How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC in Pennsylvania?
Many people wonder how long the process takes and what timeline it takes for Pennsylvania to form an LLC.
The time it takes to get an LLC approved in Pennsylvania depends on the filing method. If you file online, the process takes 5-7 days, while if you file by mail, expect LLC approval in 2 weeks.
This article outlines the typical timeframes for obtaining an LLC in Pennsylvania and provides tips to streamline the process.
Pennsylvania LLC Approval Time and Duration
Pennsylvania offers two main filing options with varying processing speeds.
Online Filing
You can file your LLC online through the Pennsylvania Department of State website. This is the fastest method.
Online filings typically take 5-7 days for approval. Once approved, you can download your LLC documents right away.
The online system is available 24/7. You must create an account and pay the filing fee by credit card. Ensure you have all your LLC details ready before starting the application. Double-check everything for accuracy to avoid delays.
Mail Filing
Mailing in your LLC paperwork takes longer. The total approval time for mail filings is about 2 weeks. This includes 1 week for processing at the state office and extra days for mailing time both ways.
To file by mail: download and fill out the Certificate of Organization form, include a check for the filing fee, and mail everything to the provided address.
Using certified mail can help you track your application. Keep copies of all documents you send. The state will mail back your approved LLC paperwork.
Pennsylvania LLC Processing Time
Here’s a breakdown of LLC filing options and processing times in Pennsylvania:
| LLC Filing Method | LLC Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Mail Filing | 5-7 days (plus mailing time) |
| Online Filing | 5-7 days |
Should you file online or via mail?
Online filing is the faster option for setting up your Pennsylvania LLC. It cuts the wait time almost in half compared to mailing your documents.
When you file online, you can download your approved documents right away. This saves you from waiting for papers to arrive in the mail. The online system also reduces errors. You can fix mistakes as you go, avoiding delays from rejected forms.
Filing online is also more eco-friendly. It uses less paper and cuts down on transportation needs. For the quickest results, choose the online filing method. Your LLC can be up and running in about a week.
Remember, these times are estimates. Actual processing may vary depending on the state office’s current workload.
Expedited Filing Option for a Pennsylvania LLC
You can speed up the LLC formation process in Pennsylvania by using expedited filing options. These are only available for online and in-person filings, not for mail submissions.
The Pennsylvania Department of State offers three expedited service levels:
- Same-day service: $100 extra fee
- Three-hour service: $300 extra fee
- One-hour service: $1,000 extra fee
To use expedited filing, you must submit your LLC formation documents online through the Pennsylvania Department of State website. Choose your desired expedited service level and pay the additional fee.
Keep in mind that expedited processing doesn’t guarantee approval of your LLC. It only ensures a faster review of your application. The state may still request changes or additional information if needed.
By using expedited service, you can potentially have your LLC formed much faster, even as quickly as an hour.
How do you know when your LLC is approved in Pennsylvania?
After submitting your LLC paperwork, you’ll want to know when it’s officially approved. Pennsylvania offers a few ways to check on your LLC’s status.
If you file online, you’ll get an email confirmation when your LLC is approved. This is the fastest way to find out. For mail filings, the state will send you a paper approval certificate. This can take a few weeks to arrive in your mailbox.
You can also search for your LLC on the Pennsylvania Department of State website. Go to their business entity search page and enter your company name. If it shows up as “active,” your LLC is approved.
Keep in mind that approval times can vary. Online filings are usually faster than mail, but during busy times, the state may take longer to process applications.
What’s the fastest way to get an LLC in Pennsylvania?
The quickest way to form an LLC in Pennsylvania is to file online and use expedited processing.
Online filing takes about 5-7 days to process, but if you pay for expedited processing, you can get approval on the same day.
Another option is to use a registered agent service. These companies can handle the filing process for you. While not as fast and less expensive as doing it yourself, they can save you time and effort.
A professional registered agent service is recommended because they know the requirements and can catch mistakes that delay the formation process.
Do you need a registered agent for an LLC in Pennsylvania?
Yes, you need a registered agent for your LLC in Pennsylvania. This is a legal requirement when you form an LLC in the state.
A registered agent accepts legal documents and official mail for your business. They must have a physical address in Pennsylvania and be available during normal business hours.
If you live in Pennsylvania, you can act as your own registered agent. However, this has some downsides: your home address becomes a public record, you must be available at that address during business hours, and you may miss important documents if you’re away.
Using a professional registered agent service keeps your home address off public records, gives you the flexibility to be unavailable during business hours at your registered agent, and ensures you never miss important legal notices.
I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent for your LLC formation.
Northwest Registered Agent can handle your LLC formation and act as your registered agent. This simplifies the process and ensures you meet all legal requirements.
With over 20 years of experience, Northwest Registered Agent stands out for its exceptional customer support.
One of their standout features is the ability to use their address for your LLC filings, providing an extra layer of privacy by keeping your address off public records. This unique benefit sets Northwest apart from other filing companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to register an LLC in Pennsylvania?
Here are the steps: choose a unique name for your LLC, file a Certificate of Organization with the Pennsylvania Department of State, pay the required filing fee, create an operating agreement, and get an EIN from the IRS.
What is the typical processing time for an LLC application in Pennsylvania?
Online filings take 5-7 business days to process. Mail-in applications can take up to 2 weeks. The state no longer offers same-day processing for walk-in filings.
What are the costs associated with forming an LLC in Pennsylvania?
The main cost is the $125 filing fee for the Certificate of Organization. You may have additional expenses like hiring a registered agent or getting professional help.
How can one verify the approval status of an LLC in Pennsylvania?
You can check your LLC’s status on the Pennsylvania Department of State website. Use their business entity search tool and enter your LLC’s name or entity number.
What is the most expedient method of obtaining an LLC in Pennsylvania?
Filing online is the fastest way to form an LLC in Pennsylvania. It takes 5-7 business days, while mailed applications can take up to 2 weeks to process.
What documentation is required to establish an LLC in Pennsylvania?
You need to file a Certificate of Organization, which includes your LLC’s name, address, registered agent information, and effective date. You don’t need to submit an operating agreement to the state.
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