Costs to Form a Texas LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Texas, file the Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $300.

Approval for the LLC is typically around one week.

If you have questions, contact the Texas Secretary of State.
Phone: 512-463-5555
Email: corpinfo@sos.texas.gov

Steps to Form a Texas LLC

Step 1: Create an Account

The LLC can be created by mail, fax, or online.  This guide shows how to create the LLC online, which is the fastest of the three ways. Begin by creating an account on the SOSDirect, which is the Secretary of State’s website to file online or download the Texas LLC Certificate of Formation (Form 205).

Step 2: Name the LLC

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  Be sure to run a Texas LLC name search with the Secretary of State to ensure the one you want is available.

The name of the LLC must also include a designator at the end of the business name, which is one of the following words or abbreviations that describes what type of business entity it is. Available designators include:

• Limited Liability Company
• Limited Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• L.C.
• LC

Other naming guidelines include restrictions on using terms such as insurance, bail bonds, surety, bank, trust, engineer, architect, interior design, college, university, veteran, Olympic several others unless registered with the state to provides those services.

If you plan to use a different name from the legal name that you register (perhaps you want to run multiple businesses under the LLC), you can use an assumed name (sometimes referred to as a fictitious business name, trade name, DBA, or Doing Business As name).  To register the name file an Assumed Name Certificate with the county clerk in the county where the LLC is located.

If there is a name you want, but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Name Reservation Form (Form 501). The name reservation will hold a name for up to 120 days, at a cost of $40.

Step 3: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in Texas, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Registered Agent can either be a Registered Agent service or provider like an accountant or attorney (Select “Organization”) or a resident of Texas (Select “Individual).  Texas law requires that the agent has a registered office with a physical street address in the state (Post Office Boxes are not allowed), is available during normal business hours, and will be the central point of contact for service of process to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 4: Governing Authority

This article is asking if the LLC is Member-Managed or Manager-Managed.

• Manager-Managed LLCs are hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.  This is generally used when there are passive members in the LLC, and the members do not actively manage or operate in the affairs of the business.
• Member-Managed LLCs have an active involvement in the management and have the authority to act on behalf of the LLC.

Enter the name of each of the governing persons.

Step 5: Purpose

This article asks for some basic information about what the business does.  Sticking with the standard language “The purpose for which the company is formed is for the transaction of any and all lawful purposes for which a limited liability company may be organized under the Texas Business Organizations Code.” keeps the business purpose open-ended and allows an LLC to operate in any type of business as long as it is legal.

Step 6: Supplemental Provisions/Information

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 7: Organizer Information

An LLC Organizer is someone involved with the formation of the Certificate of Formation.  The Organizer may or may not become a member, such as a mentor, attorney, or accountant, but any of the initial members can be listed as an organizer.

Step 8: Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start immediately, choose

• A.  This document becomes effective when the document is filed by the secretary of state,” which many people choose.
• B. This document becomes effective at a later date, which is not more than ninety (90) days from the date of signing.”
• C. This document takes effect upon the occurrence of the future event or fact, other than the passage of time.

Step 9: Execution

Have an organizer accept the terms and conditions and sign.

Step 10: Submit and Send

Hit submit and your LLC is off!

If mailing send to:
Secretary of State
Corporations Section
PO Box 13697
Austin, TX 78705

Costs to form a Tennessee LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Tennessee, file the Tennessee LLC Articles of Organization with the Tennessee Secretary of State.  The minimum state fee for forming an LLC in Tennessee is $300 for 1-6 members and $50 per member after the first six, with a maximum fee of $3,000.

Approval for the LLC is made instantly when filing online and typically take 5-7 business days when filing by mail. Expedited service is not available to speed up the mailed-in forms.

If you have questions, contact the Tennessee Secretary of State.
615-741-2286
Email – tnsos.corpinfo@tn.gov
Website – sos.tn.gov/contacts

Steps to Form a Tennessee LLC

Step 1: Create an Account

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.

• Begin by visiting the Tennessee Secretary of State’s website and select “Start Now.”  If you prefer to fill out and mail the application, download the Articles of Organization (Form SS-4270).

• Next, select in the “Business Entity Type” field, select “Limited Liability Company.”
• You will also have to check the box and agree to the statement, “I attest that  Pursuant to T.C.A. § 10-7-503, I understand that the information I enter into the online system is public information and will appear online and on copy requests exactly as I key it into the system.” and click “Continue.”

Step 2: Name the LLC

Business Entity Name – Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name has to be different from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  You can run a Tennessee LLC name search with the Secretary of State before going through the filing process to be sure the one you want is available.

The name of the LLC must also include a designator at the end of the business name and describes what type of business entity it is. The available words and abbreviations include:

• Limited Liability Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC

You won’t know if the name you want is available through this screen until clicking on “Continue”  If the name you want is taken, a message pops up saying it isn’t available.  If you are able to move to the next section, it is available.

