How to Start an LLC in Connecticut
Last Updated: by the TRUiC Team
Start an LLC in Connecticut With These Five Easy Steps
- Step 1. Name Your Connecticut LLC
- Step 2. Choose a Registered Agent
- Step 3. File the Certificate of Organization
- Step 4. Create an Operating Agreement
- Step 5. Get an EIN
Or Simply use a professional service:
Starting an LLC in Connecticut Is Easy
To start an LLC in CT you'll need to file a Certificate of Organization with the Connecticut Secretary of State, which costs $120. You can apply online, by mail, or in person. The Certificate of Organization is the legal document that officially creates your Connecticut limited liability company.
Follow our step-by-step How to Start an LLC in Connecticut guide to get started today. You can learn more about LLCs and their benefits in our What Is an LLC guide. To learn how to form an LLC in Spanish, read our Cómo crear una LLC en Connecticut guide.
For more information on how to form an LLC in any state, visit our How to Start an LLC guide.
STEP 1: Name your Connecticut LLC
Choosing a company name is the first and most important step of forming an LLC in Connecticut. Be sure to choose a name that complies with Connecticut naming requirements and is easily searchable by potential clients.
1. Follow the naming guidelines:
- Your name must include the phrase “limited liability company” or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
- Your name cannot include words that could confuse your LLC with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
- Restricted words (e.g. Bank, Attorney, University) may require additional paperwork and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC.
- Your name must be distinguishable from any other Connecticut limited liability company, corporation, limited liability partnership, or limited partnership.
2. Is the name available in Connecticut? Make sure the name you want isn't already taken by doing a Business Registry Search on the Connecticut Secretary of State's website.
To learn more about searching for a Connecticut LLC name, read our full guide.
3. Is the URL available? We recommend that you check online to see if your business name is available as a web domain. Even if you don't plan to make a business website today, you may want to buy the URL in order to prevent others from acquiring it.
Now that you have verified your name and secured the URL you may select a professional service to complete the LLC formation process for you. We recommend using one of these professional services:
Tailor Brands ($35 + State Fees)
LegalZoom ($79 + State Fees)
STEP 2: Choose a Registered Agent in Connecticut
You are required to nominate a registered agent for your Connecticut LLC.
What is a registered agent? A registered agent is an individual or business entity responsible for receiving important tax forms, legal documents, notice of lawsuits, and official government correspondence on behalf of your business. Think of your registered agent as your business's point of contact with the state.
Who can be a registered agent? A registered agent must be a resident of Connecticut or a corporation, such as a registered agent service, authorized to transact business in Connecticut. You may elect an individual within the company including yourself.
Recommended: Northwest provides the first year of registered agent service free with LLC formation ($29 + State Fees)
STEP 3: File the Connecticut LLC Certificate of Organization
To register your Connecticut LLC, you will need to file the Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of State. You can apply online, by mail, or in person.
Now is a good time to determine whether your LLC will be member-managed vs. manager-managed.
You'll also need to know your NAICS Code for LLC number (Connecticut requires it).
File the Certificate of Organization
OPTION 1: File Online With the Connecticut Secretary of State
- OR -
OPTION 2: File by Mail or in Person
State Filing Cost: $120, payable to the Secretary of State. (Nonrefundable)
Mailing Address:
Business Service Division, Connecticut Secretary of the State
P.O. Box 150470
Hartford, CT 06115
Office Address:
Business Service Division, Connecticut Secretary of the State
30 Trinity St.
Hartford, CT 06106
For help with completing the form, visit our Connecticut Certificate of Organization guide.
If you’re expanding your existing LLC to the state of Connecticut, you will need to form a Foreign LLC.
Connecticut NAICS Requirement
When filing the Connecticut LLC formation documents you will see that you are required to include your NAICS code. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) consists of 6-digit codes given to a business depending on the type of trade it engages in. You can look up the NAICS code for your type of business by using our NAICS Code Lookup Tool.
STEP 4: Create a Connecticut LLC Operating Agreement
An operating agreement is not required for a Connecticut LLC, but it's a good practice to have one.
What is an operating agreement? An operating agreement is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating procedures of an LLC.
Why are operating agreements important? A comprehensive operating agreement ensures that all business owners are on the same page and reduces the risk of future conflict.
For more information on operating agreements, read our Connecticut LLC operating agreement guide.
Recommended: Download a template or create a Free Operating Agreement using our tool.
