Cost to Form an LLC in North Carolina

To form a Limited Liability Company in North Carolina, file the Articles of Organization with the North Carolina Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $125, and approval is typically around one week.  For an additional $100, you can opt for a filing in under 24 hours.

If you have questions, contact the North Carolina Secretary of State at 919-814-5400.

Steps to Form a North Carolina LLC

Start by downloading the Articles of Organization Form L-01.  Enter the information into the form.  If you file online, upload the saved PDF, otherwise mail in the form to the Secretary of State.

Businesses that 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: LLC Name

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.  Check on available North Carolina LLC names before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

Additionally, the name of the LLC must include one of the following phrases or abbreviations (also referred to as designators) at the end of the business name:

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

If you plan to use a different name from the one you register (perhaps you want to run multiple businesses under the LLC), you can file an assumed name (sometimes referred to as a fictitious business name, trade name, DBA, or Doing Business As name).  To register an assumed name, file the Assumed Business Name Certificate, along with the $26 filing fee with the Register of Deeds office in the county where the LLC is located.

Step 2: LLC Organizers

Enter the name and address of each person responsible for executing the Articles of Organization and whether they are a member, organizer, or both by checking the applicable boxes.

Step 3: Name of the Registered Agent

A North Carolina Registered Agent must be identified before forming an LLC for service of process.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of North Carolina or a Resident Agent service, have a physical street address and, be available during normal business hours.

Step 4: Street Address of the Registered Agent

The Registered Agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed) and act as a point of contact to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 5: Mailing Address of the Registered Agent

If you prefer to receive mail from the Secretary of State at an address different from the street address in #4, enter the address.  This address can be a PO Box or an address out-of-state.  If the mailing address is the same, leave this section blank.

Step 6: Principal Office

There are 2 parts to Step 6.  Section “A” is used if the LLC has a principal office, and Section “B” is used if the LLC does not have a principal office.

Section A – In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the LLC’s 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.

Section B – This is usually selected if the principal office has not been secured yet.  A principal office will need to be identified by the time the first annual report is due.

Step 7: Additional Provisions

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

Step 8: Company Officials

This section is optional but is used to list the company officials.  This isn’t necessary for a single-member LLC, but a multi-member LLC may find it easier to create an Operating Agreement to list the officials as it is much easier to update the Operating Agreement than it is to update the Articles of Organization.

Step 9: Business Email Address

This is another optional section for a business email address.  The email does not have to be an official business email address, but the address entered will get a notification from the Secretary of State’s office when LLC documents are filed.

Step 10: Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start on today’s date, choose Yes, otherwise select No, and enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start.

If you want the LLC to start immediately, choose today’s date.  If you want to LLC to start later, 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.

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

Step 11: Signature

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

Step 12: File

At this point, the Articles of Organization can be mailed in or filed online.  Online filings are approved a few days faster than the mailed-in forms.

If you want to file online, set up an account with the Secretary of State.

• Begin by visiting the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website.
• Click on the “Sign-In” link and then select “First Time User.”

• Select “I want to” in the top menu and then “Create a Business Online.”

Step 13: Online Filing

Filing Type – Select Creation to form a Limited Liability Company.

Requested Entity Name –  

Has the entity been created in another state or country? – The answer for a new business starting is likely no.

Entity Type – Choose “Limited Liability Company” from the drop-down menu.

Document Type – Choose “Articles of Organization Limited Liability” from the drop-down menu.

Customer Reference Number – Won’t apply to most filers.

Return Email – Enter an email address to correspond with the Secretary of State during the formation process.

Cost to Form an LLC in New York

To form a Limited Liability Company in New York, file the Articles of Organization with the New York Division of Corporations.  The LLC filing fee is $200.

Approval for the LLC typically takes between 1-2 weeks for mailed-in filing or just a few minutes when filing online.

If you have questions, contact the New York Division of Corporations at 518-473-2492.

Steps to Form a New York 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 New York LLC Articles of Organization (Form DOS-1336-f).

Licensed occupations such as accountants, attorneys, podiatrists, physical therapists, psychologists, veterinarians, acupuncturists, etc. have the option of filing for a Professional Limited Liability Company (sometimes referred to as a Professional LLC or PLLC) instead. The formation of a PLLC is very similar to the LLC.

Step 1: Get Started

• Begin by visiting the New York Division of Corporation’s website.
• Click on “Domestic Corporation (For-Profit) and Domestic Limited Liability Company”

• Next, select “Articles of Organization for a Domestic Limited Liability Company.” There is a note that this entity is not for professional service Limited Liability Companies. 

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 Division of Corporations.  Check on LLC name availability in New York before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

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

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

Step 3: Opening Statement

This is an optional section where the filer states, ” THE UNDERSIGNED, being a natural person of at least eighteen (18) years of age, and acting as the organizer of the limited liability company hereby being formed under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law of the State of New York certifies that:”

This just says the filer agrees the rest of the information in the Articles of Organization are true.

