How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC in South Carolina?
Starting an LLC in South Carolina protects your personal assets and can help you save on taxes. But how long does it take to get your LLC up and running?
The time it takes to form an LLC in South Carolina varies by filing method. Online filings take 1-2 business days, while mail filings take 2-4 weeks.
This article details the typical timeframes for obtaining an LLC in South Carolina and provides helpful tips for a smooth process.
South Carolina LLC Approval Time and Duration
South Carolina offers two main options for filing: by mail or online.
Mail Filing
The process of forming an LLC in South Carolina takes longer when you file by mail. You must send your completed forms to the Secretary of State’s office in Columbia.
Mail filing takes 2-4 weeks for LLC approval. The state usually processes mailed filings in 5-10 business days (1-2 weeks) and another 1-2 weeks for your documents to travel through the mail system.
Online Filing
Filing online is faster for starting an LLC in South Carolina. The Secretary of State’s office processes online filings in 1-2 business days. This quick turnaround makes online filing popular for many new business owners.
Once approved, you can download your LLC documents right away. There’s no waiting for mail delivery.
South Carolina LLC Processing Time
Here’s a breakdown of the South Carolina LLC processing times:
| LLC Filing Method | LLC Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online Filing | 1-2 business days |
| Mail Filing | 5-10 business days |
Should you file online or via mail?
Online filing is faster and more convenient. You can submit your documents electronically and get approval within 1-2 business days.
Mail filing takes longer. You’ll need to print and send your forms by post. The state then processes them in 5-10 business days. Add mailing time both ways, and you’re looking at 2-4 weeks total.
With online filing, you can download your approved documents right away. This lets you start your business sooner. It’s easier to fix any mistakes quickly.
Mail filing has more room for error. Forms can get lost or delayed in transit. Any issues will take longer to resolve, further delaying your LLC formation. Given the speed and ease, online filing is the better choice for most people starting an LLC in South Carolina.
Expedited Filing Option for a South Carolina LLC
South Carolina does not offer an expedited filing option for LLC approval. The state processes all LLC applications in the order they are received.
For the fastest service, you can file your LLC formation documents online. Online filings are typically processed within 1-2 business days. If you submit your paperwork by mail, the process takes longer.
While there’s no way to speed up the process, planning can help. Start your LLC formation early to ensure your paperwork is in time for important deadlines.
How do you know when your LLC is approved in South Carolina?
After filing your LLC paperwork in South Carolina, you’ll want to know when it’s officially approved. The approval process can vary depending on how you submit your documents.
If you file online, you’ll typically receive an email confirmation within 1-2 business days. This email will let you know if your LLC has been approved or if any changes are needed.
For mail filings, the process takes longer. You can expect to receive a mailed confirmation within 5-7 business days. This letter will inform you of your LLC’s approval status.
South Carolina also offers a Business Entities Online search tool. You can use this to check your LLC’s status: go to the Secretary of State’s website, click on “Business Entities Search,” enter your LLC name, and look for “Active” status.
If your LLC shows as “Active,” it means your filing has been approved. The search results will also show your filing date and other basic company info.
Remember to keep your approval documents safe. You may need them for future business matters like opening a bank account or applying for licenses.
What’s the fastest way to get an LLC in South Carolina?
The quickest way to form an LLC in South Carolina is by filing online yourself. The state’s online system processes applications in 1-2 business days. If you prefer not to file online, you can mail in your application. But this takes longer, 3-4 weeks.
To file online, visit the SC Secretary of State website, create an account, and complete the Articles of Organization form.
Using a professional registered agent service can speed up the process. They can handle the paperwork and ensure everything is filed correctly.
Remember to gather all necessary information before starting. This includes your LLC name, principal office address, registered agent details, and names of LLC members or managers.
Should you use a Registered Agent in South Carolina?
You have two main options for a registered agent in South Carolina: hiring a professional service or acting as your own agent.
Hiring a professional registered agent offers privacy protection for your personal address, reliable mail handling and document forwarding, and the assurance that you will not miss important legal notices.
Acting as your own registered agent is free but comes with some challenges:
- Your personal address becomes a public record.
- You must be available during business hours.
- Risk of missing important documents if you’re away.
- Less privacy and potential for unwanted solicitations.
For most LLC owners, using a professional service is worth the extra cost. It provides peace of mind and helps your business run smoothly.
I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent for your LLC formation.
Northwest Registered Agent is a top choice for LLC formation and management. They offer competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and compliance reminders to keep your LLC in good standing.
Using Northwest can save you time and hassle as you start and grow your South Carolina LLC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps involved in forming an LLC in South Carolina?
Here are the steps: choose a unique business name for your LLC, pick a registered agent to receive legal papers, file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State, pay the filing fee, create an operating agreement, and get any needed licenses or permits.
What fees are associated with registering an LLC in South Carolina?
The main fee is $110 to file Articles of Organization. You’ll pay an extra $15 admin fee too. Other costs may include hiring a registered agent or getting special licenses.
What documents are required to establish an LLC in South Carolina?
You must file Articles of Organization with the state. This form includes your LLC’s name, address, and registered agent details. You might need an operating agreement, though it’s not filed with the state.
What is the average processing time for an LLC application in South Carolina?
Standard processing usually takes 1-2 business days. This starts after the state receives your complete application. Busy times of year may cause slight delays. Online filings are often faster than mailed-in forms.
How can I check the status of my LLC registration in South Carolina?
You can check your LLC status on the South Carolina Secretary of State website. Use their business entities search tool. Enter your LLC name or filing number. The site will show if your LLC is active or still pending.
Is there an expedited service for LLC formation in South Carolina?
No, South Carolina doesn’t offer expedited processing whether by mail or online filing.
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