How to Set Up an LLC in All 50 US States & D.C.
Written by Bernard on May 08, 2017
If you’re just starting on your business journey, you might be wondering: should I start an LLC, S- or C-corporation, or sole proprietorship?
Today, we’ll look at why your best bet (if you’re a small business) is to form an LLC.
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Even better, we’ll look at what an LLC really is, what the advantages and limits are, how you can protect yourself, and of course, how you can start your LLC in your own state.
Table of Contents
II. Why Should I Register My Business as an LLC?
IV. How to Protect Yourself Even with an LLC
V. What Are the General Steps to Form an LLC?
VI. State Requirements to Form an LLC
By State:
I. What Is an LLC?
An LLC is a Limited Liability Company. It is the easiest way for companies in the US to structure their businesses and provide them with liability protection.
An LLC is a legal entity, meaning that your personal assets are protected if your business is every sued.
The LLC then becomes the main target of lawsuits and any debt it undertakes, and the owners are a separate entity that cannot be touched in those situations.
When choosing your business structure, you have in fact four options besides an LLC:
- s-corporation
- c-corporation
- general partnership
- sole proprietorship
All of these have their advantages and disadvantages. However, if you are a normal-sized business, you will probably want to go with an LLC. LLCs provide business owners with a balanced combination of simplicity and personal asset protection.
There are three different types of LLCs:
- domestic – an LLC initially registered in the state
- foreign – an LLC initally registered out-of-state and expanding to another state
- professional – an LLC designed for licensed professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, etc.
General partnerships and sole proprietorships don’t offer limited liability, meaning your personal assets are at risk if you ever get sued.
On the other hand, corporations are much more regulated and therefore difficult to form and maintain.
They are also subject to what’s known as double taxation, where the company’s profits are taxed before they are distributed to the business owners, and once again when the owners report their profit share on their own individual tax returns.
II. Why Should I Register My Business as an LLC?
An LLC has a lot of benefits over the other four forms.
Let’s go through each in detail:
1. Personal Asset Protection
This is the biggest reason why you want an LLC: your assets are protected under the law.
Any debts or lawsuits the LLC is subject to will not be able to affect your personal assets in any way. This gives you a lot of freedom and peace of mind.
In the worst case scenario, if everything goes belly-up with your business, or if there’s some unforeseen disaster, you can be comforted in knowing that your personal assets are safe.
However, there are certain cases in which an LLC will not be able to protect your personal assets, which we discuss below in “The Limits of LLCs.”
2. Simple Taxation
Because of the business structure, the LLC is only taxed once, in what’s known as “pass through taxation.”
Essentially, the profits from the LLC go directly to the business owners. They then report their profit share on their individual tax returns, where the profits are then taxed.
Therefore, LLC’s are not subject to the double taxation of corporations as described above, while still maintaining the limited liability.
3. Ease
It is relatively easy to form an LLC. The paperwork is also minimal and maintaining an LLC is quite straightforward.
In comparison, in order to form C- and S-Corporations, you will need to assign formal officer roles, have annual meeting and record minutes and resolutions.
In essence, you’d be doing a lot of work that may be disproportionate to the size of your company.
4. Professionalism
Choosing an LLC as your business structure will communicate to your customers how serious and professional your business is.
Having “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” shows that you have invested seriously into your company, whereas forming a sole proprietorship or general partnership is seen as less serious.
III. The Limits of LLCs
In #1 above, I stated how your personal assets will be protected in case anything goes wrong.
This protection, however, will not always apply, specifically if the business owner:
- directly and personally injures someone
- personally guarantees any business debt or bank loan which the LLC later defaults on
- does not deposit the necessary taxes that are withheld from employees’ wages
- is involved in fraudulent, reckless or illegal activities that injures or damages the company or an individual
- doesn’t separate the LLC from his or her personal finances, using it instead as an extension rather than a completely separate entity
Any of these reasons could lead the courts to decide that the protection normally applied to LLCs should be void in this particular situation.
This is especially true for those cases when the business owner does not adequately separate his business and personal finances.
The courts will then decide that the LLC does not really exist, and therefore the owner is liable for any damages.
IV. How to Protect Yourself Even with an LLC
In order to fully protect yourself after you’ve chosen to structure your business as an LLC, you should make sure to do the following:
- Participate in legal and fair activities: If you involve yourself in illegal or unfair activities, you could expose yourself to many problems. Always present material facts about your business finances to creditors, suppliers and others in a clear and honest manner.
- Make sure your LLC is properly funded: you should put aside and invest enough cash in your company so that the LLC can safely meet all of its financial obligations.
- Keep your personal and LLC finances separate: you should make sure that you have a separate bank account for your LLC and be strict about never purchasing personal things with your business card, or vice versa. You should also get a federal employer identification number to further separate your personal business separate from your LLC.
- Create your operating agreement: it is highly recommended that you have a formal written operating agreement, even if it is not required in your state. Having one will give credibility to the notion that your LLC does in fact exist as a separate entity.
- Get liability insurance: even though you have formed an LLC, it is still a good idea to get liability insurance in case your LLC does not protect you adequately. For example, if you are a masseuse and you accidentally injure your client, you could be exposed under just an LLC. General liability or professional liability insurance, however, will protect you in those cases.
V. What Are the General Steps to Form an LLC?
Although starting an LLC will vary among the 50 states, there are some general steps that are similar in each.
