How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC in South Dakota?
Starting a business in South Dakota is an exciting opportunity, and forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) offers tax benefits and liability protection. You’re not alone if you’re wondering how long it takes to get an LLC in South Dakota.
The timeline for processing and approving an LLC in South Dakota can vary depending on the filing method and how quickly the state processes your application. Online filings are approved immediately, while mail filings take a week.
This article outlines the typical timeframes for getting an LLC approved in South Dakota and offers tips to smoothen the process.Â
South Dakota LLC Approval Time and Duration
South Dakota offers two filing methods with different processing times. Let’s examine each option’s time frame.
Online Filing
You can file your LLC online through South Dakota’s Secretary of State website. This is the fastest way to form your LLC. You’ll get instant approval when you submit your Articles of Organization online. The system processes your application right away.
You can download your LLC documents as soon as you complete the filing. This means you can use your new LLC the same day you apply.
Mail Filing
If you prefer to file by mail, it will take longer to get your LLC approved. You need to print and fill out the Articles of Organization form. Then, mail it to the Secretary of State’s office.
The processing time for mailed applications is 1-2 business days. This doesn’t include mailing time. You should add a few extra days for your documents to reach the office and return to you. The total time for mail filing is usually 1 week.
South Dakota LLC Processing Time
South Dakota offers two main options for filing your LLC paperwork:
| LLC Filing Method | LLC Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online Filing | Immediate |
| Mail Filing | 1-2 business days |
Should you file online or via mail?
Online filing is the faster and more convenient choice for forming your South Dakota LLC. When you file online, you get immediate approval and can download your documents.
Mail filings take longer to process. The state needs 1-2 business days to review mailed paperwork. You have to factor in mailing time, adding several days to the process.
You can complete the entire LLC formation process from your computer with online filing. This saves you time and hassle compared to printing and mailing forms. The online system helps prevent errors by guiding you through each step.
Another benefit of filing online is 24/7 availability. You can submit your LLC paperwork any time that works for you, even outside of normal business hours.
Online filing is your best bet for the quickest and easiest LLC formation in South Dakota. You’ll get your business up and running faster with less waiting and paperwork.
South Dakota LLC Expedited Option
South Dakota offers an expedited filing option for LLC approval. This is great news if you need your LLC formed quickly.
The standard processing time for mailed LLC filings in South Dakota is 1-2 business days. But you can speed things up even more. For an extra $50 fee, you can get 24-hour expedited processing. This applies to mailed filings only.
The expedited option can be useful if you’re in a hurry to start your business. But remember, online filing is the fastest choice overall.
To use the expedited service, check the appropriate box on your LLC formation paperwork. Include the extra $50 fee with your regular filing fee.
The South Dakota Secretary of State processes these requests quickly. You’ll have your approved LLC paperwork back in just one day.
How do you know when your LLC is approved in South Dakota?
After filing your LLC paperwork in South Dakota, you’ll want to know when it’s officially approved. The approval process and timeline differ based on how you submit your documents.
If you file online, you’ll get instant approval. The South Dakota Secretary of State’s website processes online filings right away. You can print your confirmation and LLC documents immediately after submitting them.
For mail-in filings, you’ll need to wait for the state to process your paperwork. This takes 1-2 business days. The state will mail you a paper copy of your approved LLC documents.
South Dakota offers a handy business search tool on the Secretary of State’s website. You can use this to check your LLC’s status anytime. Simply enter your company name to see if it’s active in the state records.
Keep an eye on your email. The state often sends approval notifications electronically, even for mail-in filings. This can be a quick way to find out if your LLC is approved before getting official papers.
How can I get a Certificate of Good Standing?
To obtain a Certificate of Good Standing for any active entity, visit the Secretary of State’s website. You can pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. After payment, a color PDF will be available for immediate download. Note that online requests are not emailed or mailed, and once you leave the download page, you cannot access the document again, so be sure to save it right away!
Do I have to file an Annual Report?
Yes, you must file an Annual Report every year on the 1st day of the anniversary month when your business was registered with the Secretary of State. You can file your Annual Report online. Accepted payment methods include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
What’s the fastest way to get an LLC in South Dakota?
The quickest way to set up an LLC in South Dakota is to do it yourself online. You can file the Articles of Organization through the Secretary of State’s website and get approved instantly. This process is faster than mailing in paper forms.
To move even faster, gather all your business details before you start. This includes your chosen LLC name, business purpose, registered agent information, and management structure,
Having these ready will help you fill out the forms quickly and accurately. Remember to double-check all information before submitting it to avoid delays.
Using a professional registered agent service can also speed things up. They’ll handle the paperwork and make sure everything is filed correctly.
Do you need a registered agent for an LLC in South Dakota?
Yes, you need a registered agent for your South Dakota LLC. This is a legal requirement. Your registered agent accepts important documents and legal notices on behalf of your business.
You have two main options for a registered agent:
- Act as your own registered agent.
- Hire a professional registered agent service.
Being your own registered agent is free. But you must be available during business hours and use a physical South Dakota address.
A professional service costs money. However, it offers privacy and convenience. They handle paperwork and ensure you don’t miss important notices.
I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent for your LLC formation.
Northwest Registered Agent is a top choice for LLC formation and management. They provide reliable document handling, privacy protection, compliance reminders, and expert support.
Using Northwest can save you time and stress. They help keep your LLC in good standing with the state. Northwest provides the most value for business owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps involved in registering an LLC in South Dakota?
To register an LLC in South Dakota, choose a business name, pick a registered agent, file the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State (online or by mail), create an operating agreement for your LLC, and get any needed business licenses.
What are the annual filing requirements for an LLC in South Dakota?
South Dakota LLCs must file an annual report. This is due by the first day of the second month after the LLC’s formation date. The filing fee is $50 if done online. You can also file by mail for $65. Make sure to file on time to keep your LLC in good standing.
What are the benefits of forming an LLC in South Dakota?
South Dakota offers several perks for LLCs. There’s no state income tax. Asset protection laws are strong. The state has low fees and simple filing rules. You don’t need to list member names on public documents. This gives more privacy.
How do I conduct an LLC search in South Dakota?
You can search for South Dakota LLCs on the Secretary of State’s website. Use their business name search tool. Enter the LLC name you want to check. The search will show if that name is taken. It also gives info on existing businesses.
What are the laws governing LLCs in South Dakota?
South Dakota LLCs are governed by Chapter 47-34A of the state code. This covers formation, management, and dissolution. It sets rules for naming, registered agents, and filing requirements. The law outlines member rights and responsibilities.
What is the process for filing an annual report for an LLC in South Dakota?
To file your annual report, go to the Secretary of State website. Log in to your account. Select your LLC and choose to file the annual report. Update any changed info. Pay the filing fee. You’ll get a confirmation when it’s done. Mark your calendar to file each year.
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