How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC in Georgia?
Are you thinking about starting a business in Georgia? You might be wondering how long it takes to set up an LLC.
The timeline to get your Georgia LLC approved depends on your filing method. Online filing takes 1-2 weeks, while mail filing takes 4-5 weeks. If you want a faster approval time, Georgia offers expedited processing that cuts the waiting time to 2 business days.
This article explores the time it takes to get your LLC approved in Georgia, including tips for a quick and hitch-free approval process.
Georgia LLC Approval Time and Duration
Getting your LLC approved in Georgia takes different amounts of time based on how you file.
Mail Filing
Mailing your LLC paperwork to Georgia takes longer than filing online.
The standard processing time for mail filing is 15 business days after the state receives your documents. However, if you count mailing time, you will wait about 4-5 weeks.
This filing option requires you to mail your completed Articles of Organization, Transmittal Form, and $110 filing fee (comprising a $100 filing fee and a $10 paper filing service charge) to the Georgia Secretary of State’s office in Atlanta.
Online Filing
Filing your LLC online is faster and more convenient. The standard processing time for online submissions is 7-10 business days. This option is quicker than mail filing and doesn’t require transit time.
Online filing lets you submit your information and pay fees through the Secretary of State’s site. You can download your approved documents once processing is complete.
Georgia LLC Processing Time
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| LLC Filing Method | LLC Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online Filing | 7-10 business days |
| Mail Filing | 15 business days |
Should you file online or via mail?
You should file for an LLC online in Georgia. When you file online, your Georgia LLC application is processed within 7-10 business days, which is 1-2 weeks. This is the faster option.
In contrast, if you choose to mail your forms, expect it to take about 15 business days. This doesn’t include mailing time, so the total wait could be 4-5 weeks.
After your LLC is approved, you’ll get your official documents. You can download these right away by filing them online. You’ll have to wait for mail filings to arrive.
Expedited Filing Option for a Georgia LLC
Georgia offers expedited processing for LLC formation, allowing businesses to process their Articles of Organization more quickly.
Processing in 2 business days ($100) and the same business day ($250) are available for online and mail filings. However, processing in one hour ($1,000) is only available when you file by mail.
Ensure the Articles of Organization and the Transmittal Form are submitted online or by mail, marking your request for expedited processing.
How do you know when your LLC is approved in Georgia?
After filing your LLC paperwork in Georgia, you must wait for approval. The process differs slightly depending on how you file.
You can check your status through the Georgia Secretary of State website for online filings. Log into your account and look for updates on your application. Approval typically takes 7-10 business days.
If you filed by mail, the process takes about 4-5 weeks. Once processed, you’ll receive your approval documents in the mail.
Once approved, you’ll get important documents for your LLC: Certificate of Organization, Transmittal Information Form, and Receipt for fees paid. These papers confirm your LLC is officially recognized by Georgia.
Another way to check your filing status is to search the Georgia Secretary of State’s business database online. Enter your LLC name to see if it’s listed as active.
What does it mean if my status filing is Flawed or Deficient?
If your filing status is “Flawed/Deficient,” the information you submitted does not meet the requirements outlined in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.), or your filing is missing necessary documents.
Will I receive something in the mail once my documents have been filed?
Yes, you will receive your documents after filing. You will get your documents via email if your transmittal form or application includes an email address. If you do not provide an email address, the Georgia Secretary of State will mail your completed documents to you.
What’s the fastest way to get an LLC in Georgia?
The quickest way to get your LLC in Georgia is to file online. This approach typically takes 7-10 business days for processing.
To speed things up even more, you can pay an extra $100 for expedited processing, which reduces the wait time to just two business days. Alternatively, you can use the same-day processing option, which costs $250 and reduces the wait time to 24 hours.
Another fast option is to hire a registered agent service to file your paperwork online. These professionals know the process inside and out, which can help avoid delays caused by mistakes.
Do you need a registered agent for an LLC in Georgia?
Yes, you need a registered agent for your LLC in Georgia. It’s a legal requirement to form an LLC in the state.
A registered agent accepts important legal and tax documents for your business. They must have a physical address in Georgia and be available during normal business hours.
You can act as your registered agent, but this has some drawbacks: your address becomes public record, you must be available at that address during business hours, and you may miss important notices if you’re away.
A professional registered agent service offers benefits like privacy protection for your personal information, reliable document handling and forwarding, and flexibility to run your business from anywhere.
Professional registered agents also help ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines or legal notices. This can protect your LLC from potential fines or loss of good standing.
I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent for your LLC formation.
Northwest provides experienced registered agent services in all 50 states, including Georgia. They offer a free year of registered agent services, a free operating agreement, and competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
Using Northwest, you can focus on growing your business while they handle the administrative tasks of being your registered agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Georgia?
The basic filing fee for a Georgia LLC is $100. This covers the cost of submitting your Articles of Organization online. If you file by mail, you’ll need to pay $110.
What is the process for filing an LLC online in Georgia?
To file an LLC online in Georgia, go to the Secretary of State’s website, create an account, and select “Form a New Business.”
Choose “Domestic Limited Liability Company” as your business type, fill out the required information about your LLC, and pay the $100 fee, and submit your application.
What are the annual fees associated with an LLC in Georgia?
Georgia LLCs must file an annual registration and pay a $50 fee. This is due between January 1 and April 1. Failure to file can result in fines.
What is the typical waiting period for a business license approval in Georgia?
Business license approval times vary by city and county in Georgia. Most take 2-4 weeks to process applications. Some areas offer faster processing for an extra fee. Check with your local government for specific timelines and requirements.
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