In order to be certain that you are meeting the requirements to form an LLC, be sure to check the requirements for your state in the following section.
1. Choose the state
Although this may seem as an easy question, there are certain things to consider before choosing the state you’ll be forming your LLC in.
First of all: do you do business mainly in your state, or do you sell products and services in other states?
If you have a small business and you sell your goods and services in one state, or mainly one state, you should form your LLC in that state.
However, if you do business in several states, you will be required to form your LLC in your state and register as a foreign LLC in every state that you do business, including applicable one-time and LLC annual fees.
If 80% of your business is in another state than where you are located, you may consider forming your LLC in that state.
2. Choose your LLC name
After you’ve chosen your state, you should consider what name you’d like to give your LLC.
Whatever it is, it should contain the phrase “LLC,” “Limited Liability Co.” or “Limited Liability Company” in order to communicate that your business is an LLC.
When you choose your business name, you should remember that you can use another name (trade name) in public. This is known as a “doing business as” (DBA) or fictitious name.
For example, if your LLC is named Action Figures LLC, you can have your shop named “Action Jackson” or any other name. For most states, you’ll simply need to file your DBA.
When choosing your LLC name, you need to make sure:
- your LLC name does not infringe on any trademark or service marks of other companies, as this may lead to legal complications
- your LLC does not have the same name as another company in the state you are registering or any of the other 49 states. This is important to remember, as the secretary of state’s office where you are registering your LLC will only have records for the state. You will need to do a search nation-wide to ensure you are not using a name (of an LLC, corporation or company) that’s already taken.
Restricted words require additional paperwork (e.g. Banc, Bank, Banque, etc) and/or licensed individuals (e.g. Doctor, Engineer, etc). to be part of the LLC.
Prohibited words are those that would confuse the name of your LLC with a federal or state agency e.g. FBI, Secret Service, Treasury etc.
3. Select your Registered Agent
Next you need to select a registered agent to receive all legal papers connected to your LLC.
This registered agent can be a person or another entity authorized to receive these legal papers. In other states, this person may be known as an agent for service of process, local agent, or resident agent.
The reason that you need such an agent is that the LLC is not a physical person, and therefore it would be impossible for an LLC to receive legal papers.
You will identify the registered agent in the article of organization, although the person can be changed later by filing a notice with the secretary of state.
Your registered agent can be a family member, company specializing in these services or corporate officer. The agent’s name will be made available for public record, and therefore anyone desiring anonymity should use professionals to perform this service.
Your agent can also be an attorney, which (along with a professional service) may be best suited to deal with the legal papers, tax forms, LLC report forms, etc., that a registered agent is necessary for.
4. File your Articles of Organization
Now it is important that you file official documentation known as articles of organization.
This is also known as the “certificate of formation” in Delaware, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey and Washing or “certificate of organization” in Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.
To file the articles of organization, you will need:
- your LLC name
- the name and address of your registered agent
- a statement of purpose for the LLC
- the names of the initial members or managers (optional, depending on your state)
The articles of organization is normally a one-page document that is quite straightforward to fill out.
However, it is best to check your secretary of state’s web site to see sample articles of organization and follow those recommendations if available.
5. Create your Operating Agreement
It is important, and highly recommended, that you create an operating agreement. This is an important document that contains the internal operations of the LLC, including:
- rules on holding meetings
- the powers of members and company manages
- voting
- elections
- quorums
This is an important document, and therefore should not be taken lightly. You and any co-owners should thoroughly go through the provisions contained in the operating agreement and fully understand them.
Although an operating agreement isn’t required in every state, it is not recommended to start an LLC without one for three main reasons.
- Misunderstandings and challenges will result if your start your LLC based on oral agreements alone.
- Your business is unique, and therefore needs a unique body of rules to help it operate at its optimal level. If you don’t adopt the operating agreement, you will have to follow the state’s default rules which may be too general for your business.
- The operating agreement will help protect members from personal liability related to the LLC. An LLC with an operating agreement will appear to be a separate entity and not a sole proprietorship or partnership.
In your operating agreement, you will need to cover the percentage of ownership of the LLC. How is it divided amongst the members?
Secondly, you should also note the distribute share of the LLC’s profits and losses. Normally this is equal to the percentage ownership.
6. Get your Employer Identification Number
For the most part, your LLC (as a legal entity) will be required to obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN or FEIN).
In those cases where the LLC has only a single member, no employees and no excise tax liability, the LLC will not need an EIN. Instead, the LLC will use the name and TIN of the owner.
However, for every other LLC, an EIN is required. Beyond the federal requirements, most banks will require you to give your EIN before you’ll be able to open a bank account for your LLC.
Although you can mail your SS-4 application form, fax it or call in to apply, it is much easier to fill it out online. After you’ve filled out your application and press submit, you’ll receive your EIN immediately.
VI. State Requirements to Form an LLC
Great, now that we’ve got all our basics of the LLC out of the way, let’s look at the specific requirements and costs to form an LLC for each state.
