1. Home
  2. Guides
  3. Delaware
  4. Delaware C-Corp for startups

Delaware C-Corp for venture-backed startups

Most US venture investors expect a Delaware C-Corp. Its running cost is the annual report fee plus franchise tax, and the method you choose to calculate the tax changes the bill a lot.

Facts checked against official sources on 27 September 2026

The official rules that apply

  • The minimum franchise tax is $175 under the Authorized Shares method and $400 under the Assumed Par Value Capital method; maximum tax is $200,000.
  • The Annual Report filing fee for domestic (non-exempt) corporations is $50 plus taxes due.
  • Taxes and Annual Reports must be received no later than March 1 each year.

Registration basics in Delaware

Company typeLimited Liability Company (LLC)
RegistryDelaware Division of Corporations
Government filing fee$110 — State filing fee for an LLC Certificate of Formation. Paid expedite options: 24-hour $50, same-day $100.
Registration timeThe Division publishes no standard processing time; expedited filing is sold as 24-hour, same-day, 2-hour or 1-hour service.
Resident directorNo resident member or manager requirement is stated.
Visit, notary or lawyerNo in-person step is stated; filing goes through a Delaware registered agent.
Registered addressEvery entity must keep a registered office and registered agent in Delaware with a physical street address. A PO box alone is not acceptable.
Minimum capitalNot stated
Corporate taxAn LLC’s income tax treatment depends on its members; we do not summarise it here.
Every yearAnnual LLC tax is due by June 1. Two official pages disagree on the amount ($400 on the tax instructions page, $300 on the formation page); confirm with the Division before paying. LLCs file no annual report.

Full step-by-step guide: company registration in Delaware.

Sources

  • corp.delaware.gov, checked 27 September 2026
  • corp.delaware.gov, checked 27 September 2026
  • corp.delaware.gov, checked 27 September 2026
FAQ · 3 questions

Frequently asked questions

Yes. No resident director is required, and the formation can be completed through a licensed provider. No visit is required.

Only if it meets the registry’s conditions; confirm with the provider before you pay.

No. We compare the official requirements and, if you ask, introduce you to one licensed provider in Delaware. The provider handles the filing and gives legal or tax advice where needed.