STEP 5: Get a Connecticut LLC EIN
What is an EIN? EIN stands for Employer Identification Number. EINs are a nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help identify businesses for tax purposes. It is essentially a Social Security number for a business.
An EIN is sometimes referred to as a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Federal Tax Identification Number (FTIN).
Why do I need an EIN? An EIN is required to:
- Open a business bank account
- File and manage Federal and State Taxes
- Hire employees
What if I already have an EIN for my sole proprietorship? The IRS requires that sole proprietorships get a new EIN when converting to an LLC.
Where do I get an EIN? You can get an EIN for free from the IRS. Getting an EIN is an easy process that can be done online or by mail.
FOR INTERNATIONAL EIN APPLICANTS: You do not need a SSN to get an EIN. For more information, read our How to Get an EIN as a Foreign Person guide.
Get an EIN
Option 1: Request an EIN from the IRS
- OR -
Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax
Mail to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Fax: (855) 641-6935
Fee: Free
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LLC?
LLC is short for Limited Liability Company. It is a simple business structure that offers more flexibility than a traditional corporation while providing many of the same benefits. An LLC is one of several business structures, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporation (C corp and S corp). For more information, read our What is an LLC guide.
Watch our video: What is an LLC?
How do I name my Connecticut LLC?
You must follow the Connecticut LLC naming guidelines when choosing a name for your LLC:
- Include the phrase "limited liability company" or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
- Do not use words that could confuse your business with a government agency (FBI, State Department, CIA, etc.).
- Receive the proper licensing when using the words such as lawyer or doctor.
If you are having trouble coming up with a name for your LLC use our LLC Name Generator. That will not only find a unique name for your business but an available URL to match.
After you get your business name, your next step is getting a unique logo. Get your unique logo using our Free Logo Generator.
Do I need to get a DBA or Trade Name for my business?
Most LLCs do not need a DBA. The name of the LLC can serve as your company’s brand name and you can accept checks and other payments under that name as well. However, you may wish to register a DBA if you would like to conduct business under another name.
To learn more about DBAs in your state, read our How to File a DBA guide.
Can I be my own registered agent in Connecticut?
Yes. You or anyone else in your company can serve as the registered agent for your Connecticut LLC.
Read more about being your own registered agent.
Is a registered agent service worth it?
Using a professional registered agent service is an affordable way to manage government filings for your Connecticut LLC. For most businesses, the advantages of using a professional service significantly outweigh the annual costs.
For more information, read our article on Connecticut registered agents.
How long does it take to set up an LLC in Connecticut?
Filing the Certificate of Organization takes about 3 to 5 business days, but can be expedited for an additional fee.
What is the difference between a domestic LLC and foreign LLC?
An LLC is referred to as a "domestic LLC" when it conducts business in the state where it was formed. Normally when we refer to an LLC we are actually referring to a domestic LLC. A foreign LLC must be formed when an existing LLC wishes to expand its business to another state.
Read our What Is a Foreign LLC article to learn more.
How much does it cost to start a Connecticut LLC?
The cost to start a Connecticut LLC is $120.
To learn more, read our guide on the cost to form a Connecticut LLC.
Do I need to file my operating agreement with the state of Connecticut?
No. The operating agreement is an internal document that you should keep on file for future reference. However, many states do legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement in place.
How do I get an EIN if I don’t have a Social Security number?
A social security number is not required to get an EIN. You can simply fill out IRS Form SS-4 and leave section 7b blank. Then call the IRS at (267) 941-1099 to complete your application. Learn more here about applying as an international applicant.
What tax structure should I choose for my Connecticut LLC?
When you get an EIN, you will be informed of the different tax classification options that are available. Most LLCs elect the default tax status.
However, some LLCs can reduce their federal tax obligation by choosing the S corporation (S corp) status. To learn more, read our LLC vs. S Corp guide.
Do I need an EIN for my LLC?
All LLCs with employees, or any LLC with more than one member, must have an EIN. This is required by the IRS.
Learn why we recommend always getting an EIN and how to get one for free in our Do I Need an EIN for an LLC guide.
What is the Connecticut Business Entity Tax?
There was a Business Entity Tax for each Connecticut LLC which varies depending upon your LLC’s income. This tax has been discontinued by the state.
What is the minimum wage in Connecticut?
The minimum wage in Connecticut is $14.00 per hour.
How often do I need to pay employees in Connecticut?