Alabama
Fees
- Certificate of Formation (Articles of Organization): $100, plus a minimum $50 for probate judge fee; additional $100 for expedited process
- Naming your LLC: $10 by mail reservations or $28 online
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $150 by post or mail; $260 online
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Alabama law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the secretary of state’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
In order to reserve your unique LLC name, you have to file the Name Reservation Request Form for Domestic Entities [pdf] for $28 online or $10 for mail reservations, with an optional $25 for expedited processing.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In Alabama, in order to file your Certificate of Formation [pdf] (similar to Articles of Organization), you don’t file with the secretary of state. You need to mail it to the Office of the Judge of Probate in the same county where your LLC’s registered office is.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Alabama
- an Alabama or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Alabama
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Alabama, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Alabama
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Alabama Secretary of State first.
To register online, you will have to pay a $260 fee, or you can register by mail for $150 and file two original copies of the Foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC) Application for Registration.
Alaska
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $250 by mail or online
- Naming your LLC: $25 by mail or online
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $350 by mail or online
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Alaska law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Department of Commerce’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
You can file online for $25 by clicking here.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Alaska, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to file with the State of Alaska Corporations. You can file this online or by mail for a fee of $250.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Alaska
- an Alaska or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Alaska with an Alaskan physical street address
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Alaska, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Alaska
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the State of Alaska Corporations Section. You can register online or file by mail for $350.
6. Other Requirements
All Alaskan businesses need to file an Initial Report (online or by mail) within 6 months of organization (no fee).
Additionally, every domestic or foreign LLC in Alaska needs to file a Biennial Report every 2 years online or by mail. The fee is $100 for domestic LLCs and $200 for foreign LLCs.
Arizona
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $50 (may be done online) and $35 optional expedite fee
- Naming your LLC: $10 by mail reservations or $45 online ($10 filing fee plus $35 expedite fee)
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $150 by mail or online (plus $35 optional expedite fee)
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Arizona law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” or “LC” must be included in the LLC name. Search through the Arizona Corporation Commission’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
The fee to file the Application to Reserve Limited Liability Company Name is $10 by mail or $45 online.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Arizona, in order to file your Articles of Organization [pdf], you need to file with the Arizona Corporation Commission. You can file this online or by mail for a fee of $50.
3. Appoint a Statutory Agent (Registered Agent)
Your statutory agent (another term for a registered agent) has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Arizona
- an Arizona or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Arizona with an Arizona physical street address
The statutory agent must first accept the appointment by filling in and submitting the Statutory Agent Acceptance form [pdf].
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Arizona, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Arizona
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Arizona Corporation Commission. You can register online or file by mail for $150.
6. Other Requirements
In Arizona, it is required that you publish the Articles of Organization in a newspaper with general circulation in the Arizona county where your principle business is located for 3 consecutive publications.
This must be done within 60 days of the Commission having approved your LLC’s Articles of Organization. Failing to do so means your LLC may be dissolved.
Arkansas
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $45 online or $50 with paper copies
- Naming your LLC: $25 by mail or $22.50 online
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $300 by post or mail; $270 online
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Arkansas law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” or “LC” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Professional LLCs must use “Professional Limited Liability Company,” “Professional Limited Company,” “P.L.L.C.,” “P.L.C.,” “PLLC,” or “PLC.” You may not use the name in your LLC of a non-member, unless that person is a deceased member. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Search through the Arkansas Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
The Application for Reservation of Limited Liability Company Name must be filed with the Arkansas Secretary of State for a fee of $25 by mail or $22.50 online.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Arkansas, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to file with the Arkansas Secretary of State. You can file this online or by mail for a fee of $45 online or $50 with paper copies.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Arkansas
- an Arkansas or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Arkansas with an Arkansas physical street address
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Arkansas, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Arkansas
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
You can register online for $270 or file by mail for $300.
California
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $70 by mail or $85 in-person
- Naming your LLC: $10 by mail [pdf] (online not available)
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $70 by mail or $85 in person
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Arkansas law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Furthermore, LLC’s cannot use the words “trust,” “trustee,” “bank,” “incorporated,” “Inc.,” “corporation,” “corp,” “insurance company,” “insurer” or anything related to the insurance business.
Additionally, names may not be the same as or similar to any existing name in the California Secretary of State database or be misleading to the public.
Search through the California Secretary of State’s business entity database by filing completed Name Availability Inquiry Letter [pdf] to ensure your name has not been taken.
The Name Reservation Request Form [pdf] must be filed for a fee of $10 by mail or in person.
2. File Articles of Organization
In California, in order to file your Articles of Organization [pdf], you need to mail it for $70 or submit it in person for an additional $15.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of California
- a California or out-of-state business authorized to do business in California with a California physical street address
If you use a corporate registered agent, the agent must have already filed a California Corporations Code Section 1505 Certificate [pdf] with the Secretary of State’s office
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in California, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in California
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the California Secretary of State.
You must submit the Application to Register a Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail for $70 or drop it off in person for an additional $15 fee.
6. Other Requirements
Under California law, LLC’s cannot provide professional services (any services requiring a professional state license).
Additionally, all domestic and foreign LLC’s registered in California need to file a Statement of Information with the California Secretary of State within 90 days of filing the LLC’s Articles of Organization. The filing fee is $20.
Colorado
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $50
- Naming your LLC: $25
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $100
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Colorado law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Ltd. Liability Company,” “Limited Liability Co.,” “Ltd. Liability Co.,” “Limited,” “Ltd.,” ”Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” or the abbreviation “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” “LLC,” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Search through the Colorado Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
The Statement of Reservation of Name must be filed online with the Colorado Secretary of State for a fee of $25.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Colorado, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it online for $50.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Colorado
- a Colorado or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Colorado with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Colorado, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Colorado
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Colorado Secretary of State. You must submit the Statement of Foreign Entity Authority online for $100.