Step 4: Name

The LLC’s name is being requested again to verify the name you are choosing.  This section must match the one previously entered in Step 2.

If any part of the name has a foreign word, enter the English translation in the next field.

Step 5: Purposes

This is an optional statement you can agree to or not that says the LLC is being formed “To engage in any lawful act or activity within the purposes for which limited liability companies may be organized pursuant to Limited Liability Company Law provided that the limited liability company is not formed to engage in any act or activity requiring the consent or approval of any state official, department, board, agency, or other body without such consent or approval first being obtained.”

Check the box if it applies or not and proceed.

Step 6: County

Select the county where the primary office of the LLC will be located from the drop-down menu.

Step 7: Service of Process

In this section, enter the mailing address where the Department of State should send notices of lawsuits.

This address does not have to be in New York, but it does have to be in the continental United States.

Some filers use a third-party service company to receive these types of notices on their behalf.  These services must already be registered with the Secretary of State, and if you select “Select a Service Company,” a drop-down list with approved companies will appear for you to select from.

Most fliers will enter the location information for the LLC.

Step 8: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in New York, there must be a person or service with a physical presence in the state.  If it applies, select the “Check if Applicable box.”

If one of the members (owners) will have that presence, this section can be skipped.  Otherwise, a Registered Agent must be identified.  If it is an individual, select the “enter Registered Agent Information” bubble and enter their information.  If the agent is a service, click on the “select a Registered Agent Company” bubble.  Once you do this, a list of services that are registered with the state appears, and you can select from one of those.  Be sure you have already signed up with their service before selecting.

Step 9: Management Structure

This is another optional section asking how the entity is managed.  If it applies, select the “Check if Applicable box.”

If the LLC is managed by members, it is considered a Member-Managed LLC, where the members (typically owners) have an active involvement in the management of the LLC.
If the LLC is managed by a manager, it is considered a Manager-Managed LLC, where the members hire a manager to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.

Most LLCs are member-managed.

Step 10: Effective Date

The effective date section is optional.

You can choose to elect to have the LLC start immediately upon the filing of the Articles of Organization (which will happen without doing anything).  If you want the LLC to start on a date up to 60 days in the future, select the “Check if Applicable box” and enter a date.

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 isn’t going to have any activity until the start of the following year.  By delaying until the following year, they will reduce the number of end of year filings.

Step 11: Dissolution Date

This section is optional and provides the ability to set a date to close the LLC.  Most LLCs will choose a perpetual existence (which is the default choice); however, some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

To include this statement in your Articles, select the “Check if Applicable box” and the appropriate information.

Step 12: Liability Statement

This optional statement is an indemnification clause that says, “The limited liability company shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless all members, managers, and former members and managers of the limited liability company against expenses (including attorney’s fees, judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement) incurred in connection with any claims, causes of action, demands, damages, liabilities of the limited liability company, and any pending or threatened action, suit, or proceeding. Such indemnification shall be made to the fullest extent permitted by the laws of the State of New York, provided that such acts or omissions which gives rise to the cause of action or proceedings occurred while the Member or Manager was in performance of his or her duties for the limited liability company and was not as a result of his or her fraud, gross negligence, willful misconduct or a wrongful taking. The indemnification provided herein shall inure to the benefit of successors, assigns, heirs, executors, and the administrators of any such person.”

Basically, it says the LLC will protect the members and managers of the LLC from the operations of the business, provided those members and managers weren’t negligent in their duties and hold them harmless should there be a lawsuit.

Step 13: 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 could be listed as organizers.

Step 14: Signature

Have an organizer of the LLC sign and enter their title, such as Member or Manager.  Here this person is stating the information in the Articles of Organization is correct.

Step 15: Filer

Have the filer sign and provide their contact information.  The filer is most likely going to be the organizer that just signed their name.

Click on “Continue” to proceed.

Step 16: Review

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

Step 17: Pay and File

You can optionally add the Federal Employment Identification Number (FEIN).  While not required to file the Articles of Organization, you will eventually need one.

If mailing send the Articles of Organization to:
Department of State, Division of Corporations, State Records and Uniform Commercial Code
One Commerce Plaza
99 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12231

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in New Mexico?

To form a Limited Liability Company in New Mexico, file the Articles of Organization with the New Mexico Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $50.

Approval for the LLC typically takes between 2-3 weeks when filing by mail and 2-3 days when filing online.

Steps to Form a New Mexico LLC

Step 1: Create an Account

Begin by creating a user account with the New Mexico Secretary of State’s Corporations and Business Service’s website.

Step 2: Begin Creating an LLC

Place your cursor over “Corporations” in the top menu and then select “Domestic (NM) LLC Formation.

Step 3: Name Registration

Entity Type -Make sure “Domestic Limited Liability Company” is still selected in the drop-down box.

