LLC Formation Made Simple

You’ve got the idea. You’re ready to launch. But the legal maze of forming an LLC? That’s where most founders get stuck.

What's Included in an LLC Formation Package

Legal paperwork? Registered agent? Business email and website? Done. We’ve partnered with trusted providers to help you form your LLC the right way – fast, compliant, and built to scale.

Trusted LLC Formation Partners

Handpicked partners for ease, reliability, and founder-friendly support, everything you need to set up your business the right way.

Business Formation, Recommended

Launch your business the smart way. Bizee offers fast, free LLC formation with your first year of Registered Agent service included. Perfect for marketing pros ready to go legit.

Business Formation

A one-stop solution for forming your business. Quickly set up your LLC and get your first year of Registered Agent service free. Add-ons include EIN registration, mail forwarding, and compliance tools.

Business Formation

All-in-one financial and operational setup for marketers. Lettuce handles your LLC, EIN, compliance, bookkeeping, and tax prep, so you can stay focused on scaling.

❝ I’ve formed two LLCs and used a preferred partner through Hey CMO both times. It only took a few minutes to get everything set up. It made it so easy to get started! ❞

Marcus R

Co-Founder of Atlas & Co

Why Choose an LLC?

LLC Formation Checklist: Set Up Your LLC Yourself

From choosing a name to registering for taxes, here’s your step-by-step guide to forming an LLC yourself.

Prefer to have it done for you?

☑️ Pick Your State of Formation

Most businesses form an LLC in their home state for convenience and tax compliance. Some choose Delaware, Nevada, or Wyoming for potential legal or tax benefits, but unless you’re a larger business, the added costs and foreign LLC registration requirements may not be worth it.

☑️ Name Your LLC

Check if your company name is available. Your LLC name must be unique and legally compliant in your state. It should:

Be distinguishable from other businesses in your state.
Include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.”
Avoid restricted words that require special approval.

Run a free business name search in your state below.

☑️ Designate a Registered Agent

Your registered agent is responsible for receiving legal and tax documents on behalf of your LLC and must have a physical address in your state. While you can be your own registered agent, that means your name and address will appear in public records. If you’d prefer to keep your personal information private, it’s smart to use a professional registered agent service. Many LLC formation platforms include a registered agent free for the first year. It’s a convenient way to protect your privacy and stay compliant from day one. Consider using one of our preferred partners below for reliable, affordable service. If you want to keep your personal information private and off public databases, it’s best to use a professional registered agent service such as one of our partners:

Northwest Registered Agent
Bizee
Zen Business

☑️ File Your LLC Articles of Organization

Submit your formation paperwork (sometimes called a Certificate of Formation or Articles of Organization) to your state’s business filing agency. This officially registers your LLC.

Fees vary by state, ranging from $50 to $800.
Once approved, you’ll receive official confirmation of your LLC formation.

Pro Tip: 💡 Skip the paperwork and let the pros handle it. Our trusted partners take care of your filings, track deadlines, and keep you compliant, so you can stay focused on growing your business.

☑️ Get Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Think of it as a Social Security number for your business. You’ll need an EIN to open a business bank account, file taxes, and hire employees. You can get one for free from the IRS website.

Required for hiring and federal tax filing.
Strengthens your LLC’s legal identity.
Apply online via the IRS with Form SS-4.

Pro Tip: 💡 Apply for your EIN after your LLC is officially formed, using the exact legal name and details from your formation documents to avoid processing delays.

☑️ Create an Operating Agreement

Even if your state doesn’t require one, an operating agreement is a smart move, especially for multi-member LLCs. It protects your business by clearly defining ownership, responsibilities, and how key decisions are made.

Clarifies each member’s role and ownership stake
Details how decisions and profit distributions are handled
Provides legal protection and helps prevent internal disputes

Pro Tip: 💡 Need a ready-to-use template? Northwest Registered Agent provides customizable Operating Agreements built for new businesses.

☑️ Staying Compliant: Ongoing LLC Requirements

After you form your LLC, staying compliant is key to keeping it active and in good standing. That typically includes:

Filing annual reports and paying renewal fees (varies by state)
Keeping your business info up-to-date with the Secretary of State
Staying on top of tax deadlines and deductions with the help of a registered agent service

Pro Tip: 💡 Stay compliant without the stress! Northwest Registered Agent offers a full LLC setup package starting at just $39 + state fees, including filing, registered agent services, and compliance support - so you can focus on growing your business.