If there is a name you want to use but aren’t ready to form the LLC, the Application for Reservation of Name (Form ss-4228) can be filed to hold the name for up to 4 months. The state filing fee for a name reservation is $20, paid to the Secretary of State.

Step 3: Formation Locale

Domestic Tennessee Business – A “Domestic LLC” is one that originates and is based in Tennessee. Most filers select domestic.
Foreign Business – If the LLC was originally formed in another state and is wanting to do business in Tennessee, select “Foreign Business.”

Step 4: Business Type

This is an optional section for the Series LLC designation.  A Series LLC provides liability protection across multiple asset groups or businesses, each of which would be protected from liabilities from the other series. The Series LLC is not a common choice and is more commonly used with real estate investment companies.

Enter the name along with the designator you would like to use and click on “Check Name Availability”  A new page will open, indicating whether the name is available or not.  Even if the search comes back with the name is available, the Secretary of State’s office will also review it to ensure it isn’t being used by someone else or that it is too similar to another name.

Step 5: Period of Duration

In this section, you can indicate how long the LLC intends to remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a Perpetual duration; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Step 6: Fiscal Year Close

Select the last month of the fiscal year for the LLC.  Most LLCs will choose December.  Single-Member LLCs and LLCs taxed as a partnership will automatically choose December.

Step 7: Delayed Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start immediately, leave this field blank.  If you want the LLC to start on a later date, enter a date less than 90 days in the future. 

Step 8: Management Structure

This section asks if the LLC is Director-Managed, Member-Managed, or Manager-Managed.

• Director-Managed LLCs have a board of directors that have the power to make decisions for the business.
• Member-Managed LLCs have an active involvement in the management and have the authority to act on behalf of the LLC.
• Manager-Managed LLCs are hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.  This is generally used when there are passive members in the LLC, and the members do not actively manage or operate in the affairs of the business.

Enter the number of managers and confirm the number.

Step 9: Obligated Member Entity

This is an optional section.  An OME is exempt from Tennessee franchise and excise tax but is offered no liability protection, which is one of the major benefits of having an LLC.  If you are considering this selection, be sure to consider the legal aspects.

Step 10: Other Provisions

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 11: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in Tennessee, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Registered Agent can either be the LLC representing itself (select the checkbox for “This business entity will represent itself”), a resident of Tennessee (Select “Individual”), or a Registered Agent service (Select “Organization”) who is registered with the Secretary of State (you must have their SOS Control Number before filing).  The agent must have a physical street address in the state (Post Office Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal business hours, and act as a central point of contact for service of process to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

You can also select to use the address for the Registered Agent as the Principal Office.  If you are using a Registered Agent service, first check that they allow receiving mail as many don’t or will charge extra.

Step 12: LLC Address

Principal Office Address -In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal office.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  You may not use a PO Box for the designated office.

Mailing Address – If correspondence from the Secretary of State should go to a different address from the Principal Office, enter that information in this section.  If the address is the same as the Principal Office, click on the “Use this address as the Mailing Address also” box to copy the Principal Office address.

Step 13: Confirmation

Review that all the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, continue.

Step 14: Signature

Have an individual forming the LLC to sign and check the “I certify” check box.  Click the “Continue” button to save the information and proceed.

Step 15: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

Costs to form a South Dakota LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in South Dakota, file the Articles of Organization with the South Dakota Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $150 for online filings or $165 for filings made by mail.

Approval for the LLC is immediate when filing online and around one week when filing by mail.

If you have questions, contact the South Dakota Secretary of State by phone at 605-773-4845 sdsos@state.sd.us.

Steps to Form a South Dakota LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.

• Begin by visiting the South Dakota Secretary of State’s website.  If you prefer to fill out and mail the application, download the Articles of Organization Form.
• Click on “Start a New Business.”

• In the “Choose a Business Entity Type” drop-down menu, select “(Domestic) Limited Liability Company.”  The brief difference between domestic and foreign is that if your LLC is based in South Dakota, it is domestic.  If the LLC were formed in another state and wanted to do business in South Dakota, it would be foreign.

Step 1: Name the LLC

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  Before choosing a name, you can do a South Dakota LLC Name search with the Secretary of State before going through the filing process to be sure the one you want is available.

The name of the LLC must also include a designator at the end of the business name.  A designator describes what type of business entity it is. Available designators include the following words and abbreviations:

• Limited Liability Company
• Limited Liability Co.
• Ltd. Liability Company
• Ltd. Liability Co.
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• L.C.
• LC

Enter the name along with the designator you would like to use twice to confirm the name you want was entered correctly.

Next, the optional field for “Professional Type” may need attention.  Most LLCs will skip this section, but if your business requires licensing before providing services, select the type of licensing to form as a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC).

