New York LLC Types — Choose the Right Structure
New York offers several LLC structures under the NY Limited Liability Company Law. The right choice depends on your ownership situation, profession, and business goals. Note that New York does NOT offer Series LLCs — if you need that structure, see our [NY vs Delaware](/versus/new york-vs-delaware-llc/) comparison. For formation steps, see our NY LLC guide.
Available LLC Types in New York
| LLC Type | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Single-member LLC | Solo entrepreneurs, freelancers | One owner, simplest structure |
| Multi-member LLC | Partnerships, co-founders | Multiple owners, flexible allocation |
| Professional LLC (PLLC) | Physicians, attorneys, CPAs, architects | Required for licensed professionals under Education Law |
| Foreign LLC | Out-of-state LLCs operating in NY | Registration for non-NY entities |
| Domestic vs. Foreign | Understanding which applies | Where you formed vs. where you operate |
What New York Does NOT Offer
No Series LLC: Unlike Texas, Delaware, or Illinois, New York has not enacted a Series LLC statute. If you want series liability separation, you must form separate LLCs for each division/property.
No Low-Profit LLC (L3C): New York has not adopted L3C legislation. Social enterprises must use standard LLCs, benefit corporations, or not-for-profit structures.
Choosing the Right Type
Ready to get started?
Get StartedStandard LLC (single or multi-member): For 95% of NY businesses — service providers, consultants, freelancers, e-commerce, real estate, restaurants, tech companies.
Professional LLC (PLLC): Required if your profession is licensed under NY Education Law Section 1507 (physicians, dentists, nurses, CPAs, engineers, architects, attorneys via Judiciary Law Section 495).
Foreign LLC: If you formed your LLC in another state and now do business in New York (office, employees, or regular customers in NY).
FAQ
Can I change my LLC type after formation?
You cannot convert between standard LLC and PLLC without forming a new entity. You can add/remove members freely (changing from single to multi-member). Foreign LLCs can domesticate to become NY domestic LLCs.
Which type is cheapest to maintain?
All types have the same basic costs: $200 formation + publication + $9 biennial + IT-204-LL fee. No structural cost difference between single/multi-member or standard/professional.