How Long Does it Take for LLC to be Approved?
We analyzed the processing time across the United States and found that it takes most states 14-21 business days. However, there are a few that take four to six weeks! For example, Arizona takes 25 days on average to process documents.
Some states issue approval right after they review the business formation documents. These documents can be sent by mail, in person, or sometimes even submitted online. Confirmation can take three to five business days.
Another detail to note is the time of year. Some states are busier than normal during certain time periods, which could cause a delay. Be sure to reach out your secretary of state to verify.
If you need some help setting up your LLC and need it done quickly, Better Legal an LLC processing business has one of the quickest turnaround times. They don’t charge extra for it, either!
How to Create an LLC
Understanding how to form an LLC is a crucial point in comprehending how long it will take to get an LLC up and running.
We are going to briefly go over the steps involved in forming a company so you will have a strong grasp of the time it takes.
Step 1 – Choose an LLC Name: Choose the legal business name that you would like for your company.
Step 2 – Appoint a Registered Agent: A registered agent is a third party that is designated to receive service of process letters and deal with state compliance.
Step 3 – File your Articles of Organization: This is a document that outlines the initial statements required to form an LLC.
Step 4 – Form an Operating Agreement: Not all states require an Operating Agreement, but it is an important document to have. An Operating Agreement is a legally binding document explaining how the business will operate.
Step 5 – Register for an Employer Identification Number (EIN): An Employer Identification Number is an identification number given to your LLC by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
Note: It is important to get your LLC approved before you request an EIN. This will ensure that you have the state approval of your name and your business start date before your EIN is issued.
Check out how long it takes to get an EIN before you begin the filing process.
Note: An LLC is not the same as an LTD. After you finish this article check and see if that is relevant to you.
Whether you decide to file your limited liability company by yourself, with an attorney, or with an LLC formation service, it’s important to note that state filing fees are the same, yet the cost to file an LLC will differ.
How Long Does an LLC Take To Process?
Before we ask how long will it take to form an LLC and process, you need to ask yourself what is the best state to form your LLC?
As mentioned above, each state has a different time frame when forming an LLC. Some states can get it done in three business days where others take three weeks!
If you decide to get your LLC set up with an attorney they can finish the filings in as little as 3 business days and if your looking for legal advice on the way, that might be a great option.
If you decide to use an online incorporation service like Incorporate fast or Incorporate.com, expect to have your LLC approved in 4-6 weeks.
Incfile and LegalZoom are two leading LLC filing companies that offer expedited or rush processing. They help business owners file the documents that they need quickly offering great legal services.
We recommend this method because it’s faster, requires less work for you, and gets your business up and running quicker!
Many states have the option to file an LLC under rushed processing which will decrease the time it takes to complete the formation of your business.
Running a business is challenging and there’s only so much time in the day to get things done. So if you’re in a hurry it’s worth paying the extra fee to order an expedited process.
How long Does it Take To Get Articles of Organization?
Your LLC’s Articles of Organization is essentially the document that approves you to do business in the state. So, while the length of time approving it varies from state to state, we found that, in general, most states will give approval within three to five weeks.
How Long is an LLC Good For?
Essentially forever and ever, but it really depends on how you file your paperwork.
Many states ask that you include the duration of your LLC as a part of your Articles of Organization. This simply means that you get to decide how long your LLC lasts.
For example, if your LLC is going to continue for many years, your duration is “perpetual.” If your LLC will only last for a certain amount of time, or until a specific event occurs, your duration is “indefinite.”
No matter which selection you choose when you form your LLC, you need to stay on top of your state’s annual filing requirements. Some states require LLCs to file an Annual Report each year, while others have Biennial Reports or reports of other frequencies. If you do not file the reports as they are due, the state may dissolve your limited liability company.
Summing it All Up
Forming an LLC is one of the first major steps in getting your business on its way! Many variables will determine how long it takes to get everything set up and running. If you haven’t started yet, now is the best time to start your LLC.
by Benjamin Aronson