If there is a name you want, but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Application for Name Reservation. The name reservation will hold a name for up to 120 days, at a cost of $25.

Step 2: Principal Address

In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal office.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  You may not use a PO Box for the designated office.  There are also fields for a phone number and email address.  Many people do not provide the phone number as it becomes public record.  The email is required and is the address where the Secretary of State will send notifications when annual reports are due.

A mailing address is needed, and it can be the same as the principal address.  If the LLC records will be sent to a different address, enter that information in the Mailing Address Section.  If the address is the same as the principal office, click on the “Use this address as the Mailing Address also” box to copy the Principal Address address.

Step 3: Select a Registered Agent

To have an LLC in South Dakota, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident or business entity that is registered in South Dakota (Select “Noncommercial Registered Agent”) or a Registered Agent service (Select “Commercial Registered Agent”) who has registered with the Secretary of State.  The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed), is available during normal business hours, and act as a point of contact for service of process to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

If you selected Noncommercial Registered Agent, it is likely the name of that person isn’t listed, so you will enter their name, address and email in the contact fields.

Step 4: Organizer(s)

An LLC Organizer is someone involved with the formation of the Articles of Organization.  The Organizer may or may not become a member, such as a mentor, attorney, or accountant, but any of the initial members can be listed as an organizer.

For most LLCs, the members will also be the organizers.

At least one organizer is required.  Enter the name and address for each organizer and click add.

Step 5: Period of Duration & Delayed Effective Date

Period of Duration – In this section, you can indicate how long the LLC will remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a Perpetual duration; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Delayed Effective Date – If you want the LLC to start immediately, leave this field blank.  If you want the LLC to start later, enter a date less than 90 days in the future. 

Step 6: Management

This section asks if the LLC is Member-Managed or Manager-Managed.

• Member-Managed LLCs have an active involvement in the management and have the authority to act on behalf of the LLC.
• Manager-Managed LLCs are hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.  This is generally used when there are passive members in the LLC, and the members do not actively manage or operate in the affairs of the business.

Most LLCs are Member-Managed.

Select Member-Managed or Manager-Managed in the “Managed by” drop-down menu.

Next, select “Yes” or “No” to the question of whether one or more of the members will be liable for the debts and obligations of the LLC.  Most filers are going to choose “No.”

Step 7: Beneficial Owner(s)

This is an optional section, and each member of the LLC is typically considered a beneficial owner.  Entering their names with the LLC filing puts their names and address on public record.

Step 8: Add Additional Articles

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 9: Recipient(s)

Another optional section which isn’t used by most filers.  If the filings need to be mailed to an attorney, entity formation company, or another party, enter their information here.

Step 10: Review

Review that all the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click “Next.”

Step 11: Signature

Have an individual forming the LLC to sign and accept the terms and conditions.  Click the “Next” button to save the information and proceed.

Step 12: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

If mailing, send the ​​​one original and one copy of the Articles of Organization and filing fee to:
Secretary of State
500 East Capitol Avenue, Suite 204,
Pierre, SD 57501-5070

Costs to Start an LLC in South Carolina

To form a Limited Liability Company in South Carolina, file the Articles of Organization with the South Carolina Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $125 when filing online and $110 when filing by mail.

Approval for the LLC is typically around 1-2 business days when filing online and less than 2 weeks when filing by mail.

Steps to Form a South Carolina LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.

• Begin by registering for an account on the South Carolina Secretary of State’s website.  If you prefer to fill out and mail the application, download the Articles of Organization Form.
• Next, select the “Start a New Business Filing.”

Step 1: Business Name Search

First, we search the Secretary of State’s database to see if the name we want to use is available.  You can run a South Carolina LLC name search before going through the filing process to ensure the one you want is available.  The reason for this search is that the name of the LLC also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.

Enter the name you want to search for and click “Search” to see if the name has been reserved.  If the name is available, a message comes up that says, “This name is available” If you get that message, click on the “Add New Entity” button.

Step 2: Form Selection

Is the organization a South Carolina entity? – If you are filing an LLC for the first time and located in South Carolina, you will generally select “Domestic Entity.”   If the LLC was formed in another state and wanting to do business in South Carolina, select “Foreign Entity.”

Choose a business type to see a list of forms – Open the drop-down menu and select “Limited Liability Company.”

Available Forms – Select the Start Filing button for “Articles of Organization” to form a new LLC.

Step 3: Contact Information

Enter the contact information for the person filing the Articles of Organization.

Step 4: New Entity Name

The LLC name you checked earlier will automatically fill this field.  Enter the name exactly as you like and enter one of the following words or abbreviations as the corporate ending.  This ending describes the type of business entity. Available endings include:

• Limited Liability Company
• Limited Company
• LLC
• L.L.C.
• LC
• L.C.
• Ltd. Co.