Connecticut requires wages to be paid monthly unless approved by the labor commissioner according to the Connecticut Department of Labor Wage Payment Laws.
Considering Using an LLC Formation Service?
We reviewed and ranked the top 5 LLC formation services.
Find out which is best for you.
Important Steps After Forming an LLC
Separate Your Personal and Business Assets
When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your Connecticut LLC is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing the corporate veil.
You can start protecting your LLC in Connecticut with these steps:
1. Opening a business checking account:
- Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
- Makes accounting and tax filing easier.
Need help finding your EIN for your bank application? Visit our EIN Lookup guide for help.
Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank, credit union, business-loan friendly banks, one with many brick-and-mortar locations, and more.
2. Getting a business credit card:
- Helps categorize and separate all business expenses for end-of-year tax purposes.
- Helps build your business credit score — an essential step toward getting a line of credit or business loan in the future.
- Allows you to keep track of department expenses by issuing multiple cards (with multiple budgets) to your employees.
For a closer look at business credit cards and their benefits, check out our review of the best small business credit cards.
Recommended: Visit Divvy to apply for their business credit card and build your business credit quickly.
3. Hiring a business accountant:
- Prevents your business from overpaying on taxes while helping you avoid penalties, fines, and other costly tax errors
- Makes bookkeeping and payroll easier, leaving you with more time to focus on your growing business
- Manages your business funding more effectively, discovering areas of unforeseen loss or extra profit
Recommended: Find out how much you could be saving today by trying our recommended accounting service.
For more business accounting tools, read our guide to the best business accounting software.
Get Business Insurance for Your Connecticut LLC
Business insurance helps you manage risks and focus on growing your business. The most common types of business insurance are:
- General Liability Insurance: A broad insurance policy that protects your business from lawsuits. Most small businesses get general liability insurance.
- Professional Liability Insurance: A business insurance for professional service providers (consultants, accountants, etc.) that covers claims of malpractice and other business errors.
- Workers' Compensation Insurance: A type of insurance that provides coverage for employees’ job-related illnesses, injuries, or deaths. In Connecticut, businesses with one or more employees, excluding officers and LLC members, are required by law to have workers' compensation insurance.
Ready to Protect Your Business?
Get the protection you need with a dedicated small business insurance provider. Find out how much insurance will cost you by getting a quote from our partners at Next Insurance.
Read our review of the best small business insurance companies.
Create Your Business Website
Creating a website is an important step in legitimizing your business. Every business needs a website if you want your customers to find you.
Recommended: Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders.
Send Out a Press Release
Press releases are among the easiest and best ways to promote your business. They are also one of the most cost-effective strategies as they:
- Provides publicity
- Establish your brand presence on the web
- Improve your website’s search engine optimization (SEO), driving more customers to your website
- Are a one-time cost in terms of effort and money
- Have long-lasting benefits
Read our review of the best press release services.
Keep Your Company Compliant
Connecticut LLC Business Permits and Licenses
To operate your Connecticut LLC you must comply with federal, state, and local government regulations. For example, restaurants likely need health permits, building permits, signage permits, etc.
The details of business licenses and permits vary from state to state. Make sure you read carefully. Don't be surprised if there are short classes required as well.
Fees for business licenses and permits will vary depending on what sort of license you are seeking to obtain.
Find out how to obtain necessary licenses and permits for your business or have a professional service do it for you:
- Business License Guide: Use our detailed Connecticut Business License guide.
- Federal: Use the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guide.
- State: Apply for or learn more about licenses and registration with Connecticut Official State Page.
- Local: Contact your local county clerk and ask about local licenses and permits.
Recommended: If you are a first-time entrepreneur, consider having a professional service research your business’s licensing requirements. Read our best business license services review on Startup Savant.
Connecticut LLC Tax Filing Requirements
Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to register for one or more forms of state tax.
Connecticut Sales Tax
If you are selling a physical product, you’ll typically need to register for a seller's permit through the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
This certificate allows a business to collect sales tax on taxable sales.
Sales tax, also called "Sales and Use Tax," is a tax levied by states, counties, and municipalities on business transactions involving the exchange of certain taxable goods or services.
Read our Connecticut sales tax guide to find out more.
Connecticut Employer Taxes
If you have employees in Connecticut, you will need to register for Unemployment Insurance Tax with the Connecticut Department of Labor Tax and Benefits System and Employee Withholding Tax with the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services.
