona has a reputation for being pro-business, with a low regulatory burden and favorable tax policies that attract companies.
The state encourages entrepreneurship and provides support for business growth and innovation.
Growing Industries: Arizona has a diverse economy with thriving industries such as aerospace and defense, technology, healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing.
These sectors offer opportunities for businesses to thrive and collaborate.
Skilled Workforce: The state is home to a well-educated and skilled workforce, supported by several esteemed universities and research institutions.
This talent pool provides businesses with access to a skilled labor force across various industries.
Tennessee:
Business-Friendly Environment: Tennessee offers a business-friendly environment, characterized by low taxes, reasonable regulations, and an emphasis on economic development.
The state actively supports job creation and entrepreneurship.
Thriving Industries: Tennessee is known for its strong industries such as automotive manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and music and entertainment.
The state’s strategic focus on these sectors creates opportunities for businesses in related fields.
Skilled Workforce: Tennessee boasts a skilled and diverse workforce, supported by renowned universities, community colleges, and vocational training centers.
The state’s commitment to workforce development ensures businesses have access to talented individuals.
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Arizona vs. Tennessee Taxes
Arizona Taxes:
Corporate Income Tax: Arizona imposes a corporate income tax on LLCs and corporations. The tax rate is a flat 4.9% on taxable income.
Personal Income Tax: Arizona has a progressive personal income tax system with multiple tax brackets.
The rates range from 2.59% to 8% for individuals and vary based on filing status and income level.
Sales Tax: The state sales tax rate in Arizona is 5.6%. However, local jurisdictions may impose additional sales taxes, resulting in varying total sales tax rates across the state.
Tennessee Taxes:
Franchise and Excise Tax: Tennessee imposes a franchise and excise tax on LLCs and corporations.
The tax has two components: a franchise tax based on net worth and an excise tax based on net earnings. The tax rates vary and depend on the type and size of the business.
No Personal Income Tax: Tennessee does not levy a personal income tax on individuals. This can be advantageous for residents as they are not subject to state income tax on their earnings.
Sales Tax: Tennessee has a sales tax rate of 7%, which is imposed statewide. Local jurisdictions can add additional sales taxes, resulting in varying total sales tax rates throughout the state.
Flexibility in Rules and Regulations
Arizona:
Business-Friendly Regulations: Arizona has a reputation for having a business-friendly regulatory environment. The state aims to minimize bureaucratic hurdles and streamline processes for businesses.
Flexible Entity Structures: Arizona allows various entity structures, including limited liability companies (LLCs), corporations, partnerships, and sole proprietorships.
This flexibility enables businesses to choose the structure that best suits their needs and goals.
Flexible Licensing Requirements: Arizona has streamlined licensing requirements for certain professions and industries, making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and operate businesses in those sectors.
Tennessee:
Ease of Business Formation: Tennessee is known for its relatively straightforward and efficient business formation process.
The state provides resources and online tools that simplify the process of registering and establishing a business.
Support for Small Businesses: Tennessee offers support and resources specifically targeted towards small businesses and entrepreneurs.
This includes access to mentorship programs, training, and assistance with funding opportunities.
Regulatory Assistance: Tennessee has regulatory agencies and offices dedicated to providing guidance and
Assistance to businesses, helping them navigate regulatory requirements and comply with relevant laws.
Key Differences Between Arizona and Tennessee
