Ltd. vs. LLC: What’s the difference?

This post contains affiliate links, and we will be compensated if you buy after clicking on our links.

Read our review guidelines.

Are you in the process of forming a business? Congratulations! You’re well on your way to becoming an established entrepreneur. 

Since you’re in the trenches of business formation, you may feel overwhelmed by all of the possible business structures that you can adopt. 

For example, Ltd. and LLC structures share similarities – which can create understandable confusion for new business owners. 

Fortunately, we have created this guide to break down the differences between Ltd. and LLC structures. 

We’ll define both terms, talk about the advantages and disadvantages of each, and offer some wisdom about which structure might be suitable for your business.

You’ll be ready to make your choice in no time.

LegalZoom

Learn the pros and cons of the 5 different business types to find the one that's right for you.

Get started
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Private limited companies (Ltd.) are a business structure that limits liability based on the financial stake a shareholder has in the company.
  • LLCs are a business structure that is popular among small businesses for their simplicity, tax structure, and managerial flexibility.
  • Ltd.’s are available to residents of Commonwealth countries, which does not apply to the United States. Instead, residents of the United States should file for an LLC if they are looking for a similar business structure.
  • The most important difference between an Ltd. and an LLC is that you cannot operate an Ltd. in the United States.

Ltd. (Limited)

Ltd. (or limited company) is a name used to describe a private limited company. 

Private limited companies are a business structure that limits liability based on the financial stake a shareholder has in the company. 

So, if a shareholder has invested more in the company, they will be protected more readily. 

Additionally, LTDs have a more rigid management structure that includes shareholders and directors, as seen in a C-corporation

This structure is most common in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, including Canada and Ireland. 

The equivalent structure in the United States is the LLC. In the UK, LLCs are required to pay corporation tax, which may also accompany value-added tax if the income passes a certain amount.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

LLC definition

Limited liability companies (LLCs) are a business structure that is popular among small businesses for their simplicity, tax structure, and managerial flexibility.

Notably, about 35% of small businesses are LLCs in the United States.

LLCs provide asset protection and shield owners from any of the business’s debts or legal issues. 

Additionally, LLCs have a simple tax structure that is managed through the personal tax return of the business owner or owners. 

This tax method is called “pass-through taxation,” where the company tax is passed through its members or owners.

What’s the difference between a Ltd. and LLC?

The most important difference between an Ltd. and an LLC is that you cannot operate an Ltd. in the United States.

However, here are some other differences:

Ltd.LLC
More structured management, including shareholders and directorsMore flexibility with management
The tax burden is more complex and may be greater than an LLCThe tax structure is simple

Advantages & Disadvantages

As mentioned, the structures of LLCs and Ltds are very similar, with a few small caveats.

Take a look at this chart that shows the pros and cons of choosing one or the other to assist you with your decision-making process.

Ltd.

Pros

Ideal for United Kingdom and Canadian residents

Limited liability

Small business credibility

Cons

More complex tax structure

Rigid management system

LLC

Pros

Ideal for United States residents

Limited liability

Simple tax structure

Cons

Fewer opportunities for investment

Less credible than other structures

How to choose between an Ltd. and an LLC

The main difference between Ltds and LLCs is locational. LTDs are available to residents of Commonwealth countries, which does not apply to the United States. 

Instead, residents of the United States should file for an LLC if they are looking for a similar business structure.

Additionally, the hierarchy of an LLC is simpler, as a board of directors and shareholders are not required to operate under this business structure. 

The rigid structure of a limited company can provide benefits, but flexibility is more accessible with LLCs.

Ltd. vs. LLC: Which option is best for your business?

You have finished perusing this article on the differences between Ltd. and LLC structures. 

Be sure to check out the FAQ at the bottom of this article if you have any more burning questions.

In general, choose an Ltd. if you’re a resident of the United Kingdom or another commonwealth nation and would like to have a simpler structure with limited liability.

Conversely, choose an LLC if you’re a resident of the United States and are looking for a flexible structure that offers asset protection.

Good luck with all of your present and future business endeavors!

FAQs

Are limited companies only available in the United Kingdom?

Yes, you cannot become a limited company in the United States in the same way that you become one in the United Kingdom.

However, the LLC structure is very similar if you like the Ltd. structure.

Is an Ltd. a small business?

Not necessarily! However, it is more beneficial for small businesses to operate as a limited company than it is for big businesses, in terms of taxation and other logistical factors.

Remember, the legal structure of a business does not give you information about its size, rather it tells you about the features of the company’s mode of operation.

What type of business is a Ltd.?

An Ltd. is a limited liability organization that is usually smaller in scope and size.

These organizations are run by shareholders and directors but generally have the same structure as an LLC in the United States.

Related reading

LegalZoom

Learn the pros and cons of the 5 different business types to find the one that's right for you.

Get started
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Donny is the founder of SMB Guide. He is a seasoned small business owner and entrepreneur, with over 17+ years of experience growing and building companies. He is a well traveled and multi-faceted individual with several successful six figure business exits.