Cooperative vs LLC vs Corporation
The clearest way to see how a cooperative differs from an LLC and a corporation — across the eight decisions that actually matter when you choose a structure.
Tap any row to expand a plain-English explanation.
DimensionCooperativeLLCCorporation
A cooperative is owned by the people who participate in it; you join by using it, not by buying your way in. An LLC member's stake reflects capital contributed and can usually be sold to anyone. Corporate shares are pure capital ownership, freely transferable.
Sources: our guides on cooperative vs LLC, cooperative vs corporation, and the cooperative business model. General information, not legal or tax advice.
Leaning toward a cooperative?
Find your model, then follow the step-by-step formation guide.