A comma may be used after the business name and before the corporate ending.  “Cowboy Cleaners LLC” and “Cowboy Cleaners, LLC” are both acceptable.

Step 5: Registered Agent Information

To have an LLC in South Carolina, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of South Carolina or a Registered Agent service.  The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal business hours, and act as a central point of contact for service of process to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 6: Initial Designated Office

Enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial designated office.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  The initial office has to be an address in South Carolina but can not be a PO Box.

Step 7: Management

This section is asking whether the LLC is Member-Managed or Manager-Managed.

• Member-Managed LLCs have an active involvement in the management of the LLC.
• Manager-Managed LLCs are hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.

Most LLCs are member-managed and would not check the box.

Step 8: Member(s) Liable for its Debts?

Most filers skip this step, but if one or more of the members will be liable for the debts and obligations of the LLC, check the box.

Step 9: Company Term

In this section, you can indicate how long the LLC will remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a Perpetual duration and skip this step; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.  If you have a specific end date in mind, click the “Term Company” box and enter the date.

Step 10: Delayed Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start immediately as most filers will, leave this step blank.  If you want to LLC to start later, enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start. 

Step 11: Organizer Information

An LLC Organizer is someone involved with the formation of the Articles of Organization.  The Organizer may or may not become a member, such as a mentor, attorney, or accountant, but any of the initial members can be listed as an organizer.

Only one organizer is required, but more can be listed if desired.

Last, either an organizer or filer must select the drop-down menu for the “Who is signing this form” question.

Step 12: Summary of Forms

An LLC that plans to elect corporation tax status will need to file form CL-1.  If the LLC plans to be taxed like a disregarded entity (sole proprietorship) or partnership can continue.  The tax status will be filed with the IRS when the EIN is filed.  By default, single-member LLCs are taxed like a sole proprietorship while multi-member LLCs are taxed like partnerships.

Step 13: Pay and File

If certified documents are required, check the boxes for “Certificate of Existence” or the “Articles of Organization.”  Non-certified documents will be available once the entity is filed.  Certified documents can be obtained at any time in the future.

Costs to Form a Rhode Island LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Rhode Island, file the Articles of Organization with the Rhode Island Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $150.

Approval for the LLC is typically just a few business days when filing by mail or online, while walk-in applications are approved in a few hours.

If you have questions, contact the Rhode Island Secretary of State at 401-222-3040

Steps to Form a Rhode Island LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.

• Begin by visiting the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s website and select “File New Business Entity.”  If you prefer to fill out and mail the application, download the Articles of Organization (Form 400).
• On the next page, under “Domestic Limited Liability Company,” select “Articles of Organization.”

Step 1: Register the LLC Name

Enter the name you want for the Limited Liability Company.  The name of the LLC has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  Before filing, check on Rhode Island LLC name search to ensure the one you want is available.

The name of the LLC must also include a designator at the end of the business name.  A designator describes the type of business entity. Available designators include:

• Limited Liability Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC

Step 2: Resident Agent

To have an LLC in Rhode Island, a Resident Agent (called a Registered Agent in most states) must be identified.  The Resident Agent can either be a Rhode Island resident or a Registered Agent service.  The Registered Agent must have a physical street address in the state (Post Office Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal business hours, and act as a point of contact for service of process to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 3: LLC Tax Status

In this article, you will declare the tax status of the LLC.  Here there are options for partnership, corporation, or disregarded and is a confusing point.  One of the great benefits of having an LLC is the tax flexibility, and you can elect to have it taxed like a partnership, corporation, or disregarded entity (sole proprietorship).  You are still filing as an LLC but electing how the entity is taxed.

Step 4: Principal Office Address

In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal office.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  This address can be anywhere in the world; however, you may not use a Post Office Box.

Step 5: LLC Purpose & Duration

Purpose – You can elect to have the business purpose of the LLC be open-ended with the generic text of “The limited liability company has the purpose of engaging in any lawful business.”  The business purpose just refers to the business activities of the LLC.  If a more specified purpose is desired, it can be entered in Article VI.

Duration – In this section, you can indicate how long the LLC will remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a Perpetual duration; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Step 6: Additional Provisions

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 7: LLC Management

This section asks if the LLC is Member-Managed or Manager-Managed.

• Member-Managed LLCs have an active involvement in the management of the LLC.
• Manager-Managed LLCs are hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.

Most LLCs are member-managed.

Select how your LLC is managed and enter the names and addresses of any LLC managers.  Member’s names do not go in this section.

Step 8: Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start immediately, leave the field blank.  If you want to LLC to start later, enter a date less than 30 days in the future to start. 

Step 9: Filer’s Contact Information

Wrapping up the filing, enter the filer’s contact information and their electronic signature.

Step 10: Review

Review that all the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click “Accept.”

Step 11: Pay and File

An authorized person will sign the Articles of Organization and send in payment.

