Without this document, you can’t form or file a company with limited liability. It can help you to ensure LLC compliance, something that often varies from state to state. An articles of organization document is also necessary to make your LLC official. When forming an LLC in the state of your choice, you need to file articles of organization to provide the state government with basic information about your company. 

Filing this document makes your LLC an official entity. Since different states have different regulations relating to how to create this document and where you may file an LLC, let’s explore what this document is, the information it must contain, and how to file it.

Articles of organization defined

Forming an LLC requires a business owner to prepare the necessary documents (articles of organization) with the state secretary. This document outlines essential information about your business organization and ensures that your company becomes an official entity with publicly available records.

If or when your state wants to check your business information, the government will do so by accessing your public record and your articles of organization. Each state has specific requirements regarding the information that your public record should contain. 

The most common details include:

The state secretary is in charge of reviewing the articles of organization and may reject a document in certain situations. The most common reasons for rejection are issues with the registered name of the LLC. 

Getting approval for your LLC depends on the Secretary of State. Thankfully, it’s possible to hire professional incorporating services to expedite the process. 

Once your documents receive approval, you can proceed to file them with the state and make your LLC officially legal.

Why are they necessary?

First, you can’t make your LLC legitimate in the eyes of the law without articles of organization. LLC owners and the company have their own legal identity. If any issues arise with your LLC, articles of organization can provide the necessary legal protection. 

Your contracts, debt, bank accounts, assets, and everything else related to your LLC don’t legally exist until you create and file this legal document and receive the state’s approval. 

The LLC business model offers several advantages, such as:

Your LLC is not legal without articles of organization. It doesn’t legally exist without a public record that proves its existence, contract details, company information, and name. Governments and courts rely on articles of organization to access the address where they can send legal notices and lawsuits regarding the company. 

Many counties have specific zoning and business licensing requirements. Your LLC must comply with the specific regulations of the state and county in which you plan to conduct your business. 

These requirements also vary from industry to industry. Some industries have stricter rules and regulations than others. You can hire a lawyer to help you with the formation process or choose an LLC service to do it for you.

Articles of organization templates

The internet is an abundant source for free articles of organization templates. Depending on the needs of the kind of LLC that you wish to form, you can choose an appropriate template. 

Although each state specifies unique LLC requirements, all templates should include your LLC’s name, information about your registered agent, and a valid signature. All article numbers in templates should use roman numerals. 

A template should include the following eight elements:

Choose a free template and make sure that you provide detailed and accurate information when completing the document. Free services will create your document automatically. 

You can choose the document format that you prefer (PDF or Word). You can also modify your document if need be.

Here is an example of the article of organization template for the state of California:

What information is required?

Although information requirements vary from state to state, here’s a list of the most common details that you should include in your LLC articles of organization:

The options for filing articles of organization vary from state to state. The most common way is to access an online business portal where you can access the entire online process. 

Some states require that you download paper forms, fill out the details, and file your documents in person, by fax, or by mail.

How to file

Filing your LLC articles of organizations requires completing four steps. Let’s quickly review them.

Go to your secretary of state’s website

You can find all of the filing requirements by visiting your secretary of state’s website. Look for the following information:

• LLC articles of organization form;
• The option to file your LLC form online; and
• The filing fee.

Collect all of the necessary information about the LLC

Collecting all of the necessary documentation before filing improves your chance of approval. Here’s a list of essential information that most states require:

Give the required answers to the state

Your state will require you to disclose additional details about your LLC, such as organizational and operational information. 

Although this too may vary from state to state, here are some common examples of what the state may ask:

Submit your forms

Once the complete filing information is ready, submit your LLC forms to the state’s office. Depending on your state’s preference, you can either do it online or send your paperwork in the mail.

Filing fees

The cost of filing your articles of organization will vary from state to state. It typically ranges between $40–$200. 

Kentucky, Arkansas, Arizona, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Colorado are some of the states with the cheapest filing fees ($40–$50). 

Some states, like Arizona, don’t have a renewal fee, while states like Colorado and Hawaii charge as little as $10–$15 for renewal.

Conclusion

After you file your LLC articles of organization, wait for your state office to review your documentation. 

If everything goes well, you should soon receive your certification of formation and can then file for an IRS employer identification number (EIN). 

This number is the main requirement for opening a business bank account for your LLC. For more information about LLC formation requirements, visit your secretary of state’s website.

The post What Are LLC Articles of Organization? appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

Potential lawsuits are one of the biggest reasons that so many business owners choose to hide their ownership information. Forming an anonymous company is also an excellent way to protect your business assets. 

Today, the internet is swarming with online service providers that offer incorporation within certain states such as Delaware, Nevada, Wyoming, and New Mexico. These states value the privacy of business owners above anything else. 

To form an anonymous limited liability company (LLC), you won’t be required to disclose members, nor do you have to provide the identities of company shareholders. Forming an anonymous LLC in these states also protects your business operations from creditors, be they corporate creditors or LLC. 

There’s little difference between an anonymous and a regular LLC. Let’s dive deeper into what an anonymous LLC is, how it differs from the regular LLC model, and what it takes to form one.

How are anonymous LLCs different from standard LLCs?

An anonymous LLC is the same as any other LLC but with one difference – the names of the LLC members are not publicly available. The state that you register your LLC in protects the identities of shareholders. 

Business owners can choose to remain anonymous for several different reasons:

An anonymous LLC also provides an additional benefit for the owner – they can keep their professional and private life separate. It also allows them to purchase items anonymously that the public can’t link to them personally.

Pros and cons of forming an anonymous LLC

Pros

Cons

While an anonymous LLC provides a number of advantages for business owners, there are also some downsides to keep in mind:

What are the anonymous LLC states? 

Business owners aren’t required to disclose the identities of the managers, members, or owners when creating an anonymous LLC in these states. 

Let’s quickly review some key information about forming an anonymous LLC in these states.

Nevada anonymous LLC

Nevada is an excellent state for protecting your business assets. It prevents creditors from accessing your corporate records. 

Here are some positive facts to keep in mind when forming an anonymous LLC in Nevada:

Cons:

New Mexico LLC anonymity

Unlike Nevada, Wyoming, and Delaware, New Mexico is the only state that doesn’t require business owners to disclose the identities of members, managers, and owners or any additional annual reports. 

Some other benefits include:

Cons:

Wyoming LLC anonymity

With high levels of privacy, security, and asset protection, Wyoming is a safe haven for those looking for the best debtor-friendly laws. If you form an anonymous LLC in Wyoming, you won’t have to worry about creditors. 

Pros:

Cons:

Delaware LLC anonymity

Even though businesses must pay some pretty hefty fees and taxes, Delaware provides the highest levels of privacy, security, and asset protection for LLC owners. The state offers access to the Court of Chancery, which handles all disputes regarding the internal affairs of LLCs. 

Business owners also don’t need to disclose the names and identities of members, managers, and shareholders or their personal details on any public documents. 

Pros:

Cons:

Wyoming and Delaware offer the advantage of no corporate income tax, while New Mexico doesn’t collect LLC information, nor does it have annual report fees or requirements.