Entity Name – Enter the proposed name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  You can check on New Mexico LLC name availability before filing to be sure the one you want is available, or if you are in the process of filing, use the “Entity Name” field to search the database.

Additionally, the name of the LLC must include one of the following designators at the end of the business name:

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

If there is a name you want to use but aren’t ready to form the LLC, the Application for Registration of Limited Liability Company Name can be filed to hold the name for up to 120 days. The state filing fee for a name reservation is $20, paid to the Secretary of State.

Step 4: Purpose & Duration

Effective Date Request – If you want the LLC to start immediately, choose today’s date.  If you want to LLC to start later, enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start. 

Period of Duration – If you intend the business to exist forever, which most businesses do, leave “Perpetual” selected.  If you have a specific end date in mind (typically used for investment-related businesses), choose how long the LLC will operate after selecting “The period of duration is.”

NAICS – This section is optional and asks for information regarding the activities of the business.  To do that, there is a number called NAICS (North American Industrial Classification System).  This code is a six-digit number that classifies and categorizes the different business industries.  This information is used in reporting statistical data for each of the industries in the U.S.  Remember this number as you will need it when filing annual tax returns.  Find your NAICS number here.

If the activities of your business aren’t specifically listed, choose one that is close.  The filing allows for up to three codes to be entered.

Business Purpose – Another optional section, the Secretary of State is asking for some basic information about what the business does. 

Step 5: Registered Agent & Address Information

Initial Registered Agent – A New Mexico Registered Agent must be identified before forming an LLC for service of process.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of New Mexico (Select “Individual”) or a Resident Agent service (Select “Entity”). 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.

Entity Address and Contact Information – Enter your preferred email address and phone number (can be personal or business) for the Secretary of State to contact you.

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 principal place of business.  This address can be the same as the Registered Agent.

Mailing Address – If the mailing address is different from the primary place of business, enter that address in this section.  If the mailing address is the same as the principal place of business, click on the “Same as” box to copy an earlier used address.

Step 6: Manager / Member Info

This section asks for information regarding the LLC’s managers and members.

Managers, also known as a Manager-Managed LLC, are people hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.
Members are the owner(s) of an LLC.  An LLC managed by the members is known as a Member-Managed LLC.  In this setup, the members have an active involvement in the management of the LLC.

Step 7: 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 could be listed as organizers.  Click the “Add Organizer” button and enter the Organizer’s information.

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.

Certify – One of the Organizers will certify the Articles of Organization.  Select the Organizer who will be certifying the Articles by checking the checkbox “Authorized by” in the earlier “Organizer Information”).

Step 8: Review

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

Step 9: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

In approximately 2-3 business days, the LLC will be approved if filing online, or up to 15 days when filing by mail.

If mailing send paperwork to:
New Mexico Secretary of State, Corporations Bureau
325 Don Gaspar, Suite 300
Santa Fe, NM 87501

Costs to Form a New Jersey LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in New Jersey, file the New Business Entity Form with the New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services.  The LLC filing fee is $125.

Approval for the LLC typically takes less than 1-hour.

If you have questions, contact the New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services.
609-292-9292

Steps to Form a New Jersey LLC

The steps for filing online or by mail are largely the same.  To file online.

• Begin by visiting the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
• Click on “Get Started”

Step 1: Business Name Search

First, select the type of business you would like to form from the drop-down menu.  If it is an LLC, select “NJ Domestic Limited Liability Company.”

Next, enter the name you want for the LLC.  The name of the LLC has to differ from other business entity names registered with the state.  You can check New Jersey LLC name availability before filing to ensure the one you want is available or enter your name.  Otherwise, enter the name you want to use, and if it is available, you will be able to continue to the next screen.

You will not use a designator during the search, but if your name is available, you will pick one on the next screen.  A designator at the end of the business name indicates what type of business entity it is, such as LLC, Corporation, etc.

There are a few other naming guidelines such as the name can’t include words the refer to a federal or state department, or words related to banking, trust, insurance, Olympic, Little League, realtor, unless the LLC is approved to do so.

If there is a name you want, but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file an Application for Name Reservation. The name reservation will hold a name for up to 120 days, at a cost of $50.

Step 2: Select a Business Designator

If the name you wanted is available, select the designator for your LLC.  Available designators include:

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

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

Step 3: Business Information

Employer Identification Number – This is optional, but you can enter the EIN of the LLC here.  If you don’t have an EIN, a link is available to the IRS to file one.  See our guide on filing an LLC EIN.

NAICS Code – This section is optional and asks for information regarding the business’s activities.  To do that, there is a number called NAICS (North American Industrial Classification System), which is a six-digit number that classifies and categorizes the different businesses. 

If the activities of your business aren’t specifically listed, choose one that is close.

Duration – If you intend the business to exist forever, which most businesses do, enter “Perpetual” or leave blank as, by default, all LLCs are set up with a perpetual duration. 

Effective Date – If you want the LLC to start immediately, leave today’s date in the box.  Otherwise, choose a date in the future that you want the LLC to start.