If you are filing online, expect the LLC to be approved in about 2 days.

If mailing, expect processing to take between 5-10 business days.  Send the form to:
RI Secretary of State, ​​​Division of Business Services
148 W. River Street
Providence, RI 02904-2615

Secretary of State Contact Information:
Phone: 401-222-3040, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
email corporations@sos.ri.gov

Costs to form a Pennsylvania LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Pennsylvania, file the Certificate of Organization with the Pennsylvania Department of State.  The LLC filing fee is $125.

Approval for the LLC is typically around two weeks.  Expedited filing is available if formation needs to happen faster.  For an additional $100 filing is the same day, $300 receives 3-hour filing, and $1,000 gets 1-hour filing.

Steps to Form a Pennsylvania LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.  To file by mail, download the Pennsylvania LLC Certificate of Organization (Form DSCB:15-8821).

Step 1: Create an Account with the Secretary of State

• Begin by creating an account on the Pennsylvania Department of State’s website.
• After logging into the account, scroll down to “Start or Manage Business Filings,” select “Domestic Limited Liability Company: and then select “Certificate of Organization – Domestic Limited Liability Company (8821)

Step2: Veteran Status

If you are a Veteran or active reservist, check the box, otherwise leave it blank and then “Save and Continue.”

Step 3: LLC Name Search

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  Under Pennsylvania law, the LLC’s name has to be different from other entity names registered with the Department of State.  You can run a Pennsylvania LLC name search before filing to ensure the one you want is available.

The name of the LLC must also include a designator at the end of the business name.  A designator is a phrase of abbreviation used to describe the type of business entity.

Available designators include:
– ​​​Limited Liability Company
– Limited Liability Co.
– Ltd. Liability Company
– Ltd. Liability Co.
– Company
– Co.
– LLC
– L.L.C.
– Limited
– LTD
– Ltd.

Select the available designators from the drop-down box.

Enter the name and designator and click “Search.”  If the name is available, a message says it appears to be available but won’t be finalized until the Department of State reviews the application.

If there is a name you want, but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Name Reservation Form (SSCB:15-208). The name reservation will hold a name for up to 120 days, at a cost of $70.

Step 4: Business Details

(a) Initial Registered Office – If the initial registered office is the LLC’s physical address or the address where the business records are stored, select (a) and enter the address below. A Post Office Box is not allowed. The Registered Office Address can be your home address or any physical street address in the state.

(b) Commercial Registered Office Provider (CROP) – If hiring a commercial registered office service, they must first be registered with the Department of State.  If they are, select (b) and enter their name and county from the drop-down menus.

Step 5: Organizer Information

An LLC Organizer is someone involved with the formation of the Certificate of Organization.  The Organizer may or may not become a member, such as a mentor, attorney, or accountant, but any of the initial members can be listed as an organizer.

At least one organizer and their address must be listed.  After all of the organizers have been listed, click on “Save and Continue.”

Step 6: Form Questions

Effective date of Certification of Organization – If you want the LLC to start immediately, choose the box that says, “The Certification of Organization shall be effective upon filing in the Dept. of State.”.  If you want to LLC to start later, select the box that says “The Certification of Organization shall be effective on (month date year hour, if any)” and enter the date of your choice. 

Professional Company – If the services of the LLC have to be licensed by the state, enter “Applicable” in the drop-down menu and select the types of licenses services.    Some common licenses are for Chiropractic, Dentistry, Law, Medicine, Optometry, Podiatric, Public accounting, Psychology, or Veterinarians.

Public Benefit – A public benefit LLC is one that intends to have a positive impact on society and the environment.  Most filers will select “Not Applicable.”

Step 7: Docketing Statement

Name & Address – Enter the name and address of the person responsible for filing the initial tax reports.

FEIN – The FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number) is a unique federal business identification number, much like a social security number for an individual.  We recommend leaving this field blank until the LLC is filed with the Department of State. 

Description of Business Activity – Provide some basic information about what the business does.  If you want to keep the business purpose more open-ended, you can enter “Any lawful business activity for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized in Pennsylvania.”

Step 8: Attachments

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 9: Declaration & Signatures

The person signing verifies they are authorized to execute the Certificate of Formation, and they are the ones submitting this document to the Department of State.

Step 10: Review

Review that all of the information is correct.

Step 11: Pay and File

Pay and file the Certificate of Organization.

If mailing in the Certificate of Organization, ​​​Docketing Statement (DSCB:15-134A) and payment to:
​​​PA Department of State Bureau of Corporations
PO Box 8722
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8722

The docketing statement requires the entry of the Employer Identification Number (EIN), fiscal year, and other details.

Costs to Form an LLC in Oregon

To form a Limited Liability Company in Oregon, file the Articles of Organization with the Oregon Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $100.

