How Fast Can I Get an LLC?

Forming an LLC is easy, but some states take longer than others to process new LLC filings. Here’s what you need to know to get your LLC up and running in your state as quickly as possible.

Ready to start your business? Plans start at $0 + filing fees.

Trustpilot star rating bar
how fast can i get an llc

Contents

Updated on: March 21, 2024
Read time: 4 min

You’ve been planning your new business for months. You’re ready to sign a lease, order business cards, and get your website up and running.

There’s just one thing standing in your way: You haven’t gotten around to setting up a limited liability company. And without forming an LLC, you can’t sign the lease on behalf of your business, open an LLC bank account, or order marketing materials with your LLC name on them.

If this sounds like your situation, you might be wondering, "How fast can I get an LLC?"

The answer depends on two things: how quickly you’re able to complete the LLC articles of organization and how long your state takes to process LLC filings. 

How to start an LLC

To form an LLC, you must prepare articles of organization and file them with the state agency that handles business filings. In most states, that’s the secretary of state.

Before you file the articles, it’s a good idea to make sure the business name you want to use is available. You’re not allowed to form an LLC that has the same name as an existing business entity in your state.

Most states allow you to search business name availability online, but a few don’t. In those states, you may be able to check name availability by phone, or you may have to submit a written request.

You’ll also need to identify a registered agent. This is a person or entity with a business address in the state that has agreed to accept lawsuits and other official correspondence on behalf of your LLC. In some states, the agent must sign a form consenting to serve as an agent, and you must file that form with your articles of organization.

After you confirm that your business name is available and find a registered agent, you can prepare articles of organization. Each state has its own rules about what the articles must include, but typically, you’ll need to list the name of your LLC, its purpose, an address, and the name and address of the registered agent. You may also have to say whether the LLC will be managed by managers or by its owners (known as members).

Your state’s business filings website has a form that you can use to prepare your articles of organization, and it may also have a tool for preparing your articles online.

Submitting your articles of organization

In some states, you can prepare and file articles of organization for your LLC online and take advantage of a speedy turnaround time. In other states, you must fill out a paper form and mail, fax or hand-deliver it to the state agency that handles business filings. There is a fee for filing LLC articles of organization.

Processing times vary depending on the state and the time of year. In California, for example, it can take a few weeks for your LLC to be approved. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

When your LLC has been approved, your state will send you a certificate confirming that the LLC officially exists.

How to get your LLC faster

If you’re in a hurry to get an LLC, there are a few steps you can take to make the process go as quickly as possible.

  • Make sure the business name you want is available before you file articles of organization.
  • Fill out the articles of organization form completely and accurately to reduce the chance it will be returned to you to correct errors or provide missing information.
  • File your articles electronically if your state allows it.
  • If you can’t file electronically, fax, overnight, or hand-deliver your articles to eliminate mail delays.
  • Consider paying for expedited processing if your state offers it.

Other steps to take

In addition to the articles of organization, every LLC should have an operating agreement form that describes how the LLC will be run, lists the initial members and their percentage interest in the company, and describes the members’ rights and responsibilities.

In some states, you’re required to publish a newspaper notice of your LLC’s formation.

Once your LLC has been formed, you’ll need to obtain a federal tax ID number and set up an LLC bank account.

You’ll also want to consider how your LLC will be taxed. By default, LLCs are taxed like sole proprietorships or partnerships, but you can also choose to have your LLC taxed as a corporation by filing a form with the Internal Revenue Service. If you’re unsure, an accountant can advise you on the best tax strategy.

Filling out and submitting the paperwork to form an LLC is easy, but it may still take anywhere from a few minutes to a few weeks for your LLC to be approved. You can save money and avoid stress by filing your paperwork early, filing electronically if possible, and taking the time to make sure your forms are filled out properly.

Ready to start your business? Plans start at $0 + filing fees.Start My LLC
Twitter logoFacebook logoLinkedIn logoReddit logo

This article is for informational purposes. This content is not legal advice, it is the expression of the author and has not been evaluated by LegalZoom for accuracy or changes in the law.

99 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Great service

From the beginning the experience has been great. Super easy set up of my LLC, i have the concierge package and they are amazing, Teresa Scherbing is awesome. She is always there to answer any questions i may have.

Stanley Bolanos
71 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Was very easy to use and I got my LLC…

Was very easy to use and I got my LLC the same day. I was SHOCKED. I know every state is different but it was like a miracle. Thank you LZoom!

Erica Walters
72 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

My experience has been excellent from…

My experience has been excellent from the first day opening my LLC, and continues to be great now that my business is thriving. All of my important documents are organized and secured on their sight. Which is amazing when getting loans and doing my taxes. They also provide great customer service every time I call with questions. Would highly recommend using LegalZoom. Plan to start another business and will be using them again. Thank you LegalZoom!

George Wells
71 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

I find that LegalZoom has all the…

I find that LegalZoom has all the answers if you're starting a business an LLC and incorporation or you're doing a trust or a Will. These are the people you want to trust don't go to an expensive attorney you're just throwing your money away. Legal soon gets five stars!

Sean Christopher
71 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Representative was highly skilled

Representative was highly skilled, knowledgeable, and promptly took appropriate actions to assure that my LLC is in total compliance with New York State regs. Excellent service!

Edward Jordon
79 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Just efficient and easy

Just efficient and easy. Made my filing of an LLC simple and stress free

Stefanie ONeill
78 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Great service

Great service! Thank you to Monica for helping me establish my new LLC

ZS
78 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Five Stars For LegalZoom

LegalZoom offers a streamlined and accessible platform for creating an LLC, simplifying complex legal procedures for entrepreneurs. Their user-friendly interface and comprehensive guidance ensure that even individuals without legal expertise can confidently establish their businesses. Overall, LegalZoom enhances efficiency and provides valuable support in the LLC formation process.

CLC
78 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Being new to this process of starting…

Being new to this process of starting an LLC, LegalZoom has been there to walk me through it. Making the process easy and leaving me with a good feeling of confidence. Their business hours are very good and they're open on Saturday too

Eric Geyer
83 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Alifer was so helpful in setting up my…

Alifer was so helpful in setting up my LLC and refunding me my cost from my DBA that was processing!!

Morgan Keats
84 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Considering this was my fist time…

Considering this was my fist time filing an LLC, the site was very user friendly and made the process very streamlined. Will def refer to others!

Kat H
87 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Legal zoom helped me set up an LLC with…

Legal zoom helped me set up an LLC with ease and great customer service

Lori Willinski
101 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

I could've never completed my LLC…

I could've never completed my LLC without the help from legal zoom. They made it so easy.

Christie H.
100 days ago
Trustpilot star rating bar

Very helpful and professional

Very helpful and professional. Knowledgeable of all the LLC requirements and compliance guidelines.

Klaeton Orsted
Rated4.6out of 5 based on23,944+ reviewson

Showing our favorite reviews