Connecticut
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $120
- Naming your LLC: $60 by mail only
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $120
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Connecticut law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.” Search through the Connecticut Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
The Application for Reservation of Name [pdf] must be filed online with the Connecticut Secretary of State for a fee of $60 by mail only.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Colorado, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it online or by mail for $120.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Connecticut
- a Connecticut or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Connecticut with a physical address in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Connecticut, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Connecticut
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Connecticut Secretary of State. You must submit the Application for Registration, Limited Liability Company-Foreign online for $120.
Delaware
Fees
- Certificate of Formation (Articles of Organization): $90
- Naming your LLC: $75
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $200
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Delaware law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Delaware Secretary of State’s name availability search to ensure your name has not been taken.
The Application for Reservation of Limited Liability Company Name [pdf] must be filed online with the Delaware Secretary of State for a fee of $75.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In Delaware, in order to file your Certificate of Formation of a Limited Liability Company [pdf], you need to submit it for a fee of $90.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Delaware
- a Delaware or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Delaware with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Delaware, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Delaware
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Delaware Secretary of State. You must submit the Certificate of Registration of Foreign Limited Liability Company [pdf] for $200.
6. Other Requirements
Under Delaware law, all domestic and foreign LLCs operating in the state have to pay an annual $300 Alternative Entity Tax by June 1. The tax is to be paid yearly to the Delaware Division of Corporations Franchise Tax Section.
D.C. (District of Columbia)
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $220
- Naming your LLC: $50
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $220
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under D.C. law, the words “Limited Liability Company” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the District of Columbia Corporations Division of the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs (DCRA)’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you can file the Name Reservation Registration & Transfer online or by mail for a fee of $50.
2. File Articles of Organization
In D.C., in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it online or by mail for $220.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of D.C.
- a D.C. or out-of-state business authorized to do business in D.C. with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in D.C., although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Alabama
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the superintendent of Corporations of the District of Columbia Regulatory Affairs agency. You must submit the Foreign Registration Statement FN-1 online or by mail for $220.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in D.C. needs to file a Biennial Report every 2 years online or by mail. The fee is $300.
Florida
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $125
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $125
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Florida law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.C.” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Search through the Department of State: Division of Corporations’ business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
In order to reserve your LLC name, you must first submit your Articles of Organization.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Florida, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it online or by mail for $125.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Florida
- a Florida or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Florida with a usual place of business in the state
4. Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Florida, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Florida
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations. You must submit the Qualification of Foreign LLC online or by mail for $125.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Florida needs to file an Annual Report to remain active. This report must be filed online for a fee of $138.75 (with a $400 late fee for reports filed after May 1st).
Georgia
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $100
- Naming your LLC: $25
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $225
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Georgia law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC,” “Limited Company,” “LC,” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Search through the Georgia Secretary of State Corporations Division’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you can file the Name Reservation Request online or by mail for a fee of $25.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Georgia, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it online or by mail for $100. If filing by mail, you will also need to complete the Transmittal Information Georgia Limited Liability form.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Georgia
- a Georgia or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Georgia with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Georgia, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Georgia
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Georgia Secretary of State.
You must submit the Application for Certificate of Authority for Foreign Limited Liability Company online or by mail for $225.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Georgia needs to file an annual registration online for a fee of $50.
Hawaii
Fees
- Articles of Organization: $100, plus a minimum $50 for probate judge fee; additional $100 for expedited process
- Naming your LLC: $10
- Registering a Foreign LLC: $150 by post or mail; $260 online
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Hawaii law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Search through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name [pdf] online or by mail for a fee of $10.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Hawaii, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it online or by mail for $50.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Hawaii
- a Hawaii or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Hawaii with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Hawaii, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Hawaii
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs Business Registration Division.
You must submit the Application for Certificate of Authority (Form FLCC-1) online or by mail for $50.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Hawaii needs to file an annual report online or by mail for a fee of $15.
Idaho
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Idaho law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Idaho Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Reservation of Legal Entity Name [pdf] for a fee of $20.
2. File Certificate of Organization
In Idaho, in order to file your Certificate of Organization [pdf], you need to submit it for $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Idaho
- an Idaho or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Idaho with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Idaho, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Idaho
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with Idaho Secretary of State. You must submit a Foreign Registration Statement online or by mail for $100.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Idaho needs to file an annual report online for free.
Illinois
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Illinois law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name. “Ltd.” and “Co.” are not permitted, as well as “Corporation,” “Corp.,” “Incorporated,” “Inc.,” “Limited Partnership,” or “L.P.”
Search through the Illinois Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file Form LLC-1.15 for a fee of $300.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Illinois, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $600 online or $500 for paper filing.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Illinois
- an Illinois or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Illinois with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Illinois, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Illinois
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with Illinois Secretary of State. You must submit the Application for Admission to Transact Business, Form LLC-45.5 online or by mail for $500.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Illinois needs to file an annual report online for $300 or with paper for $250.