Step 4: Business Purpose

Provide some basic information about what the business does.  If you want to keep the business purpose more open-ended, you can just have “Any lawful business activity for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized in New Jersey.”

Step 5: Main Business Address

In this section, enter the street address, city, state, and zip code of the initial principal office to receive mail from the state.  This address can be the LLC’s physical address, or it can be the address where the business records are stored.  The address does not have to be located in New Jersey, but you may not use a PO Box.

Step 6: Registered Agent

A New Jersey Registered Agent must be identified before forming the LLC.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of New Jersey (Click “Enter a Registered Agent/Office”) or a Resident Agent service (Enter the Registered Agent Number in the field).  The agent must have a physical street 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 and tax documents, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 7: Members / Managers

Enter the names of up to 10 Members and Managers.

At least the name and address of one member or manager must be entered.

Step 8: Other Provisions / Additional Information

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

One provision that is listed is the duration, just as was asked in Step 3.  If the LLC will have a perpetual existence, leave the field blank.  Otherwise, enter the date the LLC will dissolve.

Step 9: Signatures

Have an authorized representative forming the LLC to sign indicating the certificate’s acceptance and the intent to execute the filing formally.  At least one person has to sign, but no more than 10.  Signatures can come from members, managers, or people helping with the LLC formation.  Click the “Continue” button to save the information and proceed.

Step 10: Review

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

Step 11: Additional Certificates and Certified Copies

This is optional, but if you would like to order a Certificate of Standing ($50) or a certified copy of the Certificate of Formation ($25), indicate by clicking on the boxes.  These can both be ordered at a later date if needed.

Step 12: Contact Information

Enter a name and phone number contact should there be any issues with the LLC filing.

Step 13: Pay and File

After payment, the LLC is immediately approved, but the New Jersey Certificate of Formation will take several minutes before it is ready to download.

If mailing, send the Public Records Filing for New Business Entity form and state fee to:
State of New Jersey Division of Revenue
33 West State St., 5th Floor
Trenton, NJ 08608-1214

Cost to Start a New Hampshire LLC

To form a New Hampshire Limited Liability Company, file the Certificate of Formation with the New Hampshire Secretary of State, Corporation Division.  The LLC filing fee is $125 when filing in person, $102 when filing online, and $100 when filing by mail.

Approval for the LLC typically takes less than 2 hours when filing in person, one week when filing online, and up to 3 weeks when filing by mail.

If you have questions, contact the New Hampshire Secretary of State.
603-271-3246

Steps to Form a New Hampshire LLC

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

Step 1: Create an Account with the Secretary of State

• Begin by creating a QuickStart account with the New Hampshire Secretary of State.
•  After the account is created, log in to the site.

Step 2: Create the LLC

• First, click on “Create a New Business.”

Instead of creating a new company, an out-of-state LLC wanting to do business in New Hampshire will have to register as a foreign LLC by filing an Application for Foreign Limited Liability Company Registration with the New Hampshire Secretary of State.

• Then select “I am creating a new Domestic Business/Trade Name (D/B/A).  A new menu will appear where you will choose “Limited Liability Company.”

Step 3: Business Name

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.  Check on available New Hampshire LLC names before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

Additionally, the name of the LLC must include one of the following designators at the end of the business name:

• Limited Liability Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• or similar abbreviations

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 DBA, Doing Business As name, fictitious business name, or assumed name).  To register a Trade Name, file the Application for Registration of Trade Name (Form TN-1), along with the $50 filing fee with the Secretary of State.

Business Name Reservation – There is an option to enter a name that was previously registered with the Secretary of State.  There isn’t a requirement to have done so before filing and if that is the case, select “No” and continue.

Step 4: Principal Purpose

This section is asking for information regarding the activities of the business.  To do that, there is a number called NAICS (North American Industrial Classification System).  This code is a six-digit number that classifies and categorizes the different industries.   Find your NAICS number here or use the drop-down menu.  If your business doesn’t fit any of the selections, just select “Other” and continue.

Step 5: Registered Agent

A New Hampshire Registered Agent must be identified before forming the LLC.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of New Hampshire (Select “Individual”), a Not-For-Profit (Select “Not-For-Profit”) or a Resident Agent service (Select “Business” to find the address that is registered with the Secretary of State).

If you are using a Registered Agent Service, enter their information in the “Search Agent Name” field and select the entry for that firm.  If it’s an individual or a company that isn’t listed, select “Create Agent” and enter their information.

The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed) and act as a point of contact to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 6: Manager/Member Information

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.

Step 7: Duration

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

Step 8: Business Email Address

Enter an email address for someone in the LLC that will be responsible for saving the formation documents.

Step 9: General Upload

In this section, upload any required licensure certificates (required for a Professional LLC or PLLC), consent letters, or pertinent documents like rules for the LLC operation.  This is an optional section and not used by most LLCs.

