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Start an LLC in North Carolina with these Five Easy Steps
Starting an LLC in North Carolina is easy
To form an LLC in North Carolina you will need to file the Articles of Organization with the North Carolina Secretary of State, which costs $125. You can apply online or by mail. The Articles of Organization is the legal document that officially creates your North Carolina Limited Liability Company.
Follow the step-by-step guide below to start your North Carolina LLC today and get your business up and running.
STEP 1: Name your North Carolina LLC
Choosing a company name is the first and most important step to starting an LLC in North Carolina. Be sure to choose a name that complies with North Carolina 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 North Carolina limited liability company, corporation, limited liability partnership, or limited partnership.
For a complete list of naming rules in North Carolina, you can read the North Carolina Secretary of State's guidelines.
2. Is the name available in North Carolina? Make sure the name you want isn't already taken by doing a name search on the State of North Carolina's website.
3. Is the URL available? We recommend that you check 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.
After registering a domain name, consider setting up a professional email account (@yourcompany.com). Google's G Suite offers a business email service that comes with other useful tools, including word processing, spreadsheets, and more. Try it for free
Not sure what to name your business? Check out our LLC Name Generator. Then, create a logo with our Free Logo Generator.
FAQ: Naming an LLC in North Carolina
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?
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.
STEP 2: Choose a Registered Agent in North Carolina
You are required to nominate a registered agent for your North Carolina 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 North Carolina or a corporation, such as a registered agent service, authorized to transact business in North Carolina. You may elect an individual within the company including yourself.
Recommended: ZenBusiness provides the first year of registered agent service free with LLC formation ($39 + State Fees)
FAQ: Nominating a North Carolina LLC Registered Agent
Can I be my own registered agent in North Carolina?
Yes. You or anyone else in your company can serve as the registered agent for your 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 North Carolina LLC. For most businesses, the advantages of using a professional service significantly outweigh the annual costs.
For more information, read our article on North Carolina registered agents.
STEP 3: File the North Carolina LLC Articles of Organization
To register your North Carolina LLC, you will need to file the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. You can apply online by uploading a PDF form or file by mail. Some states refer to the Articles of Organization as the Certificate of Formation or Certificate of Organization.
The North Carolina Articles of Organization for an LLC (limited liability company) is a legal document to officially form your business. You’ll be expected to provide the name of the LLC, the name and address of the registered agent, your starting date, and the state filing fee. After you file the Articles of Organization, we recommend you obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if you plan to hire employees and open a business bank account.
Now is a good time to consider whether your North Carolina LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed. We recommend learning more about member-managed vs manager-managed LLCs before you file.
File the Articles of Organization
Option 1: Download PDF Form to File by Mail (or Online)
- OR -
OPTION 2: Create Account and Upload PDF Online with NC Secretary of State
State Filing Cost: $125, made payable to N.C. Secretary of State (Nonrefundable)
Mail to:
The Secretary of State
Business Registration Division
P.O. Box 29622
Raleigh, NC 27626
If you’re expanding your existing LLC to the State of North Carolina, you will need to form a Foreign LLC.
FAQ: Filing North Carolina LLC Documents
How long does it take to form an LLC in North Carolina?
Filing the Articles of Organization can take up to two weeks, 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 North Carolina LLC?
The cost to start a North Carolina LLC is $125.
To learn more, read our guide on the cost to form a North Carolina LLC.
STEP 4: Create a North Carolina LLC Operating Agreement
In North Carolina, LLCs are not required to have an operating agreement, 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, read our North Carolina LLC operating agreement guide.

Recommended: Download a template or create a Free Operating Agreement using our tool.
FAQ: Creating a North Carolina LLC Operating Agreement
Do I need to file my operating agreement with the state?
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.
STEP 5: Get a North Carolina 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
FAQ: Getting a North Carolina LLC EIN
How do I get an EIN if I don’t have a social security number?
An SSN 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 about international applicants here.
What tax structure should I choose for my North Carolina 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.
Have a question? Leave a Comment!
Ask us a question, tell us how we're doing, or share your experiences. Join the conversation in our Comment Section.

Considering Using an LLC Formation Service?
We reviewed and ranked the top 5 LLC formation companies.
Find out which is the best LLC services 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 North Carolina LLC is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing the corporate veil.
You can start protecting your LLC in North Carolina 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 you separate personal and business expenses.
- Builds your company's credit history, which can be useful to raise capital (e.g., small business loans and small business grants) later on.

Recommended: Learn more about the best small business credit cards.
For other important steps to protect your corporate veil, like properly signing legal documents and documenting company business, please read our corporate veil article.
Find a Business Accountant
One of the main reasons that LLC’s make great business structures is the benefits of pass-through taxation and the ability to write off business expenses. Having a business-savvy accountant to help you with your small business accounting and take advantage of these benefits can literally save you and your business thousands of dollars in taxes each year.
Along with the obvious benefit of massive tax savings, a business accountant can help you to:
- Track business expenses and reconcile your bank accounts
- Discover areas of unforeseen loss or extra profit in your business
- Run payroll for you and your employees
- Prepare and submit your quarterly tax filings
- Advise on advanced business strategies for even deeper tax savings
- Avoid costly errors and ensure your business stays on the good side of the IRS
Starting a relationship with an accountant gives you a head start when it comes to running your business and keeps your finances clean in the future.
However, if you would like to run your own accounting, read our review of the best accounting software for small business.