Steps for forming an anonymous LLC 

Now that you have some basic knowledge of what an anonymous LLC is, how it works, and what it offers, let’s talk about the steps for forming an anonymous LLC

Step 1: Figure out a name for your anonymous LLC 

Your LLC journey to anonymity starts with choosing the right name for your company.

Since Delaware is the best place to form an anonymous LLC, we’ll use that state as an example. Delaware Code 18-102 regulates the naming of LLCs in the state. 

The name of your LLC has to be unique and different from any other active and registered LLC name found in the Delaware Department of State. The name must include the LLC term. According to the state code, LLC owners aren’t allowed to use any term in the name that differs from the type of business.  

You can also reserve your preferred name with the state before completing the registration process. You can either do it by sending an application to the Delaware Division of Corporations or online.

Step 2: Find a registered agent 

A registered agent plays a vital role in keeping your LLC anonymous. They are the initial recipients of all business communications and official notices sent to your LLC. 

A registered agent is in charge of forwarding all documents and communications to your LLC and signs all documents on your behalf, thus keeping your identity anonymous.

Step 3: Gather all of the required documentation 

To form an anonymous LLC in Delaware, you’ll need to collect all of the required paperwork and file the documentation with the state. All registrants must have the LLC’s Certificate of Formation ready for presentation in a printed format.

You can find the required printed form on the official website of the Department of State. Simply visit the site, find the form, fill out the necessary information, print it, and send it along with a filing memo to the Delaware Division of Corporation.

Step 4: File it with the specific state authorities 

Once you have all of the required documentation, file it with the state authorities of your choosing. Every state has a filing fee:

Forming an LLC outside of Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada, and New Mexico 

If you don’t wish to form an anonymous LLC in the states that we mentioned above, it’s possible to do it in other states.

However, since other states don’t allow the level of anonymity you require, the formation will involve some extra steps. 

Making your LLC ownership private requires you to form a single-member LLC in any of the four states on our list and one in your home state. You’ll need to hire a business attorney or an LLC formation service to help you with compliance by drafting an operating agreement. 

Your registered agent will use their own physical address to enter your LLC into the register. When someone tries to find out who the owner is, all they’ll get is another LLC. 

If you need help with forming an LLC in your state, you can find all the necessary information here. 

Conclusion

If you live in Wyoming, New Mexico, Nevada, or Delaware, you can deal directly with an anonymous company with limited liability. You can also do this in other states, but that requires completing a few extra steps since other states don’t allow anonymous LLC owners. 

While this type of LLC provides a certain level of privacy, the anonymity you receive only protects your information from the public. 

Financial and government institutions (IRS and banks) will still know who the owner of the LLC is. Even as an anonymous owner of an LLC, you’re required to pay federal or state taxes when they are due. 

The post What is an Anonymous LLC and How to Form One appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

Of course, you must also be prepared to take on significant business and personal risks, especially if you are in a sole proprietorship. 

If you wish to minimize your financial liability while still running your own business, your best course of action would be to form a multi-member Limited Liability Company (MMLLC). 

While not a partnership and still far from a corporation, an LLC introduces the benefits of both situations while allowing you to remain your own boss. 

Discover what a multi-member LLC is, become familiarized with the main pros and cons, and learn the steps that you need to take to form one. 

Multi-member LLC explained 

A multi-member LLC is a standard limited liability company with at least two or more owners. Like a typical LLC, an MMLLC (as its name suggests) offers limited liability to its owners – if the business incurs any debts or losses, the owners’ personal assets won’t be harmed. Any claimants can solely collect against the company’s assets, not the owners’. 

In most instances, the owners’ financial liability is no larger than their investment in the company. 

How are multi-member LLCs and single-member LLCs different?

The most evident difference between LLCs and MMLLCs is simply the number of owners – a standard LLC has just one, while MMLLCs have multiple. 

Business owners commonly list their spouses or family members as owners to establish this specific business structure, and the limited liability aspect protects them all.

However, there’s more that distinguishes an LLC from an MMLLC. 

In LLCs, management responsibilities are not shared – you act as both the owner and the manager. In an MMLLC, you and your partner(s) need to decide whether the business will be member-managed (everyone makes management decisions together) or manager-managed (one of the owners or a third party is responsible for company management). 

Taxation is another key difference. 

Single-member LLCs are taxed as sole proprietorships unless you make a different request. You wouldn’t need to file additional forms or go through any additional paperwork – you’d report all profits and losses with your personal tax returns. 

On the other hand, multi-member LLCs are taxed as general partnerships unless you specify differently, and you’d need to file Schedule K-1 and additional tax forms. 

When do you need an MMLC? 

If you’re considering establishing a business with a friend or family member, it’s in your best interests to form a multi-member LLC. Otherwise, you would automatically be regarded as a general partnership, which brings many of the same risks as a sole proprietorship. 

Should your general partnership fail to pay off its debts, collectors can go after you and your partner’s personal assets, including homes, cars, valuable items, and other property. 

As mentioned above, you can enjoy greater protection with an MMLLC. Debt collectors can only go after the business assets and hold you financially responsible for a limited sum. 

Pros and cons of multi-member LLC

Multi-member LLCs have several unique advantages that you can enjoy: 

Like any other business entity, a multi-member LLC is not perfect. It also has a few drawbacks that you should be aware of before you start your MMLLC: 

A multi-member LLC also doesn’t offer complete protection. If you (or your partners) misuse business funds, commit fraud, don’t keep all relevant records, or purposefully do something reckless or illegal, you will be held legally and financially responsible. 

Steps for forming a multi-member LLC  

Forming a multi-member LLC can seem like a complicated process at first. However, with the help of a few LLC tools and services and clear step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to easily form your new company. 

Come up with a business name 

Your business name will shape your logo and branding, impact your marketing, and make or break your relationship with leads and clients. With the wrong name, you’ll find it difficult to stand out from competitors and grab the attention of your target market. With the right name, however, the world is your oyster. 

First and foremost, check the LLC naming requirements in your state. The most common requirements are that you cannot use the same name being used by another registered business in your state and must include “LLC” in the name. There might be other requirements and even banned words, so be sure to check them out. 

Once you know the dos and don’ts of naming a business in your state, you can start coming up with suitable names. As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to keep it concise and memorable – something that’s easy to spell and pronounce and that makes sense for your niche. Pay attention to the name abbreviations and ensure that they’re not offensive or unprofessional. 

Get your unique identification number 

Just as everyone in the US needs a social security number (SSN), all businesses need their own unique Employer Identification Number (EIN). Assigned by the IRS, it’s an eight-digit number that identifies your business. 

You’ll need the EIN to file taxes, get tax returns, open business bank accounts, hire employees, and conduct virtually every business process. 

File articles of organization in your state 

As a legal business entity, you’ll need to file articles of organization with your state. Also referred to as certificates of organization or certificates of formation, they’re legal documents that outline the businesses’ members and their duties, responsibilities, powers, liabilities, and all other obligations. 