Step 10: Principal Office Information

Business 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 does not have to be in New Hampshire, but you may not use a PO Box.

Mailing Address – If there is an address that is preferred for mail to be sent by the Secretary of State that is different from the Business Address, enter it here.  Otherwise, click the box for “Same as Business Address.”

Step 11: Certify

Click the box and certify that the information entered is correct.

There is also an opportunity to delay the start of the LLC. If you want the LLC to start on today’s date, check the LLC selection to be “effective on the date/time of electronic submission” or select a date less than 90 days in the future to start.

Step 12: Signature

Have a manager, member, or appointed LLC organizer sign the Certificate of Formation.  Enter this person’s title and name.

Step 13: Review

Review that all of the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click the checkbox that says “I acknowledge that the information provided above is true and correct,” then click “Next Signature(s)”

Step 14: Pay and File

Pay and file the Certificate of Formation.

If filing online, the Certificate of Formation will be approved in less than one week.

If filing in person, take to the Secretary of State’s office at:
Corporation Division, NH Department of State
107 N Main St, Rm 204
Concord, NH 03301-498925

Cost to Form an LLC in Nevada

To form a Limited Liability Company in Nevada, file the Articles of Organization with the Nevada Secretary of State.  The filing fee for a Nevada LLC formation is $75 for the Articles of Organization plus $150 for the initial list of managers or managing members.

The LLC is approved instantly when filing online.

If you have questions, contact the Nevada Secretary of State at 775-684-5708

Steps to Form a Nevada LLC

Step 1: SilverFlume Registration

Register for a SilverFlume account from the Secretary of State.

• Begin by visiting the Nevada Secretary of State’s website.
• Verify your account and log in
• Select “Start Your Business”

• Next, select “Start Your Business (Online Wizard)

• Choose “Start a for-profit Nevada business and then select “Domestic Limited Liability Company.”

You will be asked if the entity is claiming a 001-Government or 006-insurance exemption from the state business license.  Certain entities are exempt from obtaining a license, such as a governmental entity or insurance company doing business pursuant to NRS 680B.020 that does not conduct any business that is not incidental to Title 57 (Div. of Ins. Authority).  Most filers will select “No,” but check to see if your business falls under either of those categories.

An out-of-state LLC wanting to do business in Nevada will have to qualify as a foreign LLC in order to physically do business in the state.

Last, you will click “Start” in the My Business Checklist to start on the Articles of Organization.

Step 2: Name the LLC

Name – If you have previously reserved an LLC name with the Secretary of State, you can select the checkbox and include the business name information.  You do not have to reserve a name before forming the LLC.

Enter the name you want for the LLC.  The name of the LLC also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  Check on the name availability of Nevada LLC names before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

Entity Suffix – Additionally, 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 Liability Co.
• Limited-Liability Company
• Limited-Liability Co.
• Limited Company
• Limited Co.
• Limited
• Ltd
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• LC.

English Translation – Should you name the LLC in a foreign language, enter the English translation in this field.  Otherwise, leave it blank.

Series LLC – If you want to form the LLC as a Series LLC you can select that option here.  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 most common with real estate investment companies.

Restricted – A restricted LLC is one that can’t distribute any money to its owners in the first 1o years. (NRS 86. 161)

Latest Date of Dissolution – This section is optional if you intend the business to exist forever, which most businesses do.  If you have a specific end date in mind (typically used for investment-related businesses) choose a dissolution date.

After entering the fields, you are asked to confirm the name of the LLC is correct.  The system will review to be sure it is available.

Step 3: Registered Agent

A Nevada Registered Agent must be identified before forming an LLC for service of process.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of Nevada or a Resident Agent service.  The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed) and act as a point of contact to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc on behalf of the LLC.

Enter the name of the Registered Agent.  If they are registered with the Secretary of State, their name will show up.  If the agent isn’t registered, or if the agent is an individual, click on “My Registered Agent not found” and manually enter their information.

The Registered Agent must complete a Registered Agent Acceptance form to recognize they agree to be the LLC agent.  Here is a link to the Agent Acceptance Form.  Upload the signed form.

Step 4: Managers / Members

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

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

Most LLCs are member-managed.

There must be at least one manager or member.  Add their name and address.

Step 5: 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 the initial members will all be listed as organizers.

At least one organizer must be listed and, in many cases, will be the member from Step 4.  Either copy the previous information or enter the name and address of the new person or entity.

Step 6: 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 7: Initial List of Officers

Include the initial list of officers for the LLC.  At a minimum, all of the Managing Members or Managing Members from Step 4 must be listed in the LLC’s Initial List of Officers.

Step 8: Declaration & Signature

Have an individual forming the LLC to sign and accept the terms and conditions.  Click on the box to accept the terms and include the title and signature of the individual.

Step 9: Review

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

Step 10: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.  You also have the option of filling out the Nevada Business License (which is required) while you are in the SilverFlume system.  The cost of the Business License is $200.

