Starting a business can be an intimidating & complex process, but it doesn’t have to be. This step-by-step guide will explain the process of registering your LLC, so you can feel confident taking the DIY approach.
Table of Contents
Naming Your LLC
The following tips will help you name your LLC:
• Consider naming your business after the purpose it serves. Your LLC’s name should include either the words LLC or Limited Liability Company to indicate that it is a legally established entity.
• When choosing a name, check if it’s already taken. Use the Secretary of State’s online search tool to check whether the name you want is available.
• Consider using a corporate ending such as Corporation or Incorporated to give your LLC more of a professional appearance.
• Make sure the name does not contain any prohibited words like bank or insurance.
• You may need to reserve the name of your LLC if you plan to incorporate it in the future.
• Use caution when selecting an assumed name or DBA (doing business as). These types of names do not protect you from personal liability and may need to be registered with the state separately.
• Once you have chosen a name, you can use it to register your LLC with the Secretary of State.
Find a registered agent for your business
If you’re looking to start an LLC, one of the first steps is to find a registered agent. However, if you are going to do it yourself, there are some things you should know.
First, you need to make sure that the person or entity you are selecting meets all state requirements. Each state has its own rules & regulations when it comes to who can be a registered agent, so make sure you do your research before making your selection.
Second, the registered agent must have a physical street address in the state in which your LLC is located. This address will be listed on public records & must be available for delivery of any documents that need to be delivered to the LLC.
Finally, keep in mind that the registered agent is ultimately responsible for making sure that the LLC stays compliant with all state laws and regulations. This means that they will be responsible for any notices sent from the state to the LLC.
Filing the Certificate of Formation
Here are the steps to take:
– Determine Your State’s Filing Requirements:
Every state has different requirements for filing an LLC, so it’s important to research and understand what you need to do in order to get your LLC registered.
– Gather Necessary Information:
Before you can file your Certificate of Formation, you’ll need to gather certain information such as your LLC’s name, business address, and registered agent.
– Fill Out the Certificate of Formation:
Once you have all the necessary information, you’ll need to fill out the Certificate of Formation and submit it to your state’s Secretary of State office.
– Pay the Filing Fee:
After submitting your Certificate of Formation, you’ll need to pay the applicable filing fee. The fee typically varies by state and may range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars.
– Submit Required Documentation:
Depending on the state you’re registering in, you may be required to submit additional documents such as an Operating Agreement or Articles of Organization.
– Receive Approval:
Once you’ve submitted all the required information and paid the filing fee, you’ll receive confirmation that your LLC has been approved and registered.
Operating Agreement of a Limited Liability Company
One of the most important documents to have when forming a limited liability company (LLC) is an operating agreement. An operating agreement sets out the rights, duties, and obligations of each member of the LLC, including ownership percentages, voting power, management duties, and more. It is important to have this document in place to protect the interests of all members of the LLC.
Operating agreements can be as simple or complex as you need them to be, but there are certain essential elements that must be included in the document.
Creating an operating agreement is an important step in forming a limited liability company and protecting the rights & interests of all members involved. This guide provides a basic overview of what to include in an operating agreement, but it is always best to consult with a lawyer to make sure that your agreement meets your specific needs and legal requirements.
Applying for an EIN
Here’s how to do it:
1. Gather Necessary Information.
Before you begin the application process, you will need to have the following information:
• The name of the LLC
• The date the LLC was established
• Your address & contact information
• A description of your business activities
• LLC membership numbers
2. Apply Online. The fastest way to obtain an EIN is to apply online at the IRS website. To do this, you will need to fill out an online form & provide the necessary information listed above. Once you submit the form, you should receive an EIN number within a few minutes.
3. Apply by Mail or Fax.
A fax or mail application is also acceptable for applying for an EIN. To do this, you will need to download & complete Form SS-4 and then mail or fax it to the IRS. It may take up to four weeks to receive your EIN if you apply this way.
Once you have obtained your EIN, you will be able to move forward with the registration of your LLC. Be sure to keep your EIN number handy for filing taxes & other related activities.
Conclusion
Before you begin the registration process, it’s important to understand the regulations in your state and comply with them. If you’ve followed this guide closely, you should now have all the information needed to successfully register your LLC yourself!
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