Indiana
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Indiana law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Indiana Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Exclusive Use of Corporate Name for a fee of $20 by mail or online.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Indiana, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $90 online or by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Indiana
- an Indiana or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Indiana with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Indiana, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Indiana
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with Indiana Secretary of State. You must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority of a Foreign Liability Company online or by mail for $90.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Indiana needs to file a Business Entity Report every 2 years for $30 by mail or $22.44 online.
Iowa
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Iowa law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated to “Ltd.” and “Company” to “Co.”
Search through the Iowa Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name for a fee of $10 by mail or online.
2. File Certificate of Organization
In Iowa, unlike with most states, you will have to create your own LLC Certificate of Organization. You may then upload it online or by mail for $50.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Iowa
- an Iowa or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Iowa with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Iowa, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Iowa
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Iowa Secretary of State. You must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority online or by mail for $90.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Indiana needs to file a Biennial Report every 2 years for $45 by mail or $30 online.
Kansas
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Kansas law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC,” “LC,” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Kansas Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Temporary Reservation of Business Entity Name for a fee of $35 by mail or online.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Kansas, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $165 online or by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Kansas
- an Kansas or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Kansas with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Kansas, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Kansas
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Kansas Secretary of State. You must submit a Foreign Limited Liability Company Application online or by mail for $165.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Kansas needs to file an Annual Report for $55 by mail or $50 online.
Kentucky
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Kentucky law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC” or “LC” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited Company” must be abbreviated to “LTD CO.”
Search through the Kansas Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Reservation or Renewal of Reserved Name for a fee of $15 by mail or online.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Kentucky, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $40 online or by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Kentucky
- a Kentucky or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Kentucky with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Kentucky, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Kentucky
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Kansas Secretary of State. You must submit a Certificate of Authority (Foreign Business Entity) online or by mail for $90.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Kentucky needs to file an Annual Report for $15.
Louisiana
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Louisiana law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Louisiana Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Name Reservation form for a fee of $25 by mail or online.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Louisiana, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $100 online or by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Louisiana
- a Louisiana or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Louisiana with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Louisiana, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Louisiana
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Louisiana Secretary of State. You must submit an Application of Foreign Limited Liability Company online or by mail for $150.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Louisiana needs to file an Annual Report for $30 online or by mail.
Maine
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Maine law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC,” “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Maine Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name for a fee of $20 by mail only.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In Maine, in order to file your Certificate of Formation, you need to submit it for $175 by mail only.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Maine
- a Maine or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Maine with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Maine, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Maine
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Maine Secretary of State. You must submit a Statement of Foreign Qualification to Conduct Activities online or by mail and costs $250.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Maine needs to file an Annual Report online or by mail and costs $85 for domestic LLCs and $150 for foreign LLCs.
Maryland
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Maryland law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC, “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Maryland Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Trade Name Application form for a fee of $25 by mail or in person, plus a $75 optional expedited fee.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Maryland, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $100 online or by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Maryland
- a Maryland or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Maryland with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Maryland, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Louisiana
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Maryland Secretary of State. You must submit Foreign Limited Liability Company Registration online or by mail for $100.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Maryland needs to file a Personal Property Return (which also serves as an annual report) for $300.
Massachusetts
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Massachusetts law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth Corporations Division’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name for a fee of $30 by mail only.
2. File Certificate of Organization
In Massachusetts, in order to file your Certificate of Organization, you need to submit it for $520 online or $500 by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Massachusetts
- a Massachusetts or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Massachusetts with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Massachusetts, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Massachusetts
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth Corporations Division.
You must submit a Foreign Limited Liability Company Application for Registration by fax for $520 or by mail for $500.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Massachusetts needs to file a Limited Liability Annual Report for domestic LLCs or Foreign Limited Liability Annual Report for foreign LLCs for $500 online or by mail.
Michigan
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Michigan law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs’ business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name for a fee of $25 by email or postal mail.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Michigan, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $50 by email or postal mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Michigan
- a Michigan or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Michigan with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Michigan, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Michigan
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.
You must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority to Transact Business in Michigan by email or postal mail for $50.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Michigan needs to file an annual statement with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs for $25 online or by mail.
Minnesota
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Minnesota law, the words “Limited Liability Company” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Minnesota Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file Name Reservation with the Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Business & Lien system for a fee of $35 by mail or $55 online or in person.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Minnesota, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you need to submit it for $155 online or in person or $135 by mail.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Minnesota
- a Minnesota or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Minnesota with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Minnesota, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Minnesota
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth Corporations Division.
You must submit a Certificate of Authority to Transact Business in MN (LLC) online and in person for $205 or by mail for $185.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Minnesota needs to file an annual renewal for $45 online and in person or $25 by mail.
Mississippi
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Mississippi law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.” or “LLC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must first register with the Mississippi Secretary of State’s online filing system for a fee of $25.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In Mississippi, in order to file your Certificate of Formation, you need to submit it through the state’s online filing system for a fee of $50.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Mississippi
- a Mississippi or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Mississippi with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Mississippi, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Mississippi
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Mississippi Secretary of State.
You must submit an Application for Registration of Limited Liability Company through the online filing system for a fee of $250. Additionally, foreign LLCs must file an Application for Appointment of Registered Agent of a Foreign LLC for a fee of $25.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Mississippi needs to file an annual report online. There is no charge for domestic LLCs, but foreign LLCs must pay $250.
