A limited liability company (LLC) with two or more members is a multi-member LLC (MMLLC). Like a single-member LLC, a MMLLC is a type of business entity that combines the flexibility of a partnership with the limited liability of a corporation.
For multi-member LLCs, each member will have an ownership stake. One of the main differences between these two structures is that two or more people cannot own a single-member LLC, unless you're married in a community property state, and a single person cannot own a multi-member LLC.
A multiple-member LLC can file as a corporation. Though most LLCs with more than one member file partnership returns (Form 1065), they can file as corporations by submitting Form 8832.
As such, a multi-member LLC is a pass-through entity for tax purposes. That means the LLC business entity itself is not taxed, although it must file partnership tax returns with the IRS using Form 1065, which is considered an 'information return. '
Once you (and the other LLC Members, if applicable) sign the Operating Agreement, then it becomes a legal document. Can I write my own Operating Agreement? Yes, but we recommend using an Operating Agreement template. An Operating Agreement is a legal document.
Every corporation in the United States is, by default, taxed as a C corp unless it has elected to be taxed as an S corp instead. A single-member LLC is by default taxed as a sole proprietor. And a multi-member LLC is taxed as a partnership unless it elects to be taxed as an S corp.
How do I know what classification my LLC is? Unless you have elected to pursue an alternative classification, your LLC will either default to a Disregarded Entity (Sole Proprietorship) or a Partnership depending on the number of owners in your business.
The most commonly recommended approach to sharing equity in an LLC is to share "profits interests." A profits interest is analogous to a stock appreciation right. It is not literally a profit share, but rather a share of the increase in the value of the LLC over a stated period of time.
Their absence can lead to governance by default state laws, management, and financial disorganization, and increased legal vulnerabilities. LLCS should draft and maintain an operating agreement tailored to their specific business needs.
If you're forming—or have formed—an LLC in California, New York, Missouri, Maine, or Delaware, state laws require you to create an LLC Operating Agreement. But no matter what state you're in, it's always a good idea to create a formal agreement between LLC members.