Is the web site Legalzoom.com a good place to sign up to change to an LLC or should I go through an attorney. Can you just call the Secretary of State MN and sign up and register that way or do you have to have legal papers for that.

Hello pio:

Incorporating your business takes much more than a phone call. You are going to need some help doing it. In addition to legalzoom, which is run by Robert Shapiro, the guy who got OJ Simpson off, and is a very good lawyer, I've used The Company Corporation before...

But, there's jillions of places to go. You could, of course, hire your own lawyer. That may be the way to go. These sites do NOT offer legal advice, and if you don't understand the legalities of what you are doing, I'd hire a lawyer. Yes, it'll cost a little more in the short run, but probably save tons in the long run.

You certainly don't want to have invested ALL your money into the corporation, only to have the "veil" of your corporation pierced because you did something wrong now.

excon

Xcon, Pio was asking about a LLC, not a corporation. But the answer is similar in any case.

You can form a LLC (or a corporation too, for that matter) online in most states. Generic articles of Association (for an LLC) are generally provided or you can copy them from the pertinent statute. They are not very complicated.

If your LLC is to have more than one member (yourself), however, it is a good idea to also write a management agreement. These don't have to be filed with the state but a multi-party LLC really makes no sense without one.

Legal zoom is a very good service. I have a cousin who registered an S corp/LLC in the state of Nevada and worked out very well for him.

But again its all about the type of business you are trying to do. If it is a simple business like opening an eBay store, submit articles directory or other businesses requiring less liability, you might be good. On the other hand if you plan to do a business like opening a food outlet, company or say transportation business, you need a real attorney who you can call up and meet any time.