Convert your Tennessee entity to a different structure.
Tennessee allows statutory conversion between entity types: LLC → Corporation, Corporation → LLC, and other variations. The most common path is LLC → C-Corp ahead of a VC round. This guide explains when conversion makes sense, the process, fees, and the often-overlooked tax consequences.
Start Tennessee conversion →Common Tennessee conversion paths
Triggered by an institutional fundraise. VCs structurally cannot invest in LLCs. Founders convert to a C-Corp (often re-domiciling to Delaware) before signing a term sheet.
Less common. Usually for closely-held businesses pursuing pass-through tax treatment after exiting a venture path. Tax consequences can be material.
Convert your existing entity into a new state. Common path: Tennessee entity → Delaware C-Corp ahead of a VC round.
The Tennessee conversion process
- 1Member or shareholder approval. Required vote per the Operating Agreement or Bylaws.
- 2Plan of Conversion. Sets terms: ownership translation, treatment of debts, effective date.
- 3File Articles of Conversion + Articles of Organization/Incorporation with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
- 4Adopt new governance documents. Bylaws + Stock Certificates for Corps; Operating Agreement for LLCs.
- 5Update IRS + state tax accounts. EIN typically survives. Tax classification may change.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert my Tennessee LLC to a C-Corp?
Will my EIN change if I convert in Tennessee?
How much does Tennessee entity conversion cost?
Why do VCs require LLC → C-Corp conversion?
What are the tax consequences of converting from LLC to C-Corp in Tennessee?
Can I re-domicile my Tennessee business to Delaware?
Does File.Business handle conversions?
Ready to handle this the easy way?
Five minutes per filing. State fee passed through at cost. Audit trail and deadline tracking included.
Disclosure. File.Business is a private business filing and compliance service. We are not a government agency and are not affiliated with the Tennessee Secretary of State or any Secretary of State office. You may file directly with the Tennessee Secretary of State. Information on this page is for general guidance only and is not legal, tax, or accounting advice. Fees and deadlines verified against the Tennessee Secretary of State as of June 2026 and may change. For entity-specific guidance, consult a licensed Tennessee attorney or CPA.