Operating LLC holds risk; sister HoldCo owns cash, IP, real estate — leases back at arms-length rents/royalties.
Classic asset protection: OpCo (operating LLC) runs the risky business with minimal cash/assets. HoldCo (separate LLC, often WY/NV) owns the real estate, equipment, IP, and cash reserves. HoldCo leases property to OpCo at market rent + licenses IP for royalty + can loan money via secured note. If OpCo is sued or fails, creditors reach only OpCo's thin balance sheet; HoldCo's assets are separately owned. Layered with a §754 election, management fee flow, and QSBS-eligible C-corp HoldCo for maximum benefit.
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Wyoming holding LLC (anonymous, charging-order sole remedy) owns operating LLCs — creditors can't seize equity.
Nevada LLC = charging order sole remedy + no income tax + strong anonymity via nominee manager.
One master LLC + unlimited protected sub-series — each property isolated, one annual fee.
Self-settled irrevocable trust in NV/SD/DE/AK — creditor exposure eliminated after 2-year statute.
Cook Islands trust — the gold standard offshore asset protection; U.S. judgments not recognized, 1-year statute.
Nevis LLC — $100K bond required for creditor to sue + 1-year statute + no U.S. judgment recognition.
Encumber personal residence / rentals with friendly HELOCs / notes — appear equity-poor to creditors.
Married couples in 25 states can title assets so single-spouse creditors can't touch them.