You’ll find the forms that you’ll need to fill out by visiting the official website of your state’s Secretary of State. 

Create a multi-member LLC operating agreement (mandatory) 

Often confused with articles of organization, a multi-member LLC operating agreement is a distinct form, and you shouldn’t overlook it. Within your operating agreement, you will outline all of your company’s rules, regulations, and provisions. 

While it’s not legally mandatory, this agreement will help you to better manage your business and govern its internal operations.  

Acquire permits and licenses for your business 

Regardless of their unique structure, businesses need appropriate permits and licenses to operate legally. The permits and licenses that you need will depend on your industry and niche. For example, hotels and private practices are entirely different businesses, so they’ll require different permits. 

You can check with your Secretary of State or local city offices to find out precisely what types of permits and licenses you’ll need to open the doors of your multi-member LLC. 

Open a business bank account 

Finally, you’ll need to open a business bank account. The business is considered separate from the owner in a multi-member LLC, so you’ll need separate bank accounts. 

It’s in your best interests to do thorough research and find a local bank that offers the best terms and conditions for your needs. 

Conclusion 

Forming a multi-member LLC might seem complicated at first, but it’s nothing that you can’t accomplish. It offers many benefits, allowing you to run your business as you see fit without risking your or your partner’s personal assets. 

Follow the steps outlined above, and engage in your own multi-member LLC formation without a hitch. 

The post What is a Multi-Member LLC and How to Form One appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

When starting a limited liability company (LLC), this agreement is the foundational factor that points your business organization in the right direction. 

Documenting this agreement is a surefire way to ensure full compliance with the latest business and legal regulations in your state and beyond. 

Read on to find out what an LLC operating agreement is, how it works, and what it should include.

LLC operating agreement defined

A limited liability company is one of the most popular business structures for a variety of US business organizations due to the level of protection from liability that it provides for small businesses.

An LLC operating agreement is an official document that sets a business organization’s terms and conditions according to its members’ unique needs. It outlines the hierarchy for both functional and financial decision-makers. 

Although it’s not mandatory to have this document in most states, it’s a crucial layer of protection for setting up an LLC. 

Each organization member must sign the document and agree to the said terms. It is a legally binding document requiring every business member to adhere to a specific set of rules. This document allows business owners to specify their own rules for managing internal operations and affairs. 

If you don’t draft an LLC operating agreement, your LLC will have to operate according to the default business rules of your state. An LLC operating agreement defines how many members a company has, how it handles taxes, who can sell shares, who can share in profits, and more.

How it works

An LLC operating agreement works by clearly identifying the following elements:

Since it’s a legally binding document, it includes basic information about the owners (members) of an LLC. It also determines how a business should handle specific procedures, including the organization’s tax treatment. 

We can define LLC operating agreements as legal contracts between/among business owners or members of multi-member companies. These contracts clearly outline the things that every member can or can’t do and lays down guidelines for handling certain vital operations. 

A business can choose to keep an agreement confidential or public by providing proof of an existing document. If any disputes arise, members reserve the right to make changes and updates to the existing LLC operating agreements. 

What should it include?

The general LLC operating agreement format includes the following elements:

This document should also lay out the guidelines and definitions of specific terms in the operating agreement. 

Finally, a legal contract should outline the purpose of the company, its location, the period that it intends to operate, preferable taxation options, optional member management, and a statement of its intent to form. 

A legal contract such as an LLC operating agreement offers you control, protection, and freedom to manage your business operations however you see fit.

Operating agreement sections

You should include six essential sections in an LLC operating agreement. 

Let’s quickly review all of them.

1. Organization

The first section of an LLC operating agreement should contain basic information about the business organization. It defines and solidifies the most basic and critical premises and decisions. 

Typically, this includes the official name of your LLC, its location or place of operation, its duration, the ID of the company’s dedicated registered agent, its statement of purpose, and its management structure.

2. Management and voting

Both managers and members can manage an LLC. If you opt for managers, you should include the appointment of managers in your LLC operating agreement, procedures and terms for manager replacement and removal, responsibilities and duties, and the frequency and nature of voting and meeting procedures. 

An LLC operating agreement also determines how members may vote. Typically, their voting rights match their percentage interests. You can use capital accounts, commitments, and contributions to determine voting and veto rights.

3. Capital contributions

Each member receives a capital account. Their initial capital contributions determine their initial percentage interests. They can provide a capital contribution to the LLC through a promissory note, services rendered, property, or cash. 

If a member decides to contribute something other than cash, other members reserve the right to negotiate the value of such capital contribution.

An LLC operating agreement also addresses the number of initial capital contributions and the need for potential future capital calls.

4. Distributions

An LLC operating agreement should set the default rule of proportionate allocation of distributions, losses, and profits among eligible members, providing them with specific economic rights to alter the allocation rules.

5. Membership changes

Members come and go, and changes in membership can be quite frequent among LLCs. That’s why this section of an LLC operating agreement determines the procedure for handling membership changes such as:

6. Dissolution

This section reflects the best course of action for dissolving the LLC by determining the circumstances for dissolution and how to proceed with the organization’s affairs and assets.

Different types

There are four main types of LLC operating agreements. We’ll briefly explain all of them.

Protected series LLC

You can manage multiple assets or properties under one unified LLC. The best example is the Delaware series LLCs. If you form a series LLC in Delaware, you have the option to separate each asset or entity, or property. 

The protected series LLC allows you to treat each property or asset as a separate entity.

Protected series LLC operating agreements give you the power to divide your LLC into distinct categories. 

Each category gives you the power and freedom to:

There are no series limitations regarding a Delaware series LLC. You also have two options for forming one: registered and protected series.

Multi-member Delaware LLC

A multi-member Delaware LLC is a multi-class business model that allows LLC owners to form LLCs by dividing eligible members into different categories or classes. Owners assign unequal duties and freedom to separate member classes. 

They can also further structure each class into unique groups with variable voting, reporting, economic, and other rights.

A multi-member Delaware LLC structure comes with a multi-class operating agreement that LLC owners can customize to include the basic information on specific members and their designated responsibilities and rights. 

Delaware LLC founders determine specific provisions and guidelines for all of the pertinent LLC particularities such as governance, responsibility, and power, according to the Delaware LLC’s freedom of contract. 

A multi-member Delaware LLC allows you to specify each class that you wish to keep separate in the LLC operating agreement and define each group’s powers, privileges, rights, and the things they’re not allowed to do.

Multi-member LLC

Multi-member LLC operating agreements apply to member-managed and manager-managed limited liability companies.

The first scenario involves situations where members put themselves in charge of all essential LLC operations. They draft the multi-member LLC operating agreement that allows them to make decisions by voting according to their share of interests or per member.

This LLC operating agreement further allows them to make various customizations to the document by assigning unique, specific, or additional rights and responsibilities to each member. 

They can also require specific members to accept certain duties and rights, as long as they don’t go against public policy or are illegal.

In manager-managed LLC scenarios, the operating agreement clearly defines the leader or leaders of the company operations. 

