You’ll also need a registered agent in each state where you are authorized to do business.Īn LLC is a popular and flexible business option that works well for many small business owners. To do this, you’ll need to fill out and submit paperwork that’s similar to the paperwork you filed when you formed your LLC. If your LLC does business in more than one state, you may need to register to do business in other states. Step 7: Register to Do Business in Other States (optional) Once you’ve received the certificate, you can take care of business matters like obtaining a tax ID number and business licenses and setting up a business bank account. Step 6: Obtain a Certificate from the StateĪfter the LLC’s formation documents are filed and approved, the state will issue a certificate or other document that confirms that your LLC formally exists. All states charge a filing fee, but the LLC cost varies from state to state. In most states, you’ll file LLC formation documents with the secretary of state, but some states have a different department that handles business filings. The paperwork usually must be signed by the person forming the LLC, and in some states, the registered agent must also sign.
You can search existing business names online in many states to determine whether your proposed LLC name is available. Many states also restrict companies from using certain words in their names, such as “bank.” So you can’t, for example, have “Joe’s Donuts, LLC” and “Joe’s Donuts, Inc.,” even if they’re located in different cities.
Most states don’t allow two different business entities to have the same name. Every state has its own rules and procedures, but there are several steps you’ll need to follow to get your LLC up and running, no matter where you live. To form an LLC, you’ll need to file paperwork with the state where your business is located. LLCs are generally easier to set up and more flexible than corporations, and they tend to have fewer ongoing reporting requirements. An LLC, or limited liability company, exists separately from its owners (known as members), and the owners are therefore not personally responsible for business debts. Many small business owners decide to set up an LLC for the liability protection it provides.