Delaware compliance blueprint for founders

Delaware entities face annual state compliance obligations: Corporations must file an Annual Report and pay Franchise Tax by March 1, while LLCs/LPs/GPs pay an annual tax (often $300) by June 1. All entities must maintain a Delaware-licensed Registered Agent.

Non-compliance can lead to loss of good standing or administrative voiding. Federally, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS online after forming your entity.

A key change as of March 26, 2025, is that U.S. domestic entities are now exempt from FinCEN's Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting. Only foreign entities registered to do business in the U.S. are required to file BOI reports, with specific deadlines.

FinCEN will not enforce BOI penalties against domestic companies while this interim rule is in effect. Additionally, founders should maintain corporate governance records, separate bank accounts, and consider foreign qualification if operating outside Delaware.

Delaware entities face annual state compliance obligations: Corporations must file an Annual Report and pay Franchise Tax by March 1, while LLCs/LPs/GPs pay an annual tax (often $300) by June 1. All entities must maintain a Delaware-licensed Registered Agent.

Non-compliance can lead to loss of good standing or administrative voiding. Federally, obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS online after forming your entity.

A key change as of March 26, 2025, is that U.S. domestic entities are now exempt from FinCEN's Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting. Only foreign entities registered to do business in the U.S. are required to file BOI reports, with specific deadlines.

FinCEN will not enforce BOI penalties against domestic companies while this interim rule is in effect. Additionally, founders should maintain corporate governance records, separate bank accounts, and consider foreign qualification if operating outside Delaware.