How to Start an LLC in Indiana

Step 1: Name Your Indiana LLC

First, you need to choose a name for your Indiana LLC. 

Your business name should be both memorable and easily searchable while complying with the state’s business naming requirements.

1. Important Naming Guidelines for Indiana LLCs:

• Your name must include the phrase “Limited Liability Company” or the abbreviations “LLC” or “L.L.C.” 
• Your name cannot include words that may imply that your LLC is affiliated with a government agency.
• Restricted words (e.g., Bank, Attorney, University) may require written approval and/or and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC. 
• Master LLCs must contain the phrase “Limited Liability Company-S” or one of the following abbreviations: “LLC-S”, “L.L.C.-S.”

For more information, we recommend having a look at Indiana’s Naming Guidelines. 

2. Conduct a Business Name Search in Indiana

To check whether your desired name has already been taken by another business entity in Indiana, you can perform a business entity search on the State of Indiana website.

If you’re not going to start your LLC right away, it might be a good idea to consider reserving your name for up to 120 days ($10 processing fee).

3. Conduct a Domain Name Search

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 right away, this is an extremely important step as it will prevent others from acquiring it.

Once you have verified your name is available, you may now select a professional service to complete the LLC formation process for you.

FAQ: Naming an Indiana LLC

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent in Indiana

After you find the right name for your LLC, you will need to nominate an Indiana registered agent. This is a requirement for all LLCs in Indiana.

What is a registered agent? A registered agent is an individual or business entity responsible for receiving important legal documents on behalf of your business. Think of your registered agent as your business’s primary point of contact with the state.

Who can be a registered agent? A registered agent must be a resident of Indiana or a corporation – such as a registered agent service, individual (e.g., yourself, etc.), or an attorney – that is authorized to transact business in Indiana. 

FAQ: Nominating a Registered Agent

Step 3: File Your Indiana LLC Articles of Organization

To register your Indiana LLC, you will need to file the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State Business Services Division. You can do this online or by mail.

Before filing, make sure you have completed your Articles of Organization correctly. You will need to have the following information: 

• The name of your LLC
• Your address of principal office
• Your registered agent’s name and address  (i.e., noncommercial or commercial)
• Your LLC’s duration (if not perpetual) 
• Your LLC’s management structure (e.g., member-managed or manager-managed, etc.)

File the Articles of Organization

OPTION 1: File Online With the Indiana Secretary of State

File Online

– OR –

OPTION 2: File Form 49459 by Mail

Download Form

State Filing Cost: $96 online total, or $100 by mail (nonrefundable)

Mailing Address:
Secretary of State
Business Services Division
302 W. Washington St.
Room E-018
Indianapolis, IN 46204

For help with completing the form, visit our Indiana Articles of Organization guide.

If you’re expanding your existing LLC to the state of Indiana, you will need to form a foreign limited liability company (LLC).

FAQ: Filing Indiana LLC Documents

Step 4: Create an Indiana Operating Agreement

An operating agreement is not required in Indiana, but it’s a good practice to have one.

An operating agreement is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating procedures of an LLC.

A comprehensive operating agreement ensures that all LLC members are on the same page and reduces the risk of future conflict. This is important even if you’re starting out as a single-member LLC.

You can use the free tool in our Business Center to create a custom operating agreement in minutes — or download our free templates:

• Indiana Single-Member LLC Operating Agreement
• Indiana Multi-Member LLC Operating Agreement

FAQ: Creating an Indiana LLC Operating Agreement

Step 5: Get an Indiana LLC EIN

You can get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for free. It is used to identify a business entity and keep track of a business’s tax reporting. You can think of an EIN as a Social Security number (SSN) for the company.

Why do I need an EIN? An EIN is required for the following:

• To open a business bank account for the company
• For federal and state tax purposes
• To hire employees for the company

Where do I get an EIN? An EIN is obtained from the IRS (free of charge) by the business owner after forming the company. This can be done online or by mail.

FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS: You do not need an SSN to get an EIN. Learn more here.

Get an EIN

Option 1: Request an EIN from the IRS

Apply Online

– OR –

Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax

Download Form

Mail to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999

Fax: (855) 641-6935

Fee: Free

FAQ: Getting an EIN

Best LLC Services in Indiana Compared

For a comprehensive comparison, read our Best LLC Services review. We reviewed and ranked the top LLC formation services to help you determine the best fit for your new business. 

Important Next Steps to Protect Your Indiana LLC

After you’ve formed your LLC, you’ll need to complete key steps in order to:

• Separate your personal and business assets
• Stay compliant with state and federal laws

Get a Business Bank Account & Credit Card

Using a dedicated business banking account and business credit card is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your LLC is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil.

You can protect your business with these two steps:

1. Opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company’s assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

2. Getting a business credit card:

• Helps you separate personal and business expenses.
• Builds your company’s credit history, which can be useful to raise capital later on.

Get Insurance

Even though an LLC offers limited liability, you’ll still likely need to purchase some form of business insurance to protect your LLC’s assets. The most common types 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 your LLC against 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 Indiana, businesses with one or more employees, including LLC members and corporate officers, are required by law to have workers’ compensation insurance.

Want to learn exactly what coverage your Indiana business may need? Read our full Indiana Business Insurance Guide.

Obtain Business Licenses If Needed

While Indiana doesn’t require a general state business license, your LLC may need specific licenses or permits based on its industry, location, and activities.

• State-Level Licenses: Use the state’s Business Owner’s Guide to determine if your business requires any state-issued licenses or permits.
• Local Licenses: Check with your city or county clerk’s office to identify any local licensing requirements, such as zoning permits or health department approvals.
• Federal Licenses: If your business activities are regulated by a federal agency (e.g., selling alcohol or firearms or operating in the transportation industry), consult the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website to determine the necessary federal licenses or permits.

For a comprehensive overview and step-by-step instructions, refer to our Indiana Business License Guide.