- 1). Pick a name for your company. Most states require that an LLC include the LLC classification in the name. Accordingly, you must show some indication of your LLC status. This can be accomplished by including the full "limited liability company" designation to your name or using the simple abbreviation of LLC.
- 2). Check to see if your company name has not already been chosen. Most states require that a company name is unique and not already in use. You can check your company name against those of other registered companies via your particular state's secretary of state.
- 3). Prepare the articles of organization. Articles of organization are the DNA of your LLC. They are required by all states and include such information as your company name, contact address, business purpose and management structure. Most states provide a standardized version for you to fill in the details. Alternatively, you can create your own document as long as it provides all the information that your state requires.
- 4). File the articles of organization with the appropriate authority for your state. Generally, a filing with the secretary of state is all that is required. In addition, all states require payment of a filing fee with the articles.
- 5). Apply for a business license. Before you can do business, most states require that you have a business license. Applying for a license can be done online or via a paper application with the appropriate licensing authority. All states require the payment of an application fee.
- 6). Open a company bank account. This will be used to satisfy company debts and take in company profits.
- 7). Hold an organizational meeting. While many states don't require this step, others do. Moreover, holding an organizational meeting is recommended as an ideal way to address some of the important issues beyond formation that will be required to operate your LLC. These issues include deciding on a management structure or partner contributions.
- 8). File an annual report. All states require that an LLC file an annual report with the state summarizing company information, including the company's objectives, the company's current financial situation and the company's prospective plan. Generally, this must be filed within four months after formation.