If mailing send to:
Nevada Secretary of State, New Filings Division
202 North Carson Street
Carson City, NV 89701-4201

The LLC filing fee is $110 for mailed applications or $100 for online submissions, and approval takes less than one week typically.

Steps to Form a Nebraska LLC

Unlike most states, the State of Nebraska does not provide a document to form the LLC.  To file the LLC with the Secretary of State, you will need to create a Certificate of Organization.  The State provides statutory requirements of what needs to be in the Certificate of Organization in state statutes Nebraska Revised Statute 21-117.

An out-of-state LLC wanting to do business in Nebraska will have to register as a foreign LLC by filing an Application for Certificate of Authority with the Nebraska Secretary of State.

Below we have information on what information is needed to create your own Certificate of Formation.

Step 1: LLC Name

In Nebraska, each registered LLC must have a unique name, nor be confusingly similar.  Here, you can check on the name availability of Nebraska LLC names before filing.

Next, every 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

If there is a name you want but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file a Name Reservation Application with the Secretary of State. The name reservation will hold a name for up to 120 days at the cost of $15.

Step 2: Initial Designated Office Address

The initial designated office address can be the business’s physical address or the address where the business records are stored.  A P.O. Box may not be used.

Step 3: Registered Agent

To have an LLC in Nebraska, a Registered Agent must be identified for service of process.  A Nebraska Registered Agent can either be a resident of Nebraska or a registered agent service, be available during normal business hours, and must have a physical street address (Post Office boxes aren’t allowed) in the state to act as a point of contact to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 4: Effective Date (optional)

If you want to file the LLC but not want it to start until a date in the future, you can add a section stating the LLC’s effective date.  By default, the LLC is effective on the date submitted.  If you prefer to have the LLC officially start at a later date (up to 90 days), enter that date and time in these fields.

Step 5: Professional Service (optional)

An LLC that provides a professional service such as an accountant, attorney, or any other licensed occupation, describe the nature of the service.

Step 6: Signature

Review the information, and the LLC organizer (could be a member, attorney, or individual helping form the LLC) will sign and date the Certificate of Organization.

Step 7: Pay and File

The next step is to send in the Certificate of Organization.

By Mail: 

Prepare a check or money order made out to “Nebraska Secretary of State” and mail two copies to:

Secretary of State
Room 1301 State Capitol
PO Box 94608
Lincoln, NE 68509-4608

Online:

Scan the completed Certificate of Organization, upload to the Secretary of State and pay via credit card – https://www.nebraska.gov/apps-sos-edocs/

Cost to Form a Montana LLC

To form a Limited Liability Company in Montana, file the Articles of Organization with the Montana Secretary of State.  The LLC filing fee is $70, and approval typically takes less than 2 weeks.  An additional $20 gets 24-hour priority handling if expedited processing is desired, and an additional $100 gets 1-hour processing.

If you have questions, contact the Montana Secretary of State at 406-444-3665

Steps to Form a Montana LLC

Step 1: Account Registration

Begin by creating a login with ePass Montana.  ePass Montana allows you to access authorized government services using a single username and password.

Next, visit the Montana Secretary of State’s website and login with ePass.

Next, select form a Domestic Limited Liability Company

Step 2: General Details

Handling Options
Standard processing is 7-10 business days and costs $70.
24-hour priority handling is $90
1-hour expedited handling is $170

Select your preferred handling option.

Delayed Effective Date
If you want the LLC to start on today’s date, don’t enter a date in the box; otherwise, enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start.

Some will delay the LLC start date if they aren’t ready to go but want the filing out of the way, or if they are close to the end of a calendar year and want to delay until the following year so they won’t have to file business taxes.

Type of Limited Liability Company
If forming a regular LLC (that’s what most businesses will choose), select “Limited Liability Company.”

If the business activities require a professional license from the state, you will want to select “Professional Limited Liability Company.” Common licenses for professionals include accountants, attorneys, veterinarians.  See what licenses and permits are needed in Montana for more information on what businesses need professional licensing.

A “Series Limited Liability Company” 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 most common with real estate investment companies.  Click on the box if you want to form a Series LLC.

A “Professional Series Limited Liability Company” is a Series LLC that provides services that are licensed by the state.

An out-of-state LLC wanting to do business in Montana will have to register as a foreign LLC by filing the Application for Certificate of Authority with the Montana Secretary of State.

Name of Business Entity
Enter the company name you want for the LLC.  The LLC’s name also has to differ from other entity names registered with the Secretary of State.  You can do a Montana business entity search before filing to be sure the one you want is available, or just enter the name you prefer and click “Validate Name.”

Additionally, naming guidelines state 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 Liability Co.
• Ltd. Liability Company
• Ltd. Liability Co.
• Limited Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• L.C.
• LC

Enter the proposed name and click “Validate Name.”  A message will show up at the top of the screen indicated whether the name is available.

