How to Register an LLC: A Clear Step-by-Step Guide

So you've landed on a business name and decided an LLC is the right structure. Good news: registering one is more paperwork than rocket science. Below is the whole process, start to finish, in plain English. Most people can do it themselves in an afternoon, and we'll point out where a formation service can take the busywork off your plate.

If you're still deciding whether an LLC is even the right fit, read LLC vs. sole proprietorship first. Already sure? Let's go.

1. Choose your state

For most new owners, the answer is simple: register in the state where you live and do business. You'll hear buzz about forming in Delaware, Wyoming, or Nevada for their friendly rules, but if you operate from your home state, you'd usually have to register there anyway as a "foreign LLC," meaning two sets of fees and paperwork. Keep it simple and form where you actually work.

2. Pick your name and confirm it's available

Your LLC's name has to be unique within your state and usually must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Before you fall in love with it, run a proper availability check so you don't get rejected at filing.

Our full walkthrough on how to check business name availability covers the state registry, domains, trademarks, and social handles. At minimum, search your Secretary of State's business database to confirm no one else has claimed the name.

3. Choose a registered agent

Every LLC needs a registered agent: a person or company with a physical address in your state who can receive legal documents and official mail during business hours. You have two options:

• Be your own agent — free, but your address becomes public record and you must be available during the workday.
• Hire a service — typically $50–$300 per year (as of 2026, roughly), which keeps your home address private and forwards mail to you.

4. File your Articles of Organization

This is the moment your LLC officially exists. The Articles of Organization (some states call it a Certificate of Formation) is a short form filed with your Secretary of State. It asks for your LLC name, address, registered agent, and the members' names. You'll file online in most states and pay the filing fee.

Fees vary widely. Here's a rough sense of the range as of 2026:

Always check your own state's site for the current number.

5. Get an EIN from the IRS

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number for your business. You'll need it to open a bank account, hire employees, and handle taxes. Apply directly at IRS.gov after your state approves your LLC. It takes a few minutes and is completely free. Ignore any site that charges you for one.

6. Write an operating agreement

An operating agreement is an internal document that spells out who owns what, how decisions get made, and how profits are split. Only a few states legally require one, but you should create it anyway, even as a single owner. It keeps your "limited liability" protection sturdy and prevents disputes down the road. A simple template is fine for most one- or two-person LLCs.

7. Open a business bank account

This step is small but mighty. Keeping business money in its own account is what makes your LLC's liability protection real. If you mix personal and business funds, a court can decide the LLC isn't truly separate from you, and you lose the shield you paid to set up. Bring your Articles of Organization, EIN, and operating agreement to the bank, and you're set.

8. Stay compliant year to year

An LLC isn't "set it and forget it." To keep it in good standing, plan for ongoing housekeeping:

• Annual or biennial reports — most states want a quick filing and a fee (anywhere from $0 to several hundred dollars).
• Franchise taxes or fees — some states charge these regardless of profit; California's is a well-known example.
• Licenses and permits — depending on your industry and city.
• Renewing your registered agent — if you hired one.

Mark these dates on a calendar. Missing a report can lead to penalties or even dissolution of your LLC.

The short version

Choose your state, lock in an available name, name a registered agent, file your Articles of Organization, grab a free EIN, write an operating agreement, open a business bank account, and keep up with annual filings. Do those eight things and you've got a real, registered company.