In August 2025 alone, there were 473,679 business applications.
A small share of which were LLCs. Limited liability companies offer:
- Personal liability protection
- Greater flexibility for management
- Tax flexibility
- Simplified operational requirements
- Ownership flexibility
- Lower startup costs
In fact, the growing trend of small business formation has made it easier of start an LLC.
Gone are the days of complex paperwork and lengthy processing times.
Today, you can create an LLC online in a straightforward process.
This year, experts are predicting that the upward trajectory of LLC formations will continue, driven by the ease and efficiency of the process.
Here is your complete guide on how to start an LLC in 8 easy steps.
1. Choose a Business Name
Here is what you need to keep in mind when choosing your LLC’s name:
- Choose a name that is catchy, easy to remember, and aligns with your business mission.
- Make sure the name is available. Use your state’s Secretary of State website to conduct a name search.
- Your business name must include “Limited Liability Company” or “LLC”.
- Avoid words such as ”bank” or “insurance”.
- Make sure your chosen name doesn’t infringe on any existing trademarks.
- Consider name reservation, as many states offer options for that.
2. Appoint a Registered Agent
A registered agent is an individual or a service that is legally responsible for receiving important documents on behalf of your business.
These documents include:
- Legal notices
- Lawsuits
- Subpoenas
- Government correspondence
Who Can Be Your Registered Agent?
Most states have specific guidelines about who can serve as a registered agent for your LLC. The person or service must meet the following criteria:
- State Resident: They must be a resident of the state where your LLC is formed and over 18 years of age.
- Physical Address in the State: The agent must have a physical address (known as a “registered office”) in the state where your LLC is established.
- Business Authorized to Serve as Agent: You can hire a registered agent service that receives legal documents for businesses.
When To Consider Using a Registered Agent Services?
- If your LLC is formed in a state where you don’t operate or don’t have a business address.
- You want your personal home address not to be listed publicly as your LLC’s address in state records.
- If you are running a business with irregular hours or from multiple locations.
3. File Articles of Organization
You will have to file the LLC’s formation paperwork with your state. Your articles of organization must have:
- LLC Name
- Business Address
- Duration and Purpose
- Management Structure
- Name and Address of Registered Agent
- Organizer Signature (s)
Many businesses consider online services to ensure accuracy and timely submission of documents.
4. Create an Operating Agreement
An LLC Operating Agreement is the foundation for your business’s:
- Internal operations
- Ownership structure
- Relationship between the members of the LLC
Many business owners use a vetted template to create their operating agreement.
5. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Apply for an EIN from the Internal Revenue Service once your LLC is official. The IRS issues this nine-digit number and serves as your business’s unique identifier.
Obtaining an EIN is simple and can be done directly with the IRS. However, it is important to ensure the application is filed and submitted correctly.
You can use services that streamline the process for you with the three-step process:
- Answer a few questions
- Specialists will complete the necessary forms
- Receive your EIN once the application is processed
Seek expert help to avoid errors or confusion during the EIN process.
6. Secure Licenses and Permits
You must secure the appropriate licenses and permits before you can fully launch your business and start operating. These are required by federal, state, and local authorities to ensure your business is compliant. Here are key licenses and permits you should consider:
- General business licenses
- Seller’s permit
- Industry-specific licenses (food establishment permits, liquor licenses, health department permits, occupancy permits)
- Foreign LLC registration ( If you plan to operate your LLC in multiple states)
- DBA (Doing Business As)
7. Open a Business Bank Account
Make sure you have the following documents and information before you head to the bank:
- Employer identification number (EIN)
- LLC operating agreement
- Articles of organization
- Personal identification
- Business license
Take your time to research your options, gather the above necessary documents, and set up the account via bank or online.
8. Comply With State Requirements
Check constantly that you remain in compliance with all state-specific requirements. Most states require LLCs to file annual or biennial reports to maintain an active status. They also charge an annual fee or franchise tax for maintaining an LLC. It is important to keep your LLC’s information up-to-date.
Conclusion
2026 is going to be the best year for small business owners. Entrepreneurs can start an LLC easily with the online process. If you are thinking about creating your own LLC, now is the time to start online with the eight steps above. Consider the help of services to support you in the launch of your LLC with confidence.