How Fast Can I Get an LLC?

Step 3: Prepare and file the articles of organization

Each state has its own rules about what the articles of organization must include, but typically, you’ll need to provide: 

• The name of your LLC with an approved designation (LLC, L.L.C., or similar) 
• A business address
• The name and address of your registered agent 
• Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)

In most states, you can prepare and file your LLC's articles of organization online. Many states also offer expedited processing for an extra fee, with some (such as Delaware) even offering same-day processing. 

Step 4: Complete final setup tasks

In addition to the articles of organization, every LLC should have an operating agreement 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 also required to publish a newspaper notice of your LLC’s formation.

Once your LLC has been formed, you may need to obtain a federal tax ID number (EIN) and set up an LLC bank account to help separate your personal assets. 

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.

Why do articles of organization get rejected?

One of the most controllable factors affecting your LLC approval timeline is the quality of your initial filing. Rejected or suspended applications force you to start the clock over, often adding weeks or months to your formation process. Here are some common mistakes to avoid. 

Name-related rejections

Even if your preliminary search showed that your desired name is available, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe to use. For instance, your articles may be rejected if your LLC name:

• Looks or sounds too similar to an existing entity (like John’s Plumbing vs Jon’s Plumbing) 
• Contains restricted words (like "bank" or "insurance") without proper licensing or authorization
• Fails to include an approved designator (LLC, L.L.C., or Limited Liability Company)

Some states also prohibit names that imply government affiliation or use certain professional terms without credentials. Always perform the most current name availability search immediately before filing, and have backup names ready.

Incomplete or inconsistent information 

Before submitting your articles, double-check that every required field is completed exactly as specified in your state's instructions. Common issues include the following: 

• Mismatched addresses between your registered agent and their acceptance form
• Missing signatures (especially on paper filings)
• Incorrect fee amounts
• Incomplete principal address information

Keep in mind that P.O. boxes aren’t typically acceptable for principal addresses, and some jurisdictions require physical street addresses for registered agents. 

Registered agent issues 

Your registered agent must have a physical street address in your formation state, be available during business hours, and formally accept their appointment. If you're using a commercial registered agent service, ensure they've confirmed their acceptance before you file. If you're serving as your own agent, verify that your address meets state requirements and that you've properly executed any required consent forms.

Payment issues 

Bounced checks, expired credit cards, incorrect fee calculations, and missing expedite fees all trigger rejections. Verify the current filing fee on your Secretary of State's website, and make sure that your payment method is valid and has sufficient funds. For online filings, complete the transaction in a single session to avoid timeouts that can cause payment processing failures.

What do you receive after LLC approval? 

After your LLC is approved, the state issues a formation document that proves your business legally exists. Depending on the state, this may be called a certificate of organization or certificate of formation, or it may be your articles of organization returned with an official state stamp or seal. Regardless of the name, this document typically shows your LLC’s name, formation date, and state file number.

In many cases, you’ll also need a certified copy of your formation document. A certified copy includes a state seal and confirmation that it’s an official record, and banks, lenders, and government agencies often require it. Certified copies usually have a fee. 

Most states also allow you to order a certificate of good standing online at any time. While it’s not the same as your formation document, it confirms your LLC is active, and many organizations accept it as proof of your business’ legal existence.

FAQs

How quickly can you get an LLC?

This all depends on your state’s processing times and expedited filing options. Many states offer expedited processing that can approve an LLC in as little as 1 to 2 business days for an additional fee. Processing times can also fluctuate based on filing volume, so busy periods may cause delays.

Are LLCs hard to get?

Forming an LLC is generally straightforward, especially with guided services like LegalZoom. Even if you file on your own, most Secretary of State websites provide step-by-step instructions, making the process more manageable for first-time business owners.

Can I open an LLC with no money?

No, you can’t quite start an LLC for free. Every state charges a filing fee to form an LLC, even if you file the articles of organization yourself. However, many services, including LegalZoom, offer packages for $0 plus state fees, allowing you to get help without paying additional service fees.

Jane Haskins, Esq., contributed to this article.