Step 3: Select a Registered Agent

A Montana Registered Agent must be identified when forming the LLC for service of process.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of Montana (Select “New Agent”)or a registered Resident Agent service (Select “Existing Agent”).   The Registered 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.

Should you want a different mailing address for the registered agent, enter that address under mailing address.

After the Registered Agent consent to being an agent for the LLC, click on the box for the statement “The appointment of the registered agent listed above is an affirmation by the represented entity that the agent has consented to serve as a registered agent.”

Step 4: Business Mailing Address of Principal Office

Postal Address – In this section, enter the mailing address of the principal office. This address can be the business’s physical address, the address where the business records are kept, such as your home address, or even a PO Box.

Physical Address – If you would like to add a physical address, open up the area for a physical address, and enter it there.

Term – In this section, you can indicate how long it will remain in existence.  Most LLCs will choose a “Perpetual” duration as there is no predetermined close date.  Some businesses (usually investment-related) will have a specific closure date.

Purpose – Unless this filing is for a Professional LLC, this box is optional.  Here you provide some basic information about what the business does.  You can also use “engage in any lawful business activity for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized in Montana” in addition to the original purpose statement to keep the purpose open-ended.

Tribal Designation – Another optional section, select your tribal designation from the drop-down menu.

Step 5: Add Managers & Members

This section asks if Members or Managers manage the LLC.

Member-Managed LLCs have an active involvement in the day-to-day operations of the business.  Most LLCs are Member-Managed.
Manager-Managed LLCs have managers hired by the members to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.

Click the “Add” button to add the names and contact information for members and managers.   Selections include “Individual,” which is most commonly used.  Other options include “Registered Business Entity” and “Non-registered Organization.”

Step 6: Upload Documents

Upload any additional documents that some LLCs will file, including:

Member’s Liability Statement – If one or more members of the company are liable for the LLC’s debts and obligations.
LLC Operating Agreement – While not required, an Operating Agreement is recommended in many cases.  An Operating Agreement is a legal document outlining the roles and responsibilities of the members of the LLC.  Read more about when an LLC needs an Operating Agreement.
Supporting Documents – Any additional documents regarding the operations of the LLC.

This is an optional section, as none of these documents are required.

Step 7: Signature(s)

Read and click on the two terms and conditions boxes if you agree to them.  Then have at least one of the LLC organizers sign the Articles.  Enter this person’s name, title, date.

Add a daytime contact number and email, so if the Secretary of State has any questions regarding the application, they can contact you to solve any issues quickly.

Step 8: Review

Review that all of the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click “Save and Exit.”

Step 9: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization.

If mailing, send to:
MT Secretary of State
P.O. Box 202801
Helena, MT 59620

Steps to Form a Missouri LLC

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

• Begin by creating an account with the Missouri S ecretary of State.  If you would rather file by mail, download the Missouri Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1) 
• Next, click on “Business Entity Online Filing.”

• Then click on “Create LLC” Under the “LLC Filings” Section.

Step 1: Domestic or Foreign LLC

First, leave the type drop-down box as “Limited Liability Company.” Next is the Domestic of Foreign drop-down box. If your LLC is based in Missouri, select domestic.  If the LLC was formed in another state (referred to as a Foreign LLC) and wanting to do business in Missouri, select “Foreign.”  Enter the choice and click “Begin.”

Step 2: Name the LLC

If you have previously reserved an LLC name with the Secretary of State, you can enter the Name Reservation Number.  You do not have to reserve a name before forming the LLC.

Next, 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.  Check on available Missouri LLC names before filing to be sure the one you want is available. You may also want to see if a domain name is also available to have a matching website address.

Additionally, 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 Liability Co.
• Limited Company
• L.L.C.
• L. L. C.
• LLC
• L L C
• L.C.
• LC
• L C

Other naming guidelines include not using words that may imply the business is a part of a state or federal government agency such as the name of a state department, FBI, or Treasury. Also, unless additional paperwork is filed, a business can’t use words of bank, university, or any licensed professionals such as an attorney or doctor unless the business is licensed to provide those services and a licensed individual is part of your LLC.

Enter the name and click “Next: General Info.”

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 fictitious name (sometimes referred to as a trade name, assumed name, DBA, or Doing Business As name).  To register a fictitious name, file the Registration of Fictitious Name, along with the $7 filing fee with the Secretary of State.

Step 3: General Info

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

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

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

Most LLCs are member-managed.

Purpose: Provide some basic information about what the business does.  You will need to provide some basic information; otherwise, the LLC filing will be rejected.  If you want to keep the business purpose more open-ended, you can add “and engage in any lawful business activity for which a Limited Liability Company may be organized in Missouri” in addition to the original purpose statement.

Effective Date: If you want the LLC to start on today’s date, leave this field blank, otherwise enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start.

Series LLC: 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 most common with real estate investment companies.  Click on the box if you want to form a Series LLC.

