This reference to LLC's covers less than what can be found on most state web sites. The forms are COPIES of downloadable forms from each state and are outdated. Most of the state fees are incorrect! LLC's are not difficult to file for. In most cases, there are only a couple requirements from each state and the forms can be completed in less than 30 minutes. What is hard about an LLC or any corporate structure is the Operating Agreement (like By Laws), which should be detailed and clearly spell out the rights, responsibilities and limitations placed on the members and managers of the organization. This book shows a couple very general examples but does not even list important areas to "think" about. The Operating Agreement is the most important document of an LLC; it is what creates the legal limiting of liability. The forms sent to the state are simply a formality and can be figured out by following the instructions on the forms themselves. More than 75% of this book lists information for each state and shows copies of forms. This is a waste. This is a no star book, but had to give atleast one.

This book is written by people who clearly know what they're talking about, and who aim to make the LLC simple to understand. They describe how easy it is to create one anywhere in the US and give you everything you need. The writing is simple, direct, and interesting--no legalese, no jargon. The book gives a clear picture of the advantages of LLCs over other business structures. Even though the copyright says 1995, the book has been updated through 1997 at least because it cites 1997 legislation. The authors walk you through the steps of creating the LLC, and provide simple forms of the five legal documents required--Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, Listing of Managers, Listing of Members, and Listing of Capital Contributions. It lists state-by-state the address of the Secretary of State, the fees, and state LLC guidelines. Incredibly, the book includes the actual forms you need for the filing in each state. I picked up the book not knowing anything about LLCs and feel I came away with a clear picture of how to create one. I appreciate the feeling of empowerment. However, this book provides the simplest versions of the things necessary to create an LLC. And stops there. There are many REALLY valuable items you could include in your Articles of Organization that the authors could have hinted at without losing that simple feel. Also, the name 'Handbook' is misleading--you'll soon want another book that gives you the nuts and bolts of funding and operating an LLC. But what the Handbook does, it does well. Good book, great price.