Which state is cheaper for an LLC: Nevada or Delaware?

Over 5 years, Delaware is cheaper with an estimated total cost of $1,805, compared to $2,020 for Nevada, saving you approximately $215.

Can I register in Delaware if I live and work in Nevada?

You can form an entity in Delaware, but if your principal residence or business operations are in Nevada, statutory nexus rules require you to register as a Foreign LLC in Nevada. In Nevada, the foreign filing fee is $425 plus annual foreign maintenance of $350/year.

2026 Head-to-Head Statutory Comparison

Nevada vs Delaware LLC

Delaware specializes in large corporate governance and venture funding; Nevada prioritizes aggressive owner liability protections.

5-Year Cost Verdict: Delaware saves an estimated $215 over 5 years.

Nevada Model →Delaware Model →

Direct Side-by-Side Fee Matrix

Statutory 2026 Fee Schedules

Metric	Nevada	Delaware
Initial State Filing Fee	$75	$110
Annual Report Fee & Frequency	$350 (annual)	$0 (none)
Annual Franchise Tax	$0 / None	$300/yr
5-Year Estimated True Cost	$2,020	$1,805
Public Member Anonymity	High (Anonymous)	High (Anonymous)
Foreign Qualification Fee	$425 upfront ($350/yr)	$200 upfront ($300/yr)

The Reality of Forming Out-of-State

Operating in Nevada with a Delaware LLC?

If you live or conduct physical business in Nevada and form in Delaware, you must register as a Foreign LLC in Nevada. This means paying Delaware's formation fee ($110) PLUS Nevada's foreign filing fee ($425) and two annual registered agent fees.