The existing members reserve the right to select third-party managers who would run the company. However, these managers can’t be members themselves. Members are at liberty to pose any limitations on the selected managers and contract, appoint, or elect a manager for these positions.

Single-member LLC

A single-member LLC business structure doesn’t require an owner to draft a legally binding operating agreement. Still, most professionals advise you to sign and date this document, especially if you’re the owner (primary member). 

There are guidelines and provisions that the primary member should include in a single-member LLC legal contract to ensure protection against any liability beyond what the liability protection state code already outlines. 

A single-member LLC operating agreement is beneficial when the primary member dies or becomes incapable of operating the LLC.

Conclusion

An LLC operating agreement benefits your company in many ways. It protects your business operations against liabilities, ensures your status as a company, and limits the personal liability of your members. 

It provides the foundation for fortifying central agreements between owners and members and sets the terms for the division of compensation, ownership, duties, rights, and more. 

The LLC operating agreement also allows leaders to define vital business processes clearly and ensures full compliance with the state laws and regulations. 

Finally, drafting an LLC operating agreement is a surefire way to add legitimacy to your company and depict your business as authoritative and trustworthy.

The post What Is an LLC Operating Agreement? Different Types appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

Starting this type of company requires specific actions and requires you to proceed through several stages. 

Here at Firstsiteguide, we have done thorough research about how to properly form an LLC. Below is everything that you need to do to create your first LLC.

How to Start an LLC in 7 Specific Steps

• Step #1: Choose your state 
• Step #2: Determine the name of your LLC
• Step #3: Find a registered agent 
• Step #4: Find the article of organization form for your state 
• Step #5: Fill out the form
• Step #6: Create your operating agreement 
• Step #7: Get your EIN from the IRS 

Step #1: Choose your state 

This first step toward forming an LLC is to choose the home state. While this might sound like an easy step to complete, you should still take it seriously.

Choosing the right state to form an LLC is crucial because it can impact the total costs of creating an LLC.

Every state in the US is within its rights to require different fees from future LLC members. For instance, filing fees for starting an LLC in Kentucky are only $40, while they are $500 in Massachusetts. 

Different states can also have unique company naming requirements and forms which you must understand before taking any concrete steps.

Step #2: Determine the name of your LLC

The name of your LLC should be short and easy to remember. It should make an impression on  potential future business partners and consumers. While you are focusing on finding something catchy that will be easy to market across all channels, you also keep something else in mind.

There are specific state law requirements regarding LLC names. The most important one to know is that you cannot use a name that another business in the state is currently using. You will also find many states prohibiting some words that might describe the type of business that you are trying to form.

Additionally, in many states, you must include some form of “LLC” in your business name. The safest approach is to first examine the LLC naming requirements of the home state that you have chosen. 

Step #3: Find a registered agent 

While naming requirements and fees may vary from state to state, each state does require that an LLC have a registered agent. This person will receive important documents on behalf of your LLC. 

A registered agent can be a person in charge of an LLC, one of your employees, or yourself. You can choose a registered agent service provider if you prefer to have a professional handle it. However, that choice will come with a fee. 

There are specific requirements that a person or a service provider has to meet to be a registered agent for your LLC:

Step #4: Find the article of organization form for your state 

Next, you have to find the article of organization form that your state requires. This is a must-do because an LLC is a legal entity, and you must file relevant documentation with the state agency, most often the Secretary of State. 

While you will find most of the information referring to this document as an “article of organization,” some states use “certificate of formation.”

Visit the official website of the Secretary of State in your state and find the correct form.

Here is an example of the article of organization form for the state of New York:

Step #5: Fill out the form

Now that you have a copy of the articles of organization form, you are ready to fill it out. It may differ from state to state, but generally speaking, you will have to provide the following details:

All LLC members have to sign this form before you can file it. Some states have additional requirements. For instance, if you are starting an LLC in New York, you will have to go public about your intentions to register an LLC and publish it in a newspaper before submitting the article of organization form. 

Again, visit the relevant Secretary of State’s official website to find all requirements to ensure that your application doesn’t get rejected on a technicality. 

Submit the form to the state 

Your form is now filled out, and you’ve signed it. Next, you need to file it. Before you do that, you should do one final check. Make sure that you’ve provided all requested information and that you didn’t make any spelling errors.

You can now pay a filing fee per your state’s requirements and then submit the form. The Secretary of State’s website will also provide you with an address to submit the form. 

Step #6: Create your operating agreement 

Every LLC has to operate on some plan. This plan is called an operating agreement. It outlines details about the rights and duties of the LLC members including managerial, legal, and financial aspects. Putting your LLC’s operations in writing can help to keep you on the right track. It’s also a legal requirement in some states.

You have two options if you don’t know how to create your operating agreement. You can look for a free template online or hire an attorney specializing in LLC operating agreements. 

Step #7: Get your EIN from the IRS 

All individuals in the US have a Social Security Number (SSN). Its corporate equivalent is an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Other terms for EIN are Federal Tax Identification Number (FTIN) and Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).

Getting your EIN is essential because you won’t be able to open a business bank account or hire employees without it. 

The good news is that you can obtain the EIN for free from the official IRS website, where you can find an online application form. Since you need the date of business formation to request your EIN, you should wait to form your LLC before getting an EIN from the IRS.

File for your foreign qualification (if needed)

If you form your LLC in one state and plan to conduct business in another, you must file for your foreign qualification. Registering a foreign LLC is necessary when operating in a state other than the LLC’s formation state. Your LLC, in this case, is a foreign business entity. 

The process is quite similar to the previous one of filling out and filing the article of organization form:

Conclusion 

If you complete all of these steps, you can start an LLC hassle-free. Since every state in the US has unique requirements and fees, the most vital step is to visit the Secretary of State’s website of the state where you are forming your LLC. 

The site will provide you with all of the necessary information, including the article of organization form, to help you to streamline starting your LLC. 

The post How to Start an LLC appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

In this article, we will explain what a Foreign LLC is, how it works, and the pros and cons of using this type of company. We will also provide steps about how to register a Foreign LLC in the United States.

Foreign limited liability company (LLC) definition

A Foreign LLC is a limited liability company that is registered in one state but conducts business in another.

Foreign LLCs are also known as out-of-state LLCs or multi-state LLCs since this type of company is often used by businesses that have operations in multiple states.

The requirements for conducting business in another state vary from state to state, but there are some common activities that would trigger the need to register your Foreign LLC in another state.

Here are some examples:

If you’re not sure if you need to register your Foreign LLC in another state, we recommend consulting with an attorney or accountant who is familiar with business law in your state.

Main reasons to consider filing as a Foreign LLC

There are a few reasons to consider filing as a Foreign LLC:

Possible penalties for not registering a Foreign LLC 

If you are doing business in a state without registering as a Foreign LLC, you may be subject to penalties.

You could be required to pay a fine for operating without a Foreign LLC. Also, if you are sued, you may not be protected by the limited liability status of an LLC since you did not register as a Foreign LLC.