Approval for the LLC typically takes less than two hours when filing online and around one week when filing by mail.

Steps to Form an Oregon LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.

Businesses that require state licensing and offer professional services such as accountants, attorneys, podiatrists, physical therapists, acupuncturists, etc. instead of forming an LLC will need to form a Professional Limited Liability Company (sometimes referred to as a Professional LLC or PLLC) instead of an LLC. Filing for a PLLC is very similar to the LLC outlined below.

Step 1: Create an account on the Secretary of State’s website

Begin by creating an account on the Oregon Secretary of State’s website by clicking on “New User.”

• Click on “Start” under “Register business name, get a BIN, and other registrations/licenses.”

 

Step 2: Register the Business Name

• Begin by clicking on “Register Name.”

• Then in the drop-down menu for “Business/Organization Type,” select “Domestic Liability Company.”

• Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The name of the LLC has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  See how to do an Oregon LLC name search before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

There are some naming guidelines to follow. The primary one is the name of the LLC must also include words or abbreviations at the end of the business name.  A designator is used to describe the type of business entity. Designators that are available to use include:

• Limited Liability Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC

Enter the name along with the designator you would like to use and click on “Check Name Availability”  A new page will open, indicating whether the name is available or not.  Even if the search comes back with the name is available, the Secretary of State’s office will also review it to ensure it isn’t being used by someone else or that it is too similar to another name.

If there is a name you want, but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Application for Name Reservation with the Oregon Secretary of State, Corporations Division. The name reservation will hold a name for up to 120 days, at a cost of $100.

Step 3: Activity Description

Provide some basic information about what the business does in fewer than 250 characters.   Entering something now does not force the LLC to only do that business activity forever.  One way to keep the activity description more open-ended, you can enter “Any legal business activity for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized in Oregon.”

Step 4: Duration

In this section, indicate how long the LLC intends to remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a Perpetual duration; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Step 5: Business Email

Enter the preferred email address where the Secretary of State will send notifications.  This doesn’t have to be an address in the business name and can be a personal one.

Step 6: Mailing Address for Notices

Enter a mailing address where the Secretary of State will send notices.  This address can be located anywhere or be a PO Box.

Step 7: Daytime Contact

Enter a contact name and phone number should the Secretary of State need to contact someone regarding the LLC filing.

Step 8: Principal Place of Business

In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal office.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  You may not use a PO Box for the designated office.

Step 9: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in Oregon, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of Oregon (Select “Individual”) or a Resident Agent service (Select “Entity of Record”) that has a Registry Number from the Secretary of State. The agent must have a physical street address in the state (Post Office Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal business hours, and act as a central point of contact for service of process to receive important legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 10: Assign the Organizers

An LLC Organizer is someone involved with the formation of the Articles of Organization.  The Organizer may or may not become a member, such as a mentor, attorney, or accountant, but any of the initial members can be listed as an organizer.

At least one organizer must be entered.

Step 11: Register Individuals with Direct Knowledge

The Oregon Secretary of State requires that at least one person who is a member or manager of the limited liability company or an authorized representative with direct knowledge of the operations and business activities be on file.

Enter at least one person’s name and address.

Step 12: Statement of Management

This question asks how the LLC will be managed.  The two choices are:

Member-Managed – An LLC with members who have an active involvement in the management of the LLC.  Most LLCs fall into being member-managed.
Manager-Managed – An LLC whose members hired a manager to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.

Select either “Member-Managed” or “Manager Managed.”

Step 13: Declare the Initial Members or Managers

This is an optional section to include the names, contact information, and title of the LLC members and managers.  Some banks will request this information before allowing LLC bank account signing authority.

Step 14: Professional Services Rendered

If the LLC offers services that require state licensing, enter “Yes” and choose from the list of professions.  Some common services that require licensing include accountants, acupuncturists, architects, attorneys, chiropractors, dentists, engineers, landscape architects, podiatrists, psychologists, and real estate appraisers. 

Step 15: Optional Provisions

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Indemnification – The company elects to indemnify its members, managers, employees, agents for liability, and related expenses under ORS 63.160 to 63.170.  Many LLCs will elect the indemnification clause.

Benefit Company – Not as common for an LLC to select, but a benefit company is a blend between a not-for-profit and for-profit company.  There are some requirements to be an Oregon benefit company.

Step 16: Review

Review that all the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click “Continue.”

Step 17: Title and Signature

Enter the LLC organizer’s title, select their name, and have them sign by checking the “Sign” box.  Click “Submit” to continue.

Step 18: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

If filing by mail, send the paperwork and fee to:
Oregon Secretary of State, Coropration Division
255 Capitol St. NE
Salem, OR 9731​​0

Costs to Form an Oklahoma LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Oklahoma, file the Articles of Organization with the Oklahoma Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $100.