Missouri
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Missouri law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC” or “LC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Missouri Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name (BE 1) by mail only for a fee of $25.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Missouri, in order to file your Articles of Organization (LLC 1), you can file it online for $50 (plus a $1.25 convenience fee) or through paper filings for $105.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Missouri
- a Missouri or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Missouri with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Missouri, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Missouri
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Missouri Secretary of State. You must submit an Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC 4) for a fee of $105.
Montana
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Montana law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LLC” or “LC” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Montana Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Reservation of Business Name by mail only for a fee of $10.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Montana, in order to file your Articles of Organization, you have to submit the document by mail for $70.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Montana
- a Montana or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Montana with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Montana, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Montana
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Montana Secretary of State.
You must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority of Foreign Limited Liability Corporation by mail only for a fee of $70.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Montana needs to file an Annual Report to stay in good standing either online or by mail. There is a $15 filing fee.
Nebraska
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Nebraska law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.,” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Nebraska Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Limited Liability Company Name by mail only for a fee of $15.
2. File Certificate of Organization
In Nebraska, unlike with other states, you have to create your own Certificate of Organization. It can then be submitted through postal mail or uploaded as a signed pdf online for a filing fee of $100 plus $5 per page.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Nebraska
- a Nebraska or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Nebraska with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Nebraska, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Nebraska
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
You must submit a Certificate of Authority of Foreign Limited Liability by mail or online for a fee of $110 plus $5 per page.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Nebraska needs to file a biennial report every 2 years either online or by mail. All LLCs must pay a $10 filing fee plus a $3 portal fee.
In Nebraska it is also required that you publish a notice of organization in a newspaper with general circulation in the Nebraska county where your principle business is located.
You must also file an affidavit of publication with the Nebraska Secretary of State. The affidavit can be submit by mail or uploaded online for a fee of $10 plus $5 per page.
Nevada
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Nevada law, the words “Limited-Liability Company,” “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “Limited,” “Ltd.,”“LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Company” can be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the Nevada Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Name Reservation Request online (using Silverflume) or by mail for a fee of $25.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Nevada, in order to file the Articles of Organization, you have to file online using Silverflume or by mail for a filing fee of $75.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Nevada
- a Nevada or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Nevada with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Nevada, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Nevada
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Nevada Secretary of State. You must submit an Application for Registration of Foreign Limited-Liability Company by mail only for a fee of $75.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Nevada needs to file an annual report that lists the LLC’s officers, directors, and registered agents (this is known as an “annual list”).
The report can be filed online using Silverflume or downloaded and mailed for a $150 filing fee.
New Hampshire
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under New Hampshire law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or a similar abbreviation must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the New Hampshire Secretary of State Corporation Division’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name by mail only for a fee of $15.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In New Hampshire, in order to file a Certificate of Formation of a New Hampshire Limited Liability Company, you have to file by mail with a filing fee of $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of New Hampshire
- a New Hampshire or out-of-state business authorized to do business in New Hampshire with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in New Hampshire, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in New Hampshire
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the New Hampshire Secretary of State.
You must submit an Application for Registration of Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail only for a fee of $100.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in New Hampshire needs to file an annual report for a filing fee of $100. The report can be filed online using NH QuickStart.
New Jersey
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under New Jersey law, the words “Limited Liability Company” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services’ business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name (UNRR-1) by mail only for a fee of $50.
2. File Public Records Filing
In New Jersey, in order to submit a Public Records Filing for New Business Entity, you have to file by mail with a filing fee of $125, or an additional $3.50 for filing online and paying by credit card.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of New Jersey
- a New Jersey or out-of-state business authorized to do business in New Jersey with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in New Jersey, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in New Jersey
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the New Jersey Secretary of State.
You must submit a Public Records Filing for New Business Entity by mail for a fee of $125 or online for an additional $3.50 if paying by credit card.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in New Jersey needs to file an annual report for a filing fee of $50. The report must be filed online using the New Jersey Division of Revenue On-line Corporate Annual Report page.
New Mexico
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under New Mexico law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” can be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the New Mexico Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Reservation of Limited Liability Company Name by mail only for a fee of $20.
2. File Articles of Organization
In New Mexico, in order to submit the Articles of Organization , you have to file by mail only with a filing fee of $50.
The document must be submitted along with a Statement of Acceptance of Appointment by Designated Registered Agent which is to be signed by the registered agent (and is included in the Articles of Organization document).
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of New Mexico
- a New Mexico or out-of-state business authorized to do business in New Mexico with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in New Mexico, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in New Mexico
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the New Jersey Secretary of State.
You must submit a Foreign Limited Liability Company Application for Registration by mail only for a fee of $100.
New York
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under New York law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the New York Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name by mail only for a fee of $20.
2. File Public Records Filing
In New York, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or online with a filing fee of $200.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of New York
- a New York or out-of-state business authorized to do business in New York with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
A written operating agreement is required in New York. It must be entered into before filing the Articles of Organization, at the same time as the filing, or within 90 days after the filing.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in New York
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the New York Department of State Division of Corporation.
You must submit an Application of Authority by mail for a fee of $250 by mail only.
6. Other Requirements
In New York it is required that you publish a notice concerning the formation of your LLC or a copy of the articles in 2 newspapers within 120 days after the articles have become effective.
You must also submit an affidavit of publication (provided to you by the printer or publisher after publication) with a Certificate of Publication to the New York Department of State Division of Corporation. The Certificate of Publication carries a $50 filing fee.