Pros and cons of a foreign limited liability company

Like any business structure, there are pros and cons to Foreign LLCs that you should consider before making a decision.

The costs of registering or qualifying a Foreign LLC

Keep in mind that costs to register a Foreign LLC vary from state to state. Typically, the filing fee is a couple of hundred dollars, but it ranges from $50 in Hawaii to $750 in South Dakota.

In some states, there may also be an annual registration or report fee.

Foreign LLCs are also required to maintain a registered agent in the state where they are conducting business. A registered agent is a person or company that agrees to receive legal documents on behalf of the Foreign LLC.

There are numerous registered agent services available on the internet for a fee.

How to register a Foreign LLC

Now that we’ve gone over the definition, purpose, and requirements of Foreign LLCs, let’s examine how to actually register one.

The process of registering a Foreign LLC is fairly simple and can be done online with just a few clicks. Here are the common steps to register a Foreign LLC:

Additionally, some states may require a copy of the original Certificate of Good Standing, a Certificate of Existence, or a Certificate of Status from the state where you originally started your LLC.

Here is an example of the application to register a Foreign LLC in the state of California with the filing fee of $70 and their requirement to submit the Certificate of Good Standing:

And here is another example of the application to register a Foreign LLC in the state of Utah with the same filing fee of $70:

Once a Foreign LLC has been registered and qualified to do business in a state, it can begin operating.

Conclusion

Foreign LLCs are a great way to protect your personal assets while doing business in another state.

While Foreign LLCs can be more expensive to set up and maintain than other business structures, they offer limited liability protection for owners and can be managed by a single owner or multiple owners.

If you are doing business in another state, be sure to register as a Foreign LLC to avoid penalties.

The post How to Register a Foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC) appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

A business entity is commonly known as a business structure. It affects many things, including the paperwork that you need to prepare and file, your ability to withdraw cash, any personal liability, and how much you pay in taxes. 

Among several options to choose from is an LLC. Considering how important it is to choose the right business structure, we wanted to help you learn all there is to know about an LLC. 

Here are several key things that you need to know before deciding whether an LLC is the right option for your future company.

Limited liability company definition 

LLC is an acronym for “Limited Liability Company”. Here is the definition of an LLC:

As you can see, the definition of LLC doesn’t tell you much unless you already understand partnerships and the business structure of corporations, and exactly which of their features an LLC combines. 

Let’s examine some details.

From the corporation business entity side, LLC takes limited liability for owners if the business fails due to debts and claims. And, from the partnership business entity side, it takes taxation practices. An LLC business’s profits are viewed as the owners’ personal income and are taxed as such (more on LLC taxes below). 

How it works

The best way to understand a business structure is to see how it works. LLC operates on an operating agreement.

The operating agreement includes various details about the company:

An LLC can operate with two structures – ownership and management structures. 

The most important feature of an LLC to understand is limited liability. LLC provides additional protection to members from personal liability. If an LLC company has accumulated a number of debts and there are claims against the company, members cannot be pursued by creditors. 

Instead, the creditors can only legally go after the company itself and seize its assets. In this turn of events, the members only lose the resources that they’ve invested into the company. 

Why you need one

Whether you are starting an online business or a traditional business, you are probably wondering why you should structure it as an LLC organization.

It’s important to note that you are not required by any law to apply and register your business as an LLC (with one exemption). 

However, you should do this if you are concerned with any of the following:

8 Types of LLCs You Should Know About

LLC business structure is a broad category that encompasses different types of LLCs. Every one of these LLC types is unique, and knowing the differences can help you to make the right choice for your future business.

Single-member LLC

A single-member LLC structure is best suited for solo entrepreneurs. It comes with fewer requirements than other LLC types regarding paperwork and initial costs. 

Multi-member LLC

Multi-member LLC is suitable for people who want to start a business with partners. All LLC members must sign an operating agreement that states their responsibilities and profit/debt share.

Domestic and Foreign LLC

Domestic LLC is perfect for future business owners who live in a state with affordable tax rates, low registration fees, and business-friendly laws. If you want to register an LLC in another state with more favorable fees, laws, and tax rates, it would be considered a foreign LLC. 

Series LLC

Series LLC is a company that has a parent LCC and several smaller LLCs, often referred to as cells. Every cell in a series LLC has its own members and can have a completely different purpose and goals than other cells. It’s a perfect choice for entrepreneurs with different viable business ideas. 

L3C Company

L3C or low-profit LLC is often used for not-for-profit institutions. L3C companies often find funding more easily because they attract private and philanthropic investments. 

Anonymous LLC

As the name suggests, the anonymous LLC type enables you to start a business without disclosing members’ private information. 

Restricted LLC

Restricted LLC enables its members to transfer assets to family members without paying high taxes. You can currently register a Restricted LLC in Nevada.

PLLC

PLLC legal structure is a law requirement in many states. PLLC is for professionals who need to have state regulatory board licenses to trade. It includes various professions such as medical providers and legal advisers.

Limited liability company taxes 

It’s essential to understand the unique position that LLC companies are in when paying business and income taxes. The Internal Revenue Service (or IRS) is in charge of collecting taxes and administering the Internal Revenue Code in the US. The IRS has labelled the LLC business structure as a “pass-through entity”.

This places LLC into the same position as a Partnership, and Sole Partnership business structures are defined in terms of paying company taxes. An LLC company is just seen as a vessel that the business income goes through. This income goes to the LLC members. Every LLC member is responsible for reporting their own share of profits and losses.  

Since profits and losses that go through an LLC company are considered personal income, LLC members don’t have to worry about corporate taxes. This means that the law sees LLC members as self-employed, and they have to pay self-employment tax. 

LLCs can file a form with the IRS to request to be taxed as C or S corporations. 

Pros and cons of a limited liability company

Before choosing the right business structure for your new business, you need to grasp all of the pros and cons that a specific structure offers. 

Here are all of the noteworthy pros and cons of LLC:

The costs of forming an LLC

It’s hard to give an exact number related to the exact costs of forming an LLC. If you are wondering how much it costs to form an LLC, it’s important to understand that filing costs vary from state to state (including various fees). 

Generally speaking, LLC filing costs are different from state to state and can range anywhere between $40 in Kentucky, and $500 in Massachusetts. You will also have to obtain a business license which can cost you anywhere from $10 up to $200 plus pay the renewal fees every year. 

How long does it usually take to form an LLC?

Generally speaking, after you file your articles of organization and pay all of the necessary fees, it can take 14 days on average to form an LLC. Sometimes the process can take longer than that, but usually no longer than 21 days. 

How to start an LLC 

Since you are considering starting an LLC, you should become familiar with the procedures involved. This can help to assess the complexity of the process and decide whether you will need professional help to do this. 

Choose a name 

First, decide on a name for your LLC. Coming up with a memorable name can be challenging, and you might find a business name generator helpful. You will need to choose a unique name because state laws don’t allow duplicate business names. 

Pick a registered agent

You are also required to have a registered agent. When considering who should be your registered agent, you should ensure that the potential agent is available during business hours at an address in the state where the LLC will be registered.