Recommended: Get a free tax consultation and speak with a business accountant today.
Get Business Insurance for Your North Carolina 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 North Carolina, businesses with three or more employees, excluding business owners, are required by law to have workers' compensation insurance.
Read our review of the best small business insurance companies.
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

Recommended: TRUiC has negotiated a 25% discount for you on a service that will write and distribute press releases for you.
Read our review of the best press release distribution services.
Join the Conversation
We are here to guide you through your entrepreneurial journey, and are always looking at your feedback. Share your experiences in our comment box, chat with other entrepreneurs, or simply let us know how we're doing.
Keep Your Company Compliant
North Carolina LLC Business Permits & Licenses
Does my North Carolina LLC need business licenses and permits?
To operate your North Carolina 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:
- Federal: Use the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) guide.
- State: Use North Carolina's Business Development Website.
- 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.
North Carolina 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.
North Carolina Sales Tax
If you are selling a physical product, you’ll typically need to register for a seller's permit through the North Carolina Department of Revenue website.
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 North Carolina sales tax guide to find out more.
North Carolina Employer Taxes
If you have employees in North Carolina, you will need to register for Unemployment Insurance Tax through the North Carolina Division of Employment Security. You will also need to sign up for Employee Withholding Tax through the North Carolina Department of Revenue.
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.
File Your North Carolina LLC Annual Report
North Carolina requires all LLCs to file an annual report. This form can be submitted online or by mail.
File your Annual Report
OPTION 1: File Online with the State of North Carolina
- OR -
OPTION 2: File by Mail
Fee: $200 (Nonrefundable)
Mail to:
Secretary of State
P.O. Box 29525
Raleigh, NC 27626
Due Date: Due each year by April 15th.
Late Filings: North Carolina does not charge late fees if you miss your filing deadline. North Carolina will dissolve your LLC within 60 days 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 the 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.
Hiring Employees for Your North Carolina LLC
If you plan to hire employees for your North Carolina 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 out more information from North Carolina'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.
FAQ: Hiring Employees for Your North Carolina LLC
What is the minimum wage in North Carolina?
The minimum wage in North Carolina is $7.25 per hour.
How often do I need to pay employees in North Carolina?
North Carolina allows wages to be paid on regular paydays either daily, weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly.
Get Help Starting a Business in North Carolina
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 North Carolina. You can get free assistance in the following areas:
Asheville | Charlotte | Fayetteville | Greensboro | Raleigh | Wilmington
Small Business Resources
Women in Business Tools and Resources
If you have a woman-owned business, many resources are available to help you concentrate on your business’s growth:
- Funding - (ie. grants, investors, loans)
- Events - (ie. conferences, meetups)
- Guides - (ie. business formation, personal growth)
- Support - (ie. advice, communities, business strategies)
Our information and tools will provide educational sources, allow you to connect with other women entrepreneurs, and help you manage your business with ease.
Free LLC Legal Forms
TRUiC offers a number of free LLC legal forms to help with creating documents like:
- Operating agreements
- LLC resolutions
- Hiring documents, including:
- Employment contracts
- Independent contractor service agreements (ICSA)
- Non-disclosure agreements (NDA)
All you’ll need to do to download the forms is sign up for the TRUiC Business Center, which is also free, forever.
How to Make a Website
Check out our how to build a website guide to learn how creating a website isn’t as difficult as it might seem. With the right tools, a good guide, and a bit of patience, you can learn how to make a website for your business in no time.

Recommended: Read our review to find the best website builder for small business.
How to Build Business Credit
Learning how to build business credit can help you get credit cards and other business funding options in your business's name (instead of yours), with better interest rates, higher lines of credit, and more.
TRUiC’s Small Business Tools
TRUiC believes business tools should be free and useful. Our tools help solve business challenges, from finding an idea for your business, to creating a business plan, writing an operating agreement for your LLC, and more.
Check out TRUiC’s small business tools:
Video Guides
TRUiC has created video guides to support and reinforce our on-page guides. These videos help to visualize the ideas and lessons that you need to know to create and run a successful business.
How to Form a North Carolina LLC Video Playlist
Business Ideas Video Playlist
Check out our growing library of small business videos on the TRUiC YouTube channel.
More North Carolina LLC Information
North Carolina 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 North Carolina, you will need to register as a foreign LLC. This can be done by mail or online.
Register as a Foreign LLC in North Carolina
OPTION 1: File Online with the State of North Carolina
- OR -
OPTION 2: File by Mail
Fee: $250 payable to the Secretary of State (Nonrefundable)
Mail to:
The Secretary of State
Business Registration Division
P.O. Box 29622
Raleigh, NC 27626
How to Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in North Carolina
A Certificate of Good Standing, known in North Carolina as a Certificate of Existence, verifies that your 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 permits
You can order a North Carolina LLC Certificate of Existence online.
Order a Certificate of Existence
Request a Certificate of Existence Online
Fee: $15 payable to the Secretary of State (Nonrefundable)
How to Dissolve an LLC in North Carolina
If at any point in the future you no longer wish to conduct business with your North Carolina 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 North Carolina LLC, there are two broad steps:
- Close your business tax accounts
- File the North Carolina Articles of Dissolution
When you are ready to dissolve your LLC, follow the steps in our North Carolina LLC Dissolution Guide.
Read More about LLCs & How to Run a Business
State of North Carolina Quick Links
North Carolina SOS Corporations Division
Key Terms for Entrepreneurs
LLC: An LLC is a US business structure that offers the personal liability protection of a corporation with the pass-through taxation of a sole proprietorship or partnership.
DBA: A DBA, or doing business as name, is any name a business operates under that isn't its legal name.
Partnership: A partnership is an informal business structure owned by more than one individual that doesn't provide personal liability protection.