Approval for the LLC is typically under 2 weeks when filing by mail or 1-2 business days when filing online.  Walk-in expedited filing is available, and an additional $25, the LLC is approved in about 1 hour.

Steps to Form an Oklahoma LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file online.  To file by mail, fill out the Oklahoma LLC Articles of Organization (SOS Form 0073).

Businesses that require state licensing and offer professional services such as accountants, attorneys, podiatrists, physical therapists, acupuncturists, etc. have the option of filing for a Professional Limited Liability Company (sometimes referred to as a Professional LLC or PLLC) instead of an LLC. Filing for a PLLC is very similar to the LLC outlined below.

Step 1: Register with the Secretary of State

• Begin by creating an account at the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s website.
• Note that the business name you enter in the contact information may not be available.  We will explain how to get the business name later.
• Next, click on “Business Services” and then “Business Entity” Under “File Online.”

• Then we want to look for and select “Domestic Limited Liability Company.”

• On the next page, enter your name and email again…
• Then click on the “Start New” button to finally begin forming an LLC.
• Click “next” after Special Instructions.

Step 2: Name the LLC

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  An Oklahoma Limited Liability Company Name name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  See how to do an Oklahoma LLC name search before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

The name of the LLC must include one of the following phrases or abbreviations at the end of the business name:

• Limited Liability Company
• Limited Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• L.C.
• LC

Enter the name you want in the box (be sure to include the designator) and click on the search icon.  If the name you want isn’t taken, click on the “Next” button; otherwise, come up with a different name.  Even if it looks like the LLC name is available, the Secretary of State will also do their own LLC name search before approving the LLC formation.

If you plan to use a different name from the one that you register (perhaps you want to run multiple businesses under the LLC), you can use a trade name (sometimes referred to as a fictitious business name, assumed name, DBA, or Doing Business As name).  To register a fictitious name, file the Trade Name Report, along with the $25 filing fee will need to be sent to the Secretary of State.

Step 3: Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start immediately, choose “Filing Date.”  If you want to LLC to start later, enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start. 

Most people choose “Filing Date.”

Step 4: Principal Office Address

In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal place of business.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  You may not use a PO Box for the designated office.  This address is where the annual certificate reminder will be sent.

Step 5: Duration

In this section, you can indicate how long the LLC intends to remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a Perpetual duration; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Step 6: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in Oklahoma, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Oklahoma Registered Agent can either be a resident of the state (Select “Individual”) or a Resident Agent service (Select “Business”).  The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal working hours, and act as the primary contact for service of process to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Enter the Registered Agent’s name and the registered office address and click “Next” to continue.

Step 7: Attachments

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 8: Signature

An organizer of the LLC has to certify that the information provided in the Articles of Organization are correct to the best of their knowledge.  Click “Add Signature” and electronically sign.

Step 9: Review

Review that all the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click “Continue.”

Step 10: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

Cost to Form an Ohio LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Ohio, file the Articles of Organization with the Ohio Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $99.

Approval for the LLC is typically around one week but can be faster if you pay to expedite the processing.  The expedited cost to register in 2 business days is an additional $100, 1 business day is an additional $200, and 4 business hours is an additional $300.

If you have questions, contact the Ohio Secretary of State at 877-767-6446 or busserv@OhioSecretaryofState.gov.

Steps to Form an Ohio LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  The screenshots show how to file a domestic Limited Liability Company online.

An out-of-state LLC wanting to do business in Ohio will have to register as a foreign LLC by filing the Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company (Form 533B) with the Ohio Secretary of State.

Step 1: Create a Profile

• Begin by visiting the Ohio Business Gateway, which is the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.  If you would rather file the paper form, download the Ohio LLC Articles of Organization (Form 533a)
• Next, click on “Submit a Business Filing.

• Create a user profile.
• Then select “File a New Business or Register a Name”

• Click on the drop-down menu “Forms available to file online” and select “Limited Liability Company (Ohio) $99”  There is an option for “Limited Liability Company (Non-Ohio), and this is for a foreign LLC, which means it is an LLC from out-of-state wanting to do business in Ohio.   Click “Continue” to proceed.

Step 2: Search Available Names

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  If you aren’t ready to file yet, you can check do an Ohio LLC name search to ensure the one you want is available.  If the name you want to use is considered similar to another, you can file for a Consent for Use of a Similar Name form and add the form as an attachment on a later page.

The name of the LLC must include one of the following words or abbreviations at the end of the business name:

• Limited Liability Company
• Limited
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• Ltd
• Ltd.

Even if the name you select is available, it isn’t final until the Secretary of State manually searches to see if anyone else is using it.

If you plan to use a different name from the one that you register (perhaps you want to run multiple businesses under the LLC), you can use a trade name (sometimes referred to as a fictitious name, assumed name, DBA, or Doing Business As name).  To register a name the Trade Name Registration Application (Form 534A) along with the $39 filing fee should be sent to the Ohio Secretary of State.