Set up an operating agreement 

Setting up an operating agreement is the next step. It should outline the LLC members’ responsibilities, profit/loss share, and other relevant information about your LLC operations.

File your articles of organization 

Next, you will have to complete, sign, and file the articles of organization that are required by the state where you are registering the LLC. 

Pay all of the necessary fees 

Finally, you will have to pay all of the fees required by the relevant institution in the state. 

Conclusion 

As you can see, starting an LLC is not as complicated as you might’ve previously imagined. Unlike other business entities, the LLC structure offers unique perks and unites the best elements from partnership and corporation business models. 

Choosing LLC over other business entities can help you to protect your assets, save on taxes, and benefit from flexible management. These advantages can hopefully offset the higher filing fees and investment challenges that an LLC can cause.

The post What is an LLC? appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

One critical aspect and investment for a website is the domain name. Let’s discuss this topic and help you to understand the basics. 

What are domain names even?

Domain names are unique identifiers of addresses that we use to access websites. This text represents a numeric IP address of that website so that you can use client software to access websites easily. In other words, instead of using numbers to identify and access a site, we use the domain name text. 

In simplest terms, a domain name is a text that you type into your browser window to visit a specific site.

For example, if you want to go to Google, you will type “google.com.” However, don’t confuse domain names and URLs. 

You can find both in the same window of your browser, but a URL includes a domain name, the transfer protocol used, and website path.

If you have the URL: “https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domain_name”, “HTTPS” represents the protocol used, “en.wikipedia.org” is the domain name, and “wiki” and “Domain name” are paths to specific pages. 

How domain names work

When you type in the URL or the domain name into your search bar, you can find the desired site in seconds. This is a process that we’ve all grown used to and take for granted, at this point. However, many things function behind the scenes to make this possible.

As previously mentioned, every website has its IP address stored on the server, similar to each computer’s IP address on the internet. However, many websites exist on the web, and these IP addresses can be long and difficult to remember.

This is where the DNS (Domain Name System) comes into play. This system is an extensive network of servers located worldwide, and it connects people to websites using the IP addresses of those sites as identifiers. The DNS converts those numerical IPs into domains so that we can understand them more easily. 

Domain name extensions

ICANN introduced domain name extensions in 1998 when the organization created the first six top-level domain extensions, including .org, .gov, .mil, .edu, .net, and .com. Today, we are all familiar with these extensions, and we see and use them regularly. 

These extensions were designed to categorize domain names into different groups and to make it easier to find them. For example, government websites, institutions, and colleges primarily use the “.org” extension. 

At the same time, these extensions also reduce complexity and offer more domain name options. So, for example, you can have two identical domain names with different extensions. As the internet developed, so did domain extensions, and there are five different categories today (more on these below).

Why are they important?

Domain names are essential for many reasons, but there are three core things that they serve to accomplish.

One of the most crucial characteristics of good domain names is making an excellent first impression and helping people to remember your business. Potential customers can instantly learn unique and easy-to-remember names. 

Domain names can also help to define a brand and allow website visitors to quickly understand your business. 

You can use domain names for search engine optimization because websites can add their primary keywords to their domain names. It’s unnecessary to use domains with exact-match keywords, but it’s preferable to make them close and relevant.

Types of domain names with examples

Many different domain extensions change how the entire URL looks. All of them have a role to play since they impact the overall impression of the domain name. Learning how to tell extensions apart and understand their positioning is essential. 

Top-level domains

Top-level domains (TLDs) are at the highest level of domain extensions in the hierarchy, always appearing at the end of the web address. Because of this, they are also called domain endings.

The IANA (Internet Assigned Numbers Authority) allocates and manages these domains, regulating their existence and selling the rights to specific domain registrars. 

Initially, ICANN introduced six top-level domains, but as the internet expanded, the demand for new unique domain names grew. Some of them are limited to specific organizations, such as .org which only government websites can use. 

Generic top-level domains

Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) are also top-level domains, but they represent a thematic sphere divided into sponsored and non-sponsored gTLDs.

A sponsor restricts sponsored gTLDs, as organizations administer and control these domains. 

On the other hand, ICANN and its partners manage and control non-sponsored addresses in a centralized fashion. At first, they provided these extensions only in specific situations because .net was reserved for internet providers only, but private individuals and companies can also use them today. 

Second-level domains

Second-level domains or SLDs are selected extensions under TLDs, and because of this, they are often called simply “domain names.”

Even though they are below TLDs, they are more critical in terms of SEO and user experience as they describe the keywords and contents of a website. 

Second-level domains provide companies and individuals the ability to include something that users can associate with their websites and that will strengthen a brand. 

Third-level domains

Third-level domains or subdomains aren’t mandatory, but you can include them before second-level domains. Users typically add them to provide better structure to website content and web pages.

For example, adding different topics and language options to a third level domain is possible while giving it meaning and not changing the domain name. 

By default, most websites have a “www” third-level domain, but that may not always be the case, especially with larger companies, since they have many pages and might even use “www1” and “www2” extensions. 

Country code top-level domains

Country code top-level domains (ccTLDs) are domain extensions for countries, sovereign states, and dependent territories. They always have two letters that represent each country.

For example, a United Kingdom extension would be “UK,” but ICANN also assigns these extensions for geographically separated territories of their parent countries. 

In other words, if you are creating a site that will tend to the needs of a global audience, you should avoid ccTLDs. However, large countries that want dedicated websites use these extensions for local customers. 

Conclusion 

When building a website, choosing your domain name is one of the most important decisions that you have to make. When you decide on that name, there’s no going back unless you want to start over again and spend even more money. Take the time to consider all of the options available and make sure to perform keyword research to find the right fit. 

The post Examples of Domain Names (Different Types and Extensions) appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

Should you start a blog and try to connect with readers worldwide? Build a website and start your own business? Or do both? 

To determine your best course of action, you first need to know what a blog is, what a website is, and whether there’s any difference between the two. 

So, let’s get into it. 

What is a blog? 

When blogging first started back in 1994, it was a way for individuals to express their thoughts and beliefs. You’d use your blog as an online journal or a personal diary, sharing opinions with your readers and logging your daily activities. That’s where the name comes from – it’s short for weblog. 

In essence, a blog is a website, but the opposite is not always true. It’s a platform where you can post frequent articles related to any topic that you find interesting. All of your content will be presented in reverse chronological order – the newest entries appear at the top of the page. 

Most commonly, you’ll stick to a specific niche, such as a food blog, a fashion blog, a car blog, or anything in between. However, you can also mix and match if it makes sense for your audience. You’ll have a comment section where you can communicate with your readers, and you’ll generally stick to a more conversational tone. 

Over the years, blogs have evolved into the go-to method for businesses and individuals to communicate with their audiences, share relevant information and updates, and, most importantly, improve their online presence. 

When businesses started blogging, the lines between websites and blogs became more blurred than ever before. Suddenly, you started seeing websites with dedicated blog pages, as well as blogs that were slowly turning into websites in their own right. 