North Carolina
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under North Carolina law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “Ltd. Liability Co.,” “Limited Liability Co.” or “Ltd. Liability Company” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the North Carolina Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application to Reserve a Business Entity Name by mail only for a fee of $30.
2. File Articles of Organization
In North Carolina, in order to submit the Articles of Organization , you have to file by mail only with a filing fee of $120.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of North Carolina
- a North Carolina or out-of-state business authorized to do business in North Carolina with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in North Carolina, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in North Carolina
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the New Jersey Secretary of State.
You must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority For Limited Liability Company by mail only for a fee of $250.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in North Carolina needs to file an Annual Report for a filing fee of $200. The report must be filed online using the Secretary of State Online Annual Report Editor.
North Dakota
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under North Dakota law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the North Dakota Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Reserve Name Application (SFN 13015) by mail or fax for a fee of $10.
2. File Articles of Organization
In North Dakota, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or fax with a filing fee of $135.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of North Dakota
- a North Dakota or out-of-state business authorized to do business in North Dakota with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in North Dakota, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in North Dakota
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the North Dakota Secretary of State.
You must file a Certificate of Authority Foreign Limited Liability Company Application by mail or fax for a fee of $135.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in North Dakota needs to file an Annual Report for a filing fee of $50. The report must be filed online using the Secretary of State Business Records Search.
Ohio
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Ohio law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited,””Ltd.,” “Ltd,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Ohio Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Name Reservation by mail only for a fee of $39.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Ohio, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or onlinewith a filing fee of $99.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Ohio
- an Ohio or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Ohio with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Ohio, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Ohio
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Ohio Secretary of State.
You must file a Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail only for a fee of $99.
Oklahoma
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Oklahoma law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” can be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name by mail or through the Entity Filing webpage with a filing fee of $10.
2. File Articles of Organizaiton
In Oklahoma, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or through the Entity Filing webpage with a filing fee of $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Oklahoma
- an Oklahoma or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Oklahoma with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Oklahoma, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Oklahoma
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail or fax for a fee of $300.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in North Dakota needs to file an Annual Certificate for a filing fee of $25. The report may be filed by mail or online using the Secretary of State Entity Filing.
Oregon
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Oregon law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Oregon Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file through the Oregon Central Business Registry or by mail with a filing fee of $100.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Oregon, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or through the Oregon Central Business Registry webpage with a filing fee of $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Oregon
- an Oregon or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Oregon with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Oregon, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Oregon
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Oregon Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Authority to Transact Business–Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail or through the Oregon Oregon Central Business Registry web page for a fee of $275.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic or foreign LLC in Oregon needs to file an Annual Report for a filing fee of $100 for domestic LLCs and $275 for foreign LLCs.
The report may be filed by mail or online using the Secretary of State Business Registry Web Renewal webpage.
Pennsylvania
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Pennsylvania law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Company” or “Limited” (or an acceptable abbreviation of these) must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Pennsylvania Department of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Name Reservation or by mail or online with a filing fee of $70.
2. File Certificate of Organization
In Pennsylvania, in order to submit a Certificate of Organization, you have to file online or by mail for a filing fee of $125. The certificate must submitted along with a completed New Entity Docketing Statement.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Pennsylvania
- a Pennsylvania or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Pennsylvania with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Pennsylvania, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Pennsylvania
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
You must file a Foreign Registration Statement by mail or online for a fee of $250.
6. Other Requirements
Only foreign and certain professional LLCs in Pennsylvania need to file a Certificate of Annual Registration for an annual fee of $520 for each LLC member.
Rhode Island
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Rhode Island law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” (upper or lowercase abbreviations) must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Reservation of Entity Name by mail or online with a filing fee of $50.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Rhode Island, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file online or by mail for a filing fee of $150.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Rhode Island
- a Rhode Island or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Rhode Island with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Rhode Island, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Rhode Island
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Rhode Island Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Registration by mail only for a fee of $150.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Rhode Island needs to file a Limited Liability Company Annual Report for an annual filing fee of $50.
South Carolina
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under South Carolina law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” can be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the South Carolina Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application to Reserve Name by mail only with a filing fee of $25.
2. File Articles of Organization
In South Carolina, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file online or by mail for a filing fee of $110.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of South Carolina
- a South Carolina or out-of-state business authorized to do business in South Carolina with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in South Carolina, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in South Carolina
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for a Certificate of Authority to Transact Business by mail only for a fee of $110.
South Dakota
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under South Dakota law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” can be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the South Dakota Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name by mail only with a filing fee of $25.
2. File Articles of Organization
In South Dakota, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail only for a filing fee of $150.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of South Dakota
- a South Dakota or out-of-state business authorized to do business in South Dakota with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in South Dakota, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in South Dakota
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the South Dakota Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Certificate of Authority by mail only for a fee of $750.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in South Dakota needs to file an Annual Report for an annual filing fee of $50.
It can be filed online at the South Dakota Secretary of State website or by mail.
Tennessee
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Tennessee law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Tennessee Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Limited Liability Company Name by mail only with a filing fee of $20.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Tennessee, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail only for a filing fee of $50 for each LLC member (with a minimum of $300 and maximum of $3,000).
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Tennessee
- a Tennessee or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Tennessee with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Tennessee, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Tennessee
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Certificate of Authority by mail or online for a filing fee of $50 for each LLC member (with a minimum of $300 and maximum of $3,000).
