Series LLC vs Traditional LLC: What Is the Difference?

Looking to form a business entity but not sure whether to go for a Series LLC or a traditional LLC? This article breaks down the key differences between the two structures, including liability protection, tax implications, and management requirements. Anyone looking at LLC formation and wanting to understand the differences in liability protection, tax implications, and management requirements would need to decide between a Series LLC and a traditional LLC. So Series LLC vs. LLC, what suits your business?

Read More: Best Registered Agent Services 2024

What is an LLC?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a flexible business structure that provides legal protections to its owners while allowing them to report profits and losses on their personal tax returns. Owners may have a single LLC or multiple; it’s possible for anyone to master LLCs ownership. LLCs are popular among small businesses because they are relatively easy to set up and maintain. It is possible to have several separate LLCs, some for completely different companies and some for different functions or series within a larger parent LLC. 

When forming multiple LLCs, it is important to follow these rules: 

• Keep separate records: It’s important that LLC owners keep separate financial records for each LLC, even if they are owned by the same individuals, umbrella LLC, or entity. This includes separate bank accounts from your own bank account. This will help ensure that the LLCs are treated as separate entities for tax and legal purposes. This means when you file tax returns, each tax treatment and tax return should be for the specific entity.
• Avoid conflicts of interest: The umbrella company or parent company of multiple LLCs should avoid any conflicts of interest between the separate LLCs. This means not using one LLC’s resources, bank accounts, or business assets for the benefit of another, and not making decisions that would harm one LLC to benefit another. In this instance, it may be helpful to create a master LLC to ensure there is no commingling of resources or assets.
• Maintain proper governance: Each traditional or series LLC consists of its own operating agreement and should be managed in accordance with that agreement. Separate LLCs should avoid commingling assets or funds between LLCs, as this could undermine the protection provided by the LLC structure. Series LLC laws may be different from state to state. 
• Stay compliant with state and federal laws: At LLC formation owners should ensure that each series LLC structure is properly registered with the state and complies with any applicable state and federal laws, such as tax laws, employment laws, and regulations specific to the industry in which the LLC operates. This will ensure the owner is not personally liable for any future issues. 
• Consider using a holding company: Depending on the specific circumstances, it may be beneficial to use a holding company to own multiple LLCs. A holding company is a separate entity that owns and manages other companies and can provide additional protection and tax benefits to the series LLC functions. Some refer to this as an umbrella LLC. However, this approach should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, as it may not be the best fit for all situations.

What is a Series LLC?

A Series LLC is a special type of business formation that allows a business to create separate “series” or cells, each with its own assets, liabilities, and members. Each series operates independently but is protected by the liability shield of the overall LLC, making it a popular option for real estate investors and businesses with multiple ventures. The Series LLC is a distinct type and is a separate LLC from any other that the parent LLC may own. The LLC agreement will be designed to have multiple “series” or cells, each with its own assets, liabilities, and members. Each series in a Series LLC can operate independently of the others and have different managers, assets, and members. However, it’s important to note that while each series in a Series LLC is separate, the overall Series LLC remains a single legal entity. Not all states permit series LLCs so it is important to look into the rules for each state. This type of structure protects only the assets for the particular business as listed on the tax return and does not also offer legal protection or membership interests for those that are outside the specific series.

The recognition of Series LLCs by foreign entities will depend on the specific laws and regulations of each country. Those that do recognize will have the same limited liability protections, you’ll pay formation fees as the business owner and ensure separate assets for each LLC. It’s important to research the laws of any foreign country where you plan to operate your Series LLC to determine whether it will be recognized as a valid business entity. In general, some countries may recognize Series LLCs while others may not. Additionally, there may be specific requirements or restrictions that apply to foreign business entities in each country. It’s recommended that you consult with a legal or financial professional with expertise in international business before forming a Series LLC or conducting business operations in foreign countries.

Pros & Cons of a Series LLC

A Series LLC does not necessarily need to have a “master LLC” template, as the formation and structure of a Series LLC can vary depending on the specific needs and goals of the business. However, some businesses may find it helpful to have a parent or “master” LLC that acts as the overarching entity that owns and controls the various series within the Series LLC. This can provide additional protection and organizational structure. If you are considering a Series LLC, it may be helpful to consult with a legal or financial professional to determine the best structure for your specific needs. Series LLC offers more protection and tax flexibility but has more complex management requirements.

Pros

One key feature of a Series LLC is that it allows a business to create multiple “series” or cells, each with its own assets, liabilities, and members. This can provide more protection for each series, as the assets of one series are typically shielded from the liabilities of the other series. Another advantage of a Series LLC is its tax flexibility, as each series can elect to be taxed as one entity or as part of the overall company.

Cons

A Series LLC may have more complex management requirements, as each series can have its own management structure and business operations. Additionally, Series LLCs are not recognized in all states, which could limit their use in certain regions. Finally, the additional complexity of a Series LLC may lead to higher legal and administrative costs.

Series LLC Vs LLC: What’s The Differences?

