Forming an LLC in Hawaii costs $50 to file with the state. Ongoing, you file: Annual report ($15), anniversary quarter. Cheap fees; the General Excise Tax is a gross-receipts style tax.
Hawaii LLC at a glance
| State filing fee | $50 |
| Processing time | ~1-2 weeks; expedited available |
| Annual/biennial report | Annual report ($15), anniversary quarter |
| Franchise / annual tax | None |
| State income tax | Yes |
| State sales tax | 4% (GET) |
| Sales-tax economic nexus | $100,000 or 200 transactions |
| Registered agent | Required (in-state address) |
| Publication requirement | No |
| Anonymous ownership | Not available (ownership is on record) |
Research snapshot last checked 2026-07-21. Fees and deadlines change - confirm on the Hawaii Secretary of State and tax authority before filing.
Does Hawaii fit your situation?
Hawaii puts ownership on the public record, so it is not the choice if you need anonymity. It levies a state income tax. Cheap fees; the General Excise Tax is a gross-receipts style tax.
If you do not live or operate in Hawaii, remember that forming here while working elsewhere can create a second state registration (foreign qualification) and a second set of fees. For most non-residents the decision comes down to banking acceptance and total cost - see the best-state comparison.
Steps to form in Hawaii
- Check name availability and appoint a Hawaii registered agent.
- File the Articles of Organization ($50) with the state.
- Get an EIN from the IRS (Form SS-4 by fax or phone if you have no SSN).
- Confirm banking and payment eligibility for your residence country.
- Put the report on a calendar: Annual report ($15), anniversary quarter.
Generate your Hawaii deadline calendar · Check your US tax obligations
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
How much does an LLC cost in Hawaii?
The state filing fee is $50. Ongoing you file annual report ($15), anniversary quarter. There is no separate franchise tax.
Does Hawaii require an annual report?
Yes: Annual report ($15), anniversary quarter.
Is Hawaii a good state for a non-resident LLC?
Cheap fees; the General Excise Tax is a gross-receipts style tax. Base the decision on where you actually operate, banking acceptance and total cost, not only the filing fee.