Step 4: Registered Agent

A Registered Agent in Missouri must be identified when forming an LLC.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of Missouri (Select “Reg. Agent is Individual” and click “I do not want to search” and enter the individual’s information) or a Resident Agent service (Select “Reg. Agent is Organization” and click “Search Reg. Agent” to find the address that is registered with the Secretary of State).   The agent must have a physical address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed) and act as a point of contact to receive legal documents, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

Step 5: 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 the initial members will all be listed as organizers.

Enter the information and click on “Save Organizer:

Step 6: Review

Review that all of the information is correct.  If there are no corrections, click the checkbox that says “I acknowledge that the information provided above is true and correct,” then click “Next Signature(s)”

Step 7: Signature(s)

Have one of the organizers from Step 5 sign the Articles.  Enter this person’s name, title and click on the checkbox that says, “The undersigned understands that false statements made in this filing are subject to the penalties provided under Section 575.040, RSMo”.  Then click “Save” to continue.

Step 8: Pay and File

Pay and file the Articles of Organization with the Missouri Secretary of State, Corporations Division.

In approximately 5-10 business days, if filing by mail or immediately if filing online, the LLC will be approved.

If mailing send to:
Missouri Secretary of State
Corporations Unit
P.O. Box 778
Jefferson City, MO 65102

Step 1: Register with the Mississippi Secretary of State

• Begin by registering for an account at the 
• After registering, log in and select “Form a Mississippi Corporation, Non-Profit, LLC, Partnership or Cooperative.”

Step 2: Business Information

Business Type – In this drop-down menu, select “Limited Liability Company” to form an LLC.

Business Name – 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.  See how to do a Mississippi LLC name search before filing to be sure the one you want is available.

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

• Limited Liability Company
• Professional Limited Liability Company
• LLC
• L.L.C.
• PLLC
• P.L.L.C.

A Professional Limited Liability Company is an LLC that provides services that require licensing in Mississippi.  To see more about professional licensing, see our guide on Mississippi licenses and permits.

Enter the name you want to use and the desired designator at the end of the name.  If the name you want isn’t registered, a message will show up saying it is available.

If there is a name you want but are not ready to register the LLC, you can file the Reservation of a Business Entity Name with the Mississippi Secretary of State. The name reservation will hold a name for up to 180 days, at the cost of $25.

Business Email – Enter any email for the Secretary of State to communicate with you regarding any questions during the LLC formation.

Step 3: Future Effective Date

If you want the LLC to start on today’s date, leave the field blank.  If you want to delay the LLC start to a date in the future, enter a date less than 90 days in the future to start.

Some will delay the LLC start date if they aren’t ready to go but want the filing out of the way or if they are close to the end of a calendar year and want to delay until the following year so they won’t have to file business taxes.

Step 4: Nature of Business

This section is asking for information regarding the activities of the business.  To do that, there is a number called NAICS (North American Industry Classification System).  This code is a six-digit number that classifies and categorizes the different business industries.  This information is used in reporting statistical data for each of the industries in the U.S.  Remember this number as you will need it when filing annual tax returns.  Find your NAICS number by clicking on the “Search for NAICS Codes” and enter the keyword(s) that most closely resemble what your business will do.  Enter the code(s) in the boxes.

If the activities of your business aren’t specifically listed, choose one that is close.  The filing allows for up to three codes to be entered.  The first one is typically the code for the main business activity.

To have a Mississippi Limited Liability Company, a Registered Agent must be identified for service of process.  The Registered Agent can either be a resident of Mississippi (Select “Individual” from the drop-down box) or a Resident Agent service (Select “Organization” from the drop-down box) who is registered with the Secretary of State.  The agent must have a physical street address in the state (PO Boxes are not allowed) and act as a central point of contact to receive legal papers, tax notices, summons, subpoenas, etc. on behalf of the LLC.

You are not required to pay for a registered agent. Any individual meeting the requirements can be the agent; however, the agent’s name and address become public record, and with that comes a loss of privacy.

Step 6: Signature

At least one signature from someone authorized to sign on behalf of the LLC is needed.  This can be a member, manager, or non-members like an attorney or accountant, that the members give signing authority to.  Enter the person’s title, name, and address.

Under title, there are three options – Manager, Member, and Organizer. The definitions of these are:

A Manager is someone the Members hired to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.
A Member is an owner of the LLC.
An Organizer is someone who is assisting with the formation of the LLC.  This is often a Registered Agent, Attorney, or Accountant.

Enter all of the people / organizations signing on behalf of the LLC and click “Next” to proceed.

Step 7: Review

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

Step 8: Acknowledgement

You are asked to acknowledge that “By clicking below, I acknowledge that all steps will be taken to register this company with the Mississippi Department of Revenue pursuant to their rules and guidelines.”  If you agree, click, “I Acknowledge.”

Step 9: Upload Attachments

If there are additional rules for the LLC to file, they can be added here.  Most filers will click “Next” and skip this step.

Step 10: Pay and File

Pay and file the Certificate of Formation.