New LLC? This Letter Could Cost You $119 for Nothing
If you’ve recently formed a U.S. LLC, there’s a good chance you’ve received a letter that looks government-issued, demanding a $119 “filing fee.” It may look urgent. It may feel official. But here’s the truth: this fee is not for your BOI report and not from the government. Instead, it comes from a private company like “Annual Records Service” trying to appear official. To be clear—BOI filing through FinCEN.gov is 100% free, and no agency will mail you a bill for it. Welcome to one of the most misleading scams targeting new business owners.
What Is BOI Filing and Who Needs It?
The Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report is a real federal requirement introduced under the Corporate Transparency Act in 2024. It helps prevent financial crimes by identifying the real individuals behind businesses. BOI filing must be completed online through FinCEN.gov—not via mail or third-party services.
✅ Free ✅ Online-only ✅ Due within 90 days of formation
Failing to file can result in fines of up to $500 per day.
The $119 BOI Filing Scam: How It Works
Scammers are sending professional-looking letters soon after your LLC is registered, often labeled as coming from:
* Annual Records Service * Business Document Center * Corporate Filing Bureau
The letter usually includes:
* A demand for $119 or more * Phrases like “Time Sensitive” or “Immediate Action Required” * A payment slip or return envelope * No official government logos or .gov domain
They’re counting on your confusion. And sadly, many new LLC owners fall for it.
BOI Scam Red Flags to Watch For
📌 1. Generic Sender Names
Government agencies don’t go by names like “Annual Records Service.”
📌 2. No .gov Website
The only place to file BOI is [fincen.gov/boi](https://www.fincen.gov/boi).
📌 3. Pressure Language
Phrases like “Failure to respond may result in penalties” are meant to scare you.
📌 4. Fine Print
Often hidden at the bottom: “This is a solicitation.”
How to File Your BOI Report (for Free)
1. Go to [FinCEN’s official website]
2. Click “File BOI Report”
3. Complete the form – takes about 10 minutes
4. Submit it directly. No third party is required.
💡 Pro tip: Bookmark fincen.gov and avoid any .com or .org sites that promise BOI services.
Real Business Owners Are Getting Tricked
One small business owner on Reddit reported paying $119 before realizing it wasn’t a government letter. Another creator on TikTok exposed the same scam after finding the company name had dozens of complaints online. Don’t let yourself be next.
Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay Safe
Scams are getting more sophisticated—and new LLC owners are their favorite targets. You don’t have to be a victim. Always verify the source, especially when a letter asks for money. BOI filing is a legal requirement, but it doesn’t cost a penny when done through FinCEN.gov.