What distinguishes blogs from websites today is that they’re dynamic, with new posts and content published monthly, weekly, and even daily, they’re primarily informal (although that depends on the author), and written for entertainment, education, and most commonly, for fun. 

Today, there are well over 570 million blogs online (not including websites with dedicated blog pages), with more being created by the minute. If you want to get into blogging, you’ll have to brace for some fierce competition, but it can be well worth it. 

What is a website? 

While a blog is a type of website, not every website is a blog. A website is a collection of related web pages that belong to a single domain. 

Most commonly, it’s a set of landing pages and multimedia content that’s static. A website will have a clear structure, with a homepage that has buttons, widgets, and a menu that you can use to navigate the site. However, it won’t have some of the elements often included in blogs, such as author references, publishing dates, tags, topic categories, and the like. 

You won’t see frequent updates or changes on a website like you would with blogs – unless a website sells products, in which case you might see changes as new products are added. 

Websites are generally more formal and professional than blogs. Their aim isn’t so much to engage with visitors or build rapport with them but rather to inform them and drive them to perform an action such as buying an item, scheduling a demo, calling the provided phone number, or visiting the physical location. 

Many businesses and government agencies, for example, will have websites where they explain (and sell) their products/services, offer their contact information, and educate the audiences about their niche. 

Some of the best business websites will also have dedicated blog pages where they can reap the benefits of blogging. These blog pages will have semi-regular updates because blogging allows business owners to improve their Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and increase their online ranking. Furthermore, it allows them to establish stronger relationships with their audiences and inspire trust and loyalty. 

Which is better, a blog or a website? 

Whether a blog or a website is the better choice depends entirely on your needs. 

If you don’t have your own business and aren’t planning on starting one, a blog could be a much better choice for you. As long as you have a topic that you’re passionate about and a willingness to commit to frequently writing new articles, you can benefit from blogging. 

However, don’t rely on blogging as your get-rich-quick scheme. It takes time to attract a high number of readers and even more time to become a trustworthy source of information. Once you reach that stage, though, you can monetize your blog through various means – publish ads, write sponsored posts, become an affiliate marketer, offer relevant services, post gated content, sell eBooks, and more. 

A website can be a better choice when you already have your own business. If you don’t have a dedicated business website, you’re missing out on hundreds of potential leads and customers. After all, about 76% of customers will look up a business’s online presence before visiting it in person. 

They’ll either skip over you if they can’t find you online or use unreliable information about your business from third parties and draw conclusions from what others are saying. This is why you need to have a website for your existing business. 

Creating a website opens many doors for business owners, especially when the site has a blog page. You can still use monetization tactics like publishing sponsored posts and selling eBooks, but you can also use this as an opportunity to get into eCommerce. 

Any products that your business may be already selling can likely be sold online as well, whether we’re talking about apparel, handmade crafts, computer parts, vintage furniture, or anything in between. While the eCommerce industry is definitely competitive regardless of your niche, it does allow you to expand your audiences and reach new customers. 

Whether you choose the blog or the website route, today you don’t need much technical expertise to build your place on the web. Solutions such as the renowned WordPress Content Management System (CMS) make blog and website creation significantly easier. 

How to start a blog

If you’ve decided that a blog makes more sense for your needs, you’ll have to start building one. While this may seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve never dabbled in similar tasks, it isn’t all that complicated. 

You can complete the whole process in a few simple steps, discussed in full in our introduction to starting a blog: 

Pick a niche

You can choose any niche you like for your blog, as long as you have enough knowledge about the topic to share with others. Make sure that you’re passionate about your niche, as you’ll likely have to dedicate much of your time to writing relevant blog posts. 

Choose your blogging platform

There are numerous blogging platforms that you could go for, from Tumblr to Medium, Blogger, and WordPress. Over 43% of the web is built on WordPress, so it’s your safest option.

Choose a domain name and find a host

Your domain name is how people will recognize you in the online communities. Make sure that the name is relevant to your topic and that it’s unique, easy to pronounce, and concise.

Your web host is where your blog will be stored. It will ensure that your blog is visible, online 24/7 and that it can handle the traffic you’ll receive.

Set up WordPress

WordPress simplifies the whole process of designing your blog and making it functional. It’s user-friendly, allowing you to build a professional-looking blog site without any prior knowledge.

Select a theme

Although it’s much more important what your blog does rather than how it looks, appearances still matter. Find a theme that reflects your tastes and matches your niche.

Create and publish content

While it’s much easier said than done, now’s the time to start writing. Start with the static content (such as About Us), then come up with your first post topic. Keep it clean and concise, and make sure to update your blog on a regular schedule.

Optimize your blog for search engines

Attracting adequate readership depends on your ranking on search engines like Google. To improve your ranking, you need to optimize your content. Research the keywords relevant to your niche, improve your link-building, make sure that your site is optimized for mobile, and stay on top of SEO trends.

Promote your blog

Few people will stumble across your blog accidentally. You’ll need to promote it by using social media, participating in discussions on relevant forums, and even guest posting on others’ blogs. Get creative and be patient.

Monetize your blog

As mentioned, there are many strategies that you can adopt to monetize your blog, from affiliate marketing to selling eBooks. It can take a while before your blog starts to pay off, so stay dedicated to it. 

How to build a website

If a website makes more sense for your needs than a blog, you’ll have to start creating one. Our full guide to making a website contains all of the main details, summarized in a few steps: 

Choose your tools

Website builders like WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace will make building a website from scratch significantly easier. The alternative is hiring a website developer and investing a hefty amount.

Plan the setup and structure

Your website needs to be well-organized and easy to navigate. Determine what kind of content you’ll create and which features and elements you wish your site to have, then develop a clean setup and structure.

Choose a domain name and find a host 

Like a blog, your website will need a name and a hosting solution. Ideally, your domain name will be the same as the name of your business. Otherwise, it will seem unreliable and inconsistent.

Set up your website

WordPress reigns supreme in the blogging and website spheres, powering over 65% of all websites using CMS technology. It’s your best option when you’re just getting started.

Select a theme

Finally, like a blog, your website needs a theme. Keep it clean and professional, without too many distractions that can crowd your pages and make them more difficult to peruse. 

With your website complete, you can move on to building your small eCommerce empire.

The process can be somewhat overwhelming, so we’ve developed this thorough guide to starting an eCommerce business that will lead you through it. 

Conclusion 

Although blogs and websites share many similarities, they’re ultimately quite different. Blogs are dynamic, informal, and entertaining. Websites are static, professional, and informative. Both can be excellent options for making money online – it all depends on your needs and interests. 

The post What Is the Difference Between a Blog and a Website? appeared first on FirstSiteGuide.

If you’re interested in learning more about NFTs and staying in touch with the latest developments, it’s important to follow some popular NFT bloggers. We have compiled a list of leading blogs to save you from the trouble of searching for the best NFT content yourself. Take a look!