Register for Connecticut State Taxes
Federal LLC Tax Filing Requirements
Most LLCs will need to report their income to the IRS each year using:
- Form 1065 Partnership Return (most multi-member LLCs use this form)
- Form 1040 Schedule C (most single-member LLCs use this form)
How you pay yourself as an owner will also affect your federal taxes. Visit our guide to learn more about how to pay yourself from your LLC.
Read our LLC Tax Guide to learn more about federal income taxes for LLCs.
Connecticut Business Entity Tax
Going forward, the State of Connecticut no longer requires businesses to pay the biennial Business Entity Tax (BET). The final due date for returns was March 15, 2020.
File Your Connecticut LLC Annual Report
Connecticut requires LLCs to file an annual report with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
File Your Annual Report
File an Annual Report Online With the Connecticut Secretary of State
Fee: $80 (Nonrefundable)
Due Date: Due by March 31 of every year.
Late Filings: While there are no late fees, any annual report received after March 31 will give your LLC a “Not in Good Standing” status. Connecticut may dissolve your LLC after 1 year for failure to file an annual report.
Avoid Automatic Dissolution
LLCs may face fines and even automatic dissolution when they miss one or more state filings. When this happens, LLC owners risk loss of limited liability protection. A quality registered agent service can help prevent this outcome by notifying you of upcoming filing deadlines and by submitting reports on your behalf.
Recommended: ZenBusiness offers a reliable registered agent service and excellent customer support. Learn more by reading our ZenBusiness Review.
Hiring Employees in Connecticut
If you plan to hire employees for your Connecticut LLC, stay compliant with the law by following these steps:
- Verify that new employees are able to work in the US
- Report employees as "new hires" to the State
- Provide workers' compensation insurance for employees
- Withhold employee taxes
- Print workplace compliance posters and place them in visible areas of your workspace
Find more information at Connecticut's Department of Labor.
Recommended: Check out our Hiring for your Small Business Guide for resources like sample job descriptions, payroll service reviews, and more.
Small Business Resources
Get Help Starting a Business in Connecticut
We understand that creating an LLC and getting your business up and running comes with many challenges. To help you succeed, we compiled the best local resources in every major metro area in Connecticut. You can get free assistance in the following areas:
Hartford | New Haven | Stamford
State of Connecticut Quick Links
More Connecticut LLC Information
Connecticut Foreign LLCs
Forming a foreign LLC allows your company to operate as one entity in multiple states. If you have an existing LLC and want to do business in Connecticut, you will need to register as a foreign LLC. This can be done by mail or in person.
Register as a Foreign LLC in Connecticut
OPTION 1: File Online With the Connecticut Secretary of State
- OR -
OPTION 2: File by Mail or In Person
Fee: $120 (Nonrefundable)
Mailing Address:
Commercial Recording Division
Connecticut Secretary of the State
P.O. Box 150470
Hartford, CT 06115
Office Address:
Commercial Recording Division
Connecticut Secretary of the State
30 Trinity St.
Hartford, CT 06106
How to Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Connecticut
A Certificate of Good Standing, known in Connecticut as a Certificate of Legal Existence, verifies that your Connecticut LLC was legally formed and has been properly maintained. Several instances where you might need to get one include:
- Seeking funding from banks or other lenders
- Forming your business as a foreign LLC in another state
- Obtaining or renewing specific business licenses or permitsupdates
You can order a Connecticut LLC Certificate of Legal Existence online or by mail.
Order a Certificate of Legal Existence
OPTION 1: Request a Certificate Online Through the Connecticut Secretary of State
- OR -
OPTION 2: Request a Certificate by Mail or In Person
Fee: $50 (Nonrefundable)
Mailing Address:
Commercial Recording Division
Connecticut Secretary of State
P.O. Box 150470
Hartford, CT 06115-0470
Office Address:
Commercial Recording Division
Connecticut Secretary of the State
30 Trinity St.
Hartford, CT 06106
How to Dissolve an LLC in Connecticut
If at any point in the future you no longer wish to conduct business with your Connecticut LLC, it is important to officially dissolve it. Failure to do so in a timely fashion can result in tax liabilities and penalties, or even legal trouble. To dissolve your Connecticut LLC, there are two broad steps:
- Close your business tax accounts
- File the Connecticut Articles of Dissolution
When you are ready to dissolve your LLC, follow the steps in our Connecticut LLC Dissolution Guide.