The main differences between traditional and series LLCs are:

• Liability protection: A series LLC business structure offers separate protection for each series or cell, while a regular LLC offers protection for the company as a whole.
• Tax implications: A series LLC business structure may have more flexibility in terms of tax planning, as each series can elect to be taxed as one entity or as part of the overall company. A traditional or series LLCs are taxed as a pass-through entity.
• Management requirements: A Series LLC may have more complex management requirements, as each series can have its own management structure and business operations. The traditional form has a more straightforward management structure.

Series LLC Vs LLC: What’s The Similarities?

Some similarities between traditional and series LLCs include:

• Formation process: Both entities are formed by filing the necessary documents with the state in which the business will be located.
• Limited liability protection: Both entities offer limited protection to their owners or members, which means that personal assets are typically protected from business debts and lawsuits.
• Maintenance requirements: Both entities are required to follow certain maintenance requirements, such as filing annual reports and paying state fees, to remain in good standing with the state.

Should You Form a Traditional or a Series LLC?

The decision to form traditional or series LLCs will depend on your specific business needs and goals. If you have multiple ventures or assets that you want to keep separate and protected, a Series LLC may be the better option. However, if you want a simpler management structure and don’t require multiple series, a regular LLC may be the more straightforward choice. It’s important to consult with a legal or financial professional to determine which option is best for your specific situation.

Which States Allow Series LLC Formations?

The following states have statutes that allow for the formation of Series LLCs: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Nevada, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, and Puerto Rico. However, it’s important to note that the laws and regulations regarding Series LLCs may differ in each state, so it’s important to consult with a legal or financial professional for specific guidance. The Alabama Arkansas Delaware district have specific laws recognizing the formation of these LLCs; some states will not recognize this type of LLC.

How to Form a Series LLC?

Here are five general steps for forming a Series LLC:

Choose a state

First, you’ll need to decide the state for forming a Series LLC in. Not all states recognize Series LLCs, so it’s important to choose a state that does. You’ll pay state filing fees for the state of formation.

File Articles of Organization

When forming a Series LLC you’ll need to file Articles of Organization with the state’s Secretary of State to officially form your Series LLC. This will typically involve paying a filing fee and providing basic information about your business.

Draft an Operating Agreement

When forming a series LLC, you’ll need to draft an Operating Agreement that outlines the specific terms of each series, including management structure, asset allocation, and distribution of profits and losses.

Register each series

You’ll need to register each series with the state’s Secretary of State by filing a Certificate of Designation for each series. This will typically involve paying a filing fee and providing basic information about the series.

Maintain separate records

Finally, it’s important to maintain separate records for each series, including financial statements, tax returns, and other important documents. This will help ensure that each series is treated as a separate entity for liability and tax purposes.

The Top 2 LLC Services

ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness was founded in 2017 and bills itself as a one-stop shop for small company preparation. The platform helps small companies launch, operate, and grow the company, and includes access to many services that simplify the set-up and launch process, It is automated, which means the owner can quickly and efficiently file needed paperwork. 

Through ZenBusiness you can search for available trade names, and DBA names, create articles of incorporation, find out the needed documentation for your state and federal filings and registrations, obtain an EIN, build the company’s web presence through domain names, email, and domain privacy protection. 

ZenBusiness offers three tiers for members ranging from $0/year to $349/year. For each tier there are additional charges that will not be included; these include an EIN filing charge (one time, $99), a worry-free guarantee service ($129 per year), and a 25% discount on agent services, any state filing fees. 

However, if you only need help with specific issues, ZenBusiness does offer an a la carte service. For customer service, ZenBusiness offers phone, email, and live chat support. Email support is offered at all times. Phone customer service is offered Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM-7:00 PM Central Time. Customer service phone number: (512) 237-7349. Live chat services operate during the same time frame as phone services and can be accessed through ZenBusiness’ website. 

Northwest

Northwest is primarily a Registered Agent Service but their suite of tools does offer additional business services at a reasonable price. The main difference between Northwest and similar legal business entities is that Northwest only offers one paid plan for services. The initial cost is $39 to file the LLC paperwork; all other charges are due as per your state’s regulations. There is a separate option, called Pay In Full. With this option, which costs $225, Northwest will file the LLC, and provide agent services for one year, however, all other charges from state fees, etc., will still apply. 

Northwest will scan up to five regular documents each year for free; after the initial five there is a charge for additional services. This is also different from other providers as many will only scan and send legal documents. 

Northwest also has a strict no-data-selling policy and will provide pricing changes in advance. Northwest also offers the ability to pay by the month, with an auto-renew option. 

Final Thoughts

The article discusses the differences between Series LLCs and traditional LLCs. It explains that Series LLCs offer personal asset protection, tax flexibility, and complex management requirements for each series, while traditional LLCs offer more straightforward management structures. The similarities between both structures include the formation process, legal protections, and maintenance requirements. The decision to choose a Series LLC or a traditional LLC depends on the specific needs and goals of the business. It is crucial to consult with legal or financial professionals for guidance on the formation process of a Series LLC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)