How to Register an LLC for a Business Service Provider

Introduction

The process of registering an LLC is relatively easy, but it does vary by state. And we’ll cover the basics here. If you want more information about how to register an LLC in your state, go to our page on registering a business entity for more details. However, if you are ready to get started now, keep reading for an overview of how to register an LLC with the Secretary of State.

If you’re ready to start a business and have decided on the type of business entity that’s right for you, now you need to know how to register your business. Depending on the state in which you want to set up your LLC, you may need to file an Articles of Organization or a Certificate of Formation with the appropriate state agency.

What is an LLC? 

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a type of business entity that is characterized by its flexibility. An LLC offers limited liability protection to its owners, but it also has some key differences. For example, while corporations typically issue shares of stock as part of their initial capitalization, LLCs do not issue any such securities. Instead of issuing shares, LLCs “distribute” profits among their members in proportion to each member’s capital contributions or the percentage of shares he or she owns.

While the details vary from state to state, forming an LLC usually involves filing Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation with the appropriate state agency and paying any necessary fees depending on which state you reside in. The formality required for these filings varies from state to state; however, in most cases, it falls somewhere between simple and moderate complexity.

Differences between Articles of Organization and Certificates of Formation

For sole proprietors and partners who are filing an LLC on their own, the procedure is relatively simple. You can choose to file either an Articles of Organization or a Certificate of Formation depending on which type of business you’re setting up.

In most cases, it’s better to use Articles of Organization because they’re cheaper and less complicated than Certificates of Formation. Alternatively, if you’d rather handle things in person instead of online, there are several different locations that offer help with filing:

• Manhattan – 100 Church Street
• Brooklyn – 1 Met Center North Tower 16th Floor
• Buffalo – 120 West Huron Street Suite 1500

The process is relatively simple, but there are a few details that make it different in each state. Although many states allow you to register an LLC online, others require filing by mail or in person.

To register an LLC, follow these steps: 

Before you can register your LLC, you must first choose a name for your company. You should check to make sure that the name is available by searching the Secretary of State’s website or calling their office directly. You may want to reserve the name while you’re preparing your application so that another person doesn’t beat you to it.

It’s important to note that some states require specific information in order for a business name search to be conducted successfully, such as an exact match of all words or punctuation used in the proposed business names as well as any abbreviations that may be included in it. Check with your state’s Secretary of State Office before selecting a business name so that they can help ensure everything checks out correctly.

The process varies from state to state 

Every state is different, so check with your state government to find out what paperwork and fees are involved in registering an LLC. Fees vary by state. Check the state website for details. Research the fees before you start.

Check the availability of your intended company name by searching the Secretary of State’s website or calling the office directly. It’s always a good idea to reserve an available name while you’re preparing your application. You can do this online or by calling the office and asking to reserve a name.

Conclusion

Starting a business today has become a difficult task but Trademark Avenue makes it easier for you to register your company by following easier and care-free steps. If you’re ready to start a business and have decided on the type of business entity that’s right for you, now you need to know how to register your business. This article explains some basic differences between Articles of Organization and Certificates of Formation, along with information about how to file for each one. The process is relatively simple, but there are a few details that make it different in each state. Although many states allow you to register an LLC online, others require filing by mail or in person.