An LLC (Limited Liability Company) protects your personal assets and keeps your taxes simple. Here is the entire process in five steps — Incofile can handle steps 3 to 5 for you.
Step 1 — Choose your state
Usually you form your LLC in the state where you live or do business. Some founders choose states like Wyoming or Delaware for privacy or business-friendly rules, but for most people your home state is the simplest and cheapest option. Each state sets its own filing fee.
Step 2 — Name your LLC
Your name must be unique in your state and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company." Check availability before you file — we run a name check for you as part of the process.
Step 3 — Appoint a registered agent
Every LLC needs a registered agent: a person or company with a physical address in your state who receives legal and government mail on your behalf. Incofile can act as your registered agent, which keeps your home address private and makes sure you never miss an important notice.
Step 4 — File your Articles of Organization
This is the document that officially creates your LLC with the state. It lists your company name, address, registered agent and members. We prepare and submit it for you, then track approval with the state — most filings are submitted within one business day.
Step 5 — Get your EIN and operating agreement
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your business's tax ID — you need it to open a bank account, hire, and file taxes. An operating agreement sets out how your LLC is owned and run. Both are included in our Gold and Platinum packages, so you finish ready to open a business bank account.
That's it
Once your LLC is approved, your documents land in your Incofile dashboard along with reminders for your annual report and other deadlines. Start your LLC now — or first compare an LLC vs S-Corp vs C-Corp to be sure it's the right fit.