Shut Down Your Business
Without Missing a Single Step
Every form. Every fee. Every deadline. Every state. The only shutdown guide that covers the complete dissolution process from first vote to final filing.
Quick Answer
To shut down a business in the US, you must: (1) vote to dissolve, (2) file dissolution paperwork with your state's Secretary of State, (3) obtain tax clearance if required, (4) notify creditors, (5) file final tax returns, and (6) cancel licenses and permits. Requirements, forms, and fees vary by state. Select your state below for the exact process.
How Business Shutdown Works
Find Your State
Select your state below. We show you the exact forms, fees, and steps required by your Secretary of State.
Follow the Checklist
Our free guide covers every step. Need more detail? The paid guide includes templates, timelines, and form-filling instructions.
Or Let Us Handle It
Our Shutdown Agent service handles every filing, notification, and deadline for a flat $1,000. You sign, we execute.
Choose Your State
Click any state for the complete shutdown guide
Simple, Transparent Pricing
Free guides for every state. Paid options for when you need more.
Free State Guide
Essential shutdown steps for any state.
- Step-by-step overview
- Key forms identified
- Fee schedule
- Official website links
- Basic timeline
Detailed Guide
Complete playbook for your specific state.
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Form-by-form instructions
- Notification letter templates
- Tax clearance walkthrough
- Post-dissolution checklist
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Expedited filing guide
Shutdown Agent
We handle everything. You just sign.
- Everything in Detailed Guide, plus:
- Complete filing execution
- Tax clearance coordination
- Creditor notifications sent
- IRS EIN closure
- License cancellations
- 90-day post-shutdown monitoring
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to dissolve a business?
Filing fees range from $0 (some states) to $250+. Most states charge between $25-$100 for LLC dissolution and $25-$150 for corporate dissolution. Our state guides include the exact fee for your state and entity type.
How long does it take to shut down a business?
The filing itself typically processes in 1-10 business days. However, the full shutdown process (including tax clearance, creditor notifications, and final filings) can take 90 days to 6 months depending on your state and situation.
Do I need tax clearance to dissolve my business?
About half of US states require tax clearance before they will process your dissolution. This means you must file all outstanding returns and pay any taxes owed. States like New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts require it. States like Delaware and Wyoming do not.
What happens if I just stop operating without formally dissolving?
Bad things. Most states will continue to charge annual report fees, franchise taxes, and penalties. You may also remain personally liable for the business. The state may eventually administratively dissolve the entity, but you'll owe all accumulated fees and penalties. Always formally dissolve.
Can I dissolve a business that owes money?
Yes, but you must follow your state's wind-down procedures. This typically involves notifying known creditors, publishing notice to unknown creditors (in some states), and distributing remaining assets according to priority. Debts don't disappear - they may pass to members/shareholders.
Ready to Close Your Business?
Don't let paperwork, penalties, and missed deadlines turn a simple shutdown into a legal headache. Get it done right.