If there is a name you want, but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Name Reservation form (Form 534B). The name reservation will hold a name for up to 180 days, at a cost of $39.

Step 3: Enter Company Information

Name of Company – Assuming it was available, enter the name from the previous screen.

Effective Date – If you want the LLC to start as soon as it is filed, choose the next available date.  If you want to LLC to start later, enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start. 

Period of Existence – In this section, you can indicate how long it will remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a “Perpetual” duration as they plan to operate indefinitely; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Purpose – Select whether your LLC is a non-profit or for-profit.

Purpose Clause – This is an optional section but would provide some basic information about what the business does.  If left blank, the default is “An LLC may be in existence for any and all lawful activity.”

Step 4: Assign a Statutory Agent

To have an LLC in Ohio, a Statutory Agent (sometimes referred to as a Registered Agent) must be identified.  The Statutory Agent can either be a resident of Ohio or a Statutory Agent service.  The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal business hours, and act as a point of contact to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

The Statutory Agent must also provide consent they consent to be the agent for this LLC.

Step 5: Add Attachments

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Some reasons to add an attachment would be in the following situations:

• The business name you have selected is already in use in Ohio.
• The business information would not fit in the text fields provided on this system, and you need additional space to provide additional information.
• 4 or more representatives are signing the Articles of Organization.

Step 6: Sign

Have a member(s), manager(s), or other organizers enter their name.  Anyone who signs certifies they have the authority to sign on behalf of the LLC.

Step 7: Review

Review that all the information is correct.

Step 8: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

In approximately one week, if filing normally, the LLC will be approved.

If sending by mail, the address is:
​​​Ohio Secretary of State,
PO Box 670
Columbus, OH 43216

Costs to Form an LLC in North Dakota

To form a Limited Liability Company in North Dakota, file the Articles of Organization with the North Dakota Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $135.

Approval time for the LLC is typically between 2 and 3 weeks.

Professional Limited Liability Company

Businesses that require state licensing and offer professional services such as accountants, attorneys, podiatrists, physical therapists, acupuncturists, etc. have the option of filing for a Professional Limited Liability Company (sometimes referred to as a Professional LLC or PLLC) instead of an LLC. Filing for a PLLC is very similar to the LLC outlined below.

Foreign LLC

Instead of creating a new LLC, an out-of-state LLC wanting to do business in North Dakota will have to register as a foreign LLC by filing a Certificate of Authority Foreign Limited Liability Company Application with the North Dakota Secretary of State.

Steps to Form a North Dakota LLC

Begin by visiting the North Dakota FirstStop website or by downloading the Articles of Organization.

Step 1: Purpose of the LLC

In the first section, you are asked whether the LLC is being formed for general business purposes or farming.  Select the one that applies.

Step 2: Name the LLC

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  Learn how to do an LLC name search in North Dakota before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

Additionally, the name of the LLC must include the following phrase or abbreviations at the end of the business name:

• Limited Liability Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC

If there is a name you want to use but aren’t ready to form the LLC, the Name Reservation Application can be filed to hold the name for up to 1 year. The state filing fee for a name reservation is $10, paid to the Secretary of State.

Step 3: Address of Principal Executive Office

In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal office.  This address must be in North Dakota and can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  You may not use a PO Box for the designated office.

Step 4: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in North Dakota, a Registered Agent must be identified.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of North Dakota (Select “noncommercial registered agent”) or a Registered Agent service (Select “commercial registered agent”) that is registered with the Secretary of State.  See the Secretary of State’s Commercial Registered Agent List.  The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed), be available during normal business hours, and act as a point of contact to receive important legal and tax documents, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 5: Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start on today’s date, choose the box that says, “When filed with the Secretary of State.”  Otherwise, select the box that says “Later on (month, day, year)” and enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start.

The main reason for delaying the LLC start date is when the filing is being done close to the end of a calendar year, and the business will not have any activity until the start of the year.  By delaying until the following year, they will reduce the number of end-of-year filings.

Step 6: Term of Existence

In this section, you can indicate how long the LLC will remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a perpetual/indefinite existence; however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Step 7: Business Description

In this article, you can either adopt the default statement of being in business for “any lawful purpose” or provide some basic information about what the business does. It’s generally better to keep a broad statement in case the focus of the business ever changes.

Step 8: Other Provisions

This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.  Here you would include additional rules for the operation of the LLC.

Step 9: Name, Address, and Signatures of Organizers

List each organizer along with their mailing address and have them sign.

Step 10: Pay and File

Mail the Articles of Organization along with payment to:

Business Registration Unit
Secretary of State
State of North Dakota
600 E Boulevard Ave Dept 108
Bismarck, ND 58505-0500

In approximately 2-3 weeks, the LLC will be approved.