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Tennessee needs to file an Annual Report for an annual filing fee of $50 for each LLC member (with a minimum of $300 and maximum of $3,000).
These reports may be filed online at the Tennessee Secretary of State website or by mail.
Texas
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Texas law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “LC.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” can be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” can be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the Texas Secretary of State’s SOSDirect website to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation or Renewal of Reservation of an Entity Name by mail or online through SOSDirect with a filing fee of $40.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In Texas, in order to submit the Certificate of Formation, you have to file by mail online through SOSDirect for a filing fee of $300.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Texas
- a Texas or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Texas with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Texas, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Texas
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Texas Secretary of State.
You must file an an Application for Registration of Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail only for a fee of $750.
Utah
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Utah law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,”“LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Utah Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must an Application for Reservation of Business Name by mail or through the Utah Online Business Registration with a filing fee of $22.
2. File Certificate of Organization
In Utah, in order to submit the Certificate of Organization, you have to file by mail or through Utah’s Online Business Registration website for a filing fee of $70.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Utah
- a Utah or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Utah with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Utah, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Utah
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
You must file a Foreign Registration Statement by mail or online for a filing fee of $70.
5. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Utah needs to file an Annual Renewal for an annual filing fee of $15. These reports may be filed online or by mail.
Vermont
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Vermont law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,”“LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” may be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the Vermont Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must an Application to Reserve a Specified Business Name by mail or online with a filing fee of $20.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Vermont, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or online for a filing fee of $125.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Vermont
- a Vermont or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Vermont with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Vermont, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Vermont
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Vermont Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Certificate of Authority by mail or online for a filing fee of $70.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Vermont needs to file an Annual Report for an annual filing fee of $35 for domestic LLCs and $140 for foreign LLCs.
These reports may be filed online or by mail.
Virginia
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Virginia law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,”“LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Virginia State Corporations Commission, Office of the Clerk’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must an Application for Reservation or for Renewal of Reservation of a Business Entity Name by mail only for a filing fee of $10.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Virginia, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or online t the Virginia New Entity Formation webpage for a filing fee of $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Virginia
- a Virginia or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Virginia with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Virginia, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Virginia
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Virginia State Corporations Commission.
You must file an Application for a Certificate of Registration to Transact Business in Virginia as a Foreign Limited Liability Company by mail or online for a filing fee of $100.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Virginia needs to pay a $50 annual registration fee. These fees may be paid online or by mail.
Washington
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Washington law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Liability Co.,”“LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Washington Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Name Reservation by mail only for a filing fee of $30.
2. File Certificate of Formation
In Washington, in order to submit a Certificate of Formation, you have to file by mail for $180 or online for a filing fee of $200.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Washington
- a Washington or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Washington with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Washington, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Washington
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Washington Secretary of State.
You must file a Foreign Limited Liability Company Registration by mail for $180 or online for a filing fee of $200.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Washington needs to file an annual renewal (also known as an annual report). This report must be filed online for a filing fee of $71.
West Virginia
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under West Virginia law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,”“LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” may be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the West Virginia Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Name Reservation by mail only for a filing fee of $15.
2. File Articles of Organization
In West Virginia, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail or online at the Business4wv website for a filing fee of $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of West Virginia
- a West Virginia or out-of-state business authorized to do business in West Virginia with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in West Virginia, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in West Virginia
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the West Virginia Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Certificate of Authority of Limited Liability Company by mail or online for a filing fee of $150.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in West Virginia needs to file an annual report. This report must be filed online for a filing fee of $25.
Wisconsin
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Wisconsin law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Liability Co.,”“LLC” or “L.L.C.” must be included in the LLC name.
Search through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions’ business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file a Name Reservation Application by mail only for a filing fee of $15.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Wisconsin, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail for $170 or online for a filing fee of $130.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Wisconsin
- a Wisconsin or out-of-state business authorized to do business in West Virginia with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Wisconsin, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Wisconsin
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
You must file a Foreign Limited Liability Company Certificate of Registration Application by mail or online only for a filing fee of $100.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Wisconsin needs to file an annual report. This report must be filed online for a filing fee of $25 for domestic LLCs and $80 for foreign LLCs.
Wyoming
Fees
1. Choose a Name for Your LLC
Under Wyoming law, the words “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,”“LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “LC” or “L.C.” must be included in the LLC name. “Limited” may be abbreviated as “Ltd.” and “Company” may be abbreviated as “Co.”
Search through the Wyoming Secretary of State’s business entity database to ensure your name has not been taken.
To register your LLC, you must file an Application for Reservation of Name by mail only for a filing fee of $50.
2. File Articles of Organization
In Wyoming, in order to submit the Articles of Organization, you have to file by mail only for a filing fee of $100.
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
Your registered agent has to be one of the following:
- a resident of Wyoming
- a Wyoming or out-of-state business authorized to do business in Wyoming with a usual place of business in the state
4. Prepare an Operating Agreement
The operating agreement is not required in Wyoming, although it is highly recommended.
5. Foreign LLCs Operating in Wyoming
If your LLC is registered in another state, you need to register as a foreign LLC with the Wyoming Secretary of State.
You must file an Application for Certificate of Authority by mail only for a filing fee of $150.
6. Other Requirements
Every domestic and foreign LLC in Wyoming needs to file an annual report. This report must be filed online.
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