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Each state has specific guidelines for forming a business. Use the dropdown to learn more about the necessary steps for the state you’d like to form in.
Register an LLC in 6 Simple Steps
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most popular choice for a forming a business because it provides the right balance of personal asset protection and simplicity. An LLC also offers flexibility in taxation and management.
Before you begin the LLC formation process, choosing the state where you want to register your business is essential. In most cases, it’s best to form your LLC in the state where you live and plan to conduct business.
Step 1: Name Your LLC
Select a unique name for your LLC that complies with your state’s naming requirements. Conduct a name search to ensure your desired name isn’t already taken and consider any restricted words that may require additional paperwork.
Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
Designate a registered agent to receive important legal documents on behalf of your LLC. This can be an individual or a professional service, but they must have a physical address in the state where you’re registering.
Step 3: File Articles of Organization
Submit your LLC’s formation documents, called Articles of Organization (or Certificate of Formation/Organization in some states), to your state’s business division. This step officially creates your LLC.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
Draft an operating agreement to outline your LLC’s ownership structure, member roles, and management style. While not always required by law, an operating agreement is crucial for preventing disputes and ensuring smooth operations.
Step 5: Obtain an EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This unique number is essential for opening business bank accounts, hiring employees, and filing taxes.
Step 6: File a BOI Report
Starting January 1, 2024, most LLCs will need to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report with FinCEN within 90 days of formation. This free, online report helps combat illegal activities and includes details about your LLC and its members.
By following these six steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching your new business venture in your chosen state. Visit the other pages on our site for more detailed information and state-specific guidance to ensure your LLC is set up for success.
Remember, while it’s possible to complete the registration process independently, many entrepreneurs find peace of mind in working with a professional LLC formation service. These providers can handle the paperwork and ensure everything is filed accurately, giving you more time to focus on growing your business.
Take the first step today and start your journey toward owning a thriving LLC!
Learn The Basics
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the benefits of owning an LLC?
In an LLC, members are not held liable for the company’s actions. Personal assets like cars, homes, and investments are protected from lawsuits face by the company. Profits in an LLC are taxed through members’ individual tax returns instead of being taxed at the company level, so avoiding double taxation.
What is needed to start an LLC?
Before forming your LLC, you should have a business name that is not already in use by another business, a registered agent who can act as the company’s point of contact, and completed Articles of Organization, or formation documents, filed with the secretary of state.
How do you name your LLC?
Most states require your business name to be unique and comply with their naming guidelines. Review your state’s requirements and conduct an LLC name search on the state’s business directory to ensure name availability.
What is a registered agent?
An LLC has to nominate a registered agent who will receive legal documents on behalf of the LLC. These legal documents might include things like formation documents, tax notices, or service of process paperwork. A registered agent can be a suitable individual/member of the LLC or another company, learn more here.
What’s an operating agreement?
An operating agreement outlines the ownership and operating procedures of a limited liability company (LLC). While an operating agreement is not legally required, we strongly recommend every LLC to have a formal LLC Operating Agreement in place.
What is an EIN and does my LLC need one?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a social security number for your business. An EIN is required to open a Business Bank Account, hire employees, etc.
Do LLCs have double taxation?
No. Corporations are taxed twice, the company is taxed on its profits and then when the owners are distributed a dividend, the profit is taxed yet again on the owner’s personal taxes. With an LLC, the profits are passed through to the owner’s personal income tax. There are no taxes at the business level, so an LLC is not subject to double taxation.