15 best NFT blogs

Finding the best NFT blogs wasn’t easy because the niche is relatively new with many blogs still up-and-coming. However, we have selected the most active and entertaining ones that already attract thousands of readers around the globe.

We have collected a total of 15 great sites where you can find useful content published by leading NFT bloggers. In addition to listing standard blogs, some of these sites also feature news posts, analyses, NFT offers, and more. Feel free to explore our selections, especially if you’re looking for a source of inspiration for starting your own blog.

1. AirNFTs

Just like Rarible, AirNFTs is a popular marketplace where you can buy or sell non-fungible tokens. The site has a great blog section that covers a range of trending topics relevant to the industry.

Main topics covered: NFT sales, artists, projects
Built with: Webflow
The main source of income: Commission from the NFT marketplace
Most popular post: AirNFT Roadmap and Vision
Instagram account: @airnfts

2. NonFungible.com

NonFungible is described as an NFT data resource. You’ll find important pieces of information regarding NFT trades, sales, and more. This platform has a blog section that covers a broad range of NFT-related topics.

Main topics covered: analyses, art, DeFi, metaverse, games, utility
Built with: Next.js
The main source of income: marketing/various 
Most popular post: What is the crypto art movement?
Instagram account: @nonfungiblecom

3. OpenSea 

Like the previous platforms, OpenSea is basically a popular NFT marketplace that also serves as a hub for thousands of NFT enthusiasts. Additionally, it offers a great blog section where you can learn more about the platform, its features, blockchain, security, and more.

Main topics covered: safety & security, spotlights, announcements, interviews
Built with: WordPress
The main source of income: NFT marketplace
Most popular post: 10 tips for avoiding scams and staying safe on the decentralized web
Instagram account: @opensea 

4. NFT Plazas

NFT Plazas is the ultimate go-to website for everyone who wants to learn about the industry, as it covers a broad range of related topics. Ultimately, it’s a news site with plenty of useful and informative content if you’re looking to learn more about NFTs.

Main topics covered: metaverse, gaming, collectibles, crypto art, music, industry, and more
Built with: WordPress
The main source of income: ads, guest posts
Most popular post: Web 3.0: A Chance to Redeem Clicktivism Through NFTs & Blockchain?
Instagram account: @nftplazas

5. NFTically

NFTically is another easy-to-use NFT marketplace where you can trade and create NFTs. The platform is home to many influencers, artists, games, and even entire communities. Its NFT blog covers a range of informative blog posts for newcomers and experienced NFT traders/creators.

Main topics covered: NFTs, trading, collectibles, educational content
Built with: WordPress
The main source of income: NFT marketplace
Most popular post: What the hell is NFT? How does it work?
Instagram account: @nftically

6. Crypto.com NFT

Crypto.com is a popular crypto/blockchain brand that offers a wide range of products and services. It also features a great blog section, and one of the topics covered is non-fungible tokens. However, you’ll also find other useful content about cryptocurrencies.

Main topics covered: crypto, NFT
Built with: Ghost
The main source of income: From products on the site
Most popular post: Mint Your Own NFTs on Crypto.com/NFT 
Instagram account: @cryptocomofficial

7. Financial Times NFT

Financial Times (FT) is one of the most popular finance-related online papers. Since NFTs are closely related to finance (especially decentralized finance), this platform has plenty of posts related to the popular form of digital art.

Main topics covered: tech, market, climate, life, art, and more
Built with: Custom
The main source of income: subscriptions
Most popular post: How London became a crypto-art capital
Instagram account: @financialtimes

8. NFT Culture

NFT Culture is a comprehensive online platform dedicated to NFTs. You’ll find plenty of useful guides and learn about the latest NFT artists, best marketplaces, and more. The platform also has a merchandise shop branded as Crypto Art Hype.

Main topics covered: NFTs, guides, artists, marketplaces
Built with: WordPress
The main source of income: merch
Most popular post: NFT Security Concerns – Will Non-Fungible Tokens Survive The Hype?
Instagram account: @nft_culture

9. Metaversal

Metaversal is a newsletter/blog that covers a wide array of NFT and blockchain-related topics. There are also many interesting guides, op-eds, tips and tricks, and more. However, you’ll need some NFT knowledge to understand Metaversal properly, especially the industry-related slang.

Main topics covered: NFTs
Built with: Custom
The main source of income: subscriptions
Most popular post: NFTs Are Winning

10. Play to Earn

Play to Earn is an online magazine that focuses on gaming in combination with NFTs, collectibles, virtual worlds, and more. It covers the emerging trends in gaming that rely on the use of blockchain and related technologies.

Main topics covered: games, NFTs, collectibles
Built with: WordPress
The main source of income: unknown
Most popular post: What are NFTs or Non-Fungible Tokens?

11. KnownOrigin

KnownOrigin is a popular digital art marketplace that allows users to buy art or offer their work as a non-fungible token. It’s similar to other marketplaces described in this post. The site’s journal section offers plenty of interesting stories, artist spotlights, guest posts, featured drops, and more.

Main topics covered: updates, artist spotlights, behind the screens, stories, and more
Built with: Custom
The main source of income: marketplace
Most popular post: What are NFTs & How Do They Work?
Instagram account: @knownorigin.io

12. Enjin

Enjin is a platform that aims to make non-fungible tokens (NFTs) more available to everyone, including individuals and businesses. The platform can help you to get started with NFTs quickly and become an expert. It also features an interesting and informative blog section.

Main topics covered: NFTs, news, guides, insights
Built with: Webflow
Most popular post: How NFTs Are Revitalizing the Creative Industry
Instagram account: @enjin

13. Larvalabs (CryptoPunks)

Larvalabs is a site presenting two creative technologists – Matt and John. Their projects, the most popular being CryptoPunks, present the most expensive NFT collection at the moment. They also have quite an engaging blog section that we recommend checking out.

Main topics covered: NFTs, projects, news, insights
Built with: Custom
The main source of income: NFTs
Most popular post: CryptoPunks Two Year Anniversary
Instagram account: @cryptopunks

14. Ether Cards

Ether Cards is a platform that offers a set of tools for supporting the NFT ecosystem, helping NFT traders and creators drive engagement, improve sales, and more. The platform features a blog where you can learn more about the latest updates.

Main topics covered: NFTs, latest updates
Built with: Ghost
The main source of income: main service
Most popular post: Leveraging the Power of Dynamic Ecosystems
Instagram account: @ether.cards

15. Mintable

Mintable is one of the most popular marketplaces where you can mint your own NFTs and sell them via the platform. It also features an outstanding editorial section/blog where you can learn more about NFTs, find new art, and more.

Main topics covered: guides, highlights, news
Built with: WordPress
The main source of income: marketplace
Most popular post: NFTs For Musicians: Fixing a Broken Industry
Instagram account: @mintable_app

Conclusion

As you can see, many NFT blogs featured here are part of bigger projects, such as NFT marketplaces, games, tools, and more. Feel free to explore this list to understand the NFT sphere better, especially if you want to start creating or trading non-fungible tokens. If you want to start an NFT blog, the sites above should help you to develop some topic and design ideas.

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