How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC Approved?
Starting an LLC can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. The timeline depends on where (LLC state) you form your business and how (online or mail) you file the paperwork.
The state you choose for your LLC plays a BIG role in how fast you can get approved. Some states process LLC applications quickly, while others may take longer. Filing online is often quicker than mailing in your forms.
Your filing method and the state’s workload can also affect your timeline. During busy times of the year, it might take longer to get your LLC approved.
If you need your LLC set up quickly, many states offer expedited processing for an extra fee.
US LLC Approval Time and Duration
Getting an LLC approved in the US takes different amounts of time, depending on how you file and your state.
Online Filing
Online LLC filing is usually the fastest way to get approved. The approval time can vary by state, but it typically ranges from a few hours to a few days. Some states offer immediate approval, while others may take up to a week.
Here are a few state-specific examples.
- California: 3-8 business days
- Texas: 10-15 business days
- Florida: 2-5 business days
- New York: Immediately
- Wyoming: Immediately
Mail Filing
Mailing your LLC paperwork takes longer than filing it online. You need to add extra time for mailing documents to the state, state processing, and return mailing of approval.
When filed by mail, the LLC is often approved in 1 to 4 weeks. Some states, like New York, Texas, and Maryland, can take up to 8 weeks for mail filings.
Using certified mail helps you track your documents. Be sure to double-check all forms before mailing to avoid delays from errors.
Here are some state-specific examples.
- California: 8 business days (plus mail time)
- Texas: 4-8 weeks (plus mail time)
- Florida: 12 business days (plus mail time)
- New York: 3-5 weeks (plus mail time)
- Wyoming: 10-15 business days (plus mail time)
Expedited Filing
Many states offer faster LLC approval for an extra fee. This can significantly reduce the approval time.
Expedited filing can take as little as 24 hours or up to a few days, depending on the state and the level of expedited service requested. Fees range from $50 to $1,000 depending on the state and how fast you need approval.
Here are some state-specific examples.
- California: 24-hour processing for an additional fee of $350
- Texas: 4-5 business days processing for an additional fee of $25
- New York: 24-hour processing for an additional fee of $25
- Delaware: 24-hour processing for an additional fee of $50-$100
LLC Processing Time & Approval By States
Here’s a table showing LLC processing times – by state – for all 50 states:
| State | Online Filing | Mail Filing | Expedited Filing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Immediately | 1 week 1-2 business days (plus mail time) | Not Available |
| Alaska | Immediately | 10-15 business days (plus mail time) | Not Available |
| Arizona | 14-16 business days | 14-16 business days (plus mail time) | Next day, same day, and 2 hours |
| Arkansas | 3-7 business days | 2-3 weeks (plus mail time) | Not Available |
| California | 3-8 business days | 8 business days (plus mail time) | 4-hour, same day, and 24-hour |
| Colorado | 1 business day | Not Available | Not Available |
| Connecticut | 2-3 business days | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) | 24 hours |
| Delaware | 10 business days | 10 business days (plus mail time) | Same day, next day, 2-hour, and 1-hour |
| Florida | 2-5 business days | 12 business days (plus mail time) | Not Available |
| Georgia | 7-10 business days | 15 business days (plus mail time) | 2 business days, same business day, and 1 hour |
| Hawaii | 3-5 business days | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) | 1-3 business days |
| Idaho | 5-7 business days | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) | Same day, 8-hour |
| Illinois | 5-10 business days | 7-14 business days (plus mail time) | 24 hours |
| Indiana | 1 business day | 5 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Iowa | 1 business day | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Kansas | Immediately | 2-3 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Kentucky | Immediately | 1 business day (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Louisiana | 3-5 business days | 3-5 business days (plus mail time) | 24 hours |
| Maine | Not Available | 10-30 business days (plus mail time) | 24 hours and same day |
| Maryland | 7-10 business days | 5-8 weeks (plus mail time) | 7-10 business days |
| Massachusetts | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Michigan | 10 business days | 10 business days (plus mailing time) | 24-hour, same-day, 2-hour, and 1-hour |
| Minnesota | Immediately | 11-12 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Mississippi | 1-2 business days | Not available | Not available |
| Missouri | Immediately | 15-20 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Montana | 5-6 business days | Not available | 24 hours and 1 hour |
| Nebraska | 2-3 business days | 2-3 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Nevada | 1 business day | 20 business days (plus mail time) | 24 hours, 2 hours, and 1 hour |
| New Hampshire | 7-10 business days | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| New Jersey | 1 business day | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| New Mexico | 1-3 business days | 15-20 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| New York | Immediately | 3-5 weeks (plus mailing time) | 24-hour, same-day, and 2-hour |
| North Carolina | 2-5 business days | 2-5 business days (plus mail time) | 24 hours and same day |
| North Dakota | 5 business days | 5 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Ohio | 1 business day | 1 business day (plus mail time) | Same day, next day, and 2-day |
| Oklahoma | 2-3 business days | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Oregon | 2-3 business days | 4-6 weeks (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Pennsylvania | 5-7 days | 5-7 days (plus mail time) | Same day, 3-hour, and 1-hour |
| Rhode Island | 3-4 business days | 3-4 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| South Carolina | 1-2 business days | 3-4 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| South Dakota | Immediately | 1-2 business days (plus mail time) | 24-hour |
| Tennessee | Immediately | 3-5 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Texas | 10-15 business days | 4-8 weeks (plus mail time) | 4-5 business days |
| Utah | 2 business days | 3-7 business days (plus mail time) | 2 business days |
| Vermont | 1 business day | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
| Virginia | 2-5 business days | 2-5 business days (plus mail time) | Next day |
| Washington | 12-14 business days | 5-6 weeks (plus mail time) | 3 business days |
| West Virginia | 5-10 business days | 5-10 business days (plus mail time) | 24-hour, 2-hour, and 1-hour |
| Wisconsin | Immediately | 5 business days (plus mail time) | Next day |
| Wyoming | Immediately | 10-15 business days (plus mail time) | Not available |
Remember, these processing times can change due to the state’s workload. Check with your state’s Secretary of State office for the most up-to-date processing times.
How long does it take to get an LLC? (Factors and Timelines to Consider)
The timeline for getting an LLC approved depends on your state, filing method, and paperwork accuracy.
Name Approval
Before forming your LLC, you need to choose a unique name. This process can take 1-3 business days in most states. Some states offer instant name checks online.
Here are some examples.
- California: Name approval is usually part of the Articles of Organization filing and can take 5-7 business days.
- Texas: Name approval is typically done instantly online.
- New York: Name approval can take up to 24 hours if done online.
To speed up the process, research your name beforehand. Make sure it’s not already taken by another business, and avoid names that are too similar to existing companies.
Articles of Organization Filing
The Articles of Organization is the primary document required to form an LLC. The time it takes to process this document can vary:
- California: Online filings take 8 business days, while mail filings take 3 weeks.
- Florida: Online filings are processed within 5 business days, and mail filings take 3 to 4 weeks.
- Texas: Online filings can be approved within 13-15 business days, and mail filings take 4-8 weeks.
Filing your LLC articles of organization is usually faster online than via mail.
Operating Agreement and EIN
While not always required by the state, having an Operating Agreement is highly recommended. You can draft one in a day or two.
Getting an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS is quick. You can get it instantly online. But if you apply for an EIN by mail, it can take 4-5 weeks. For faster results, use the IRS online application system.
Additional permits and licenses
Depending on your business type and location, you may need additional permits and licenses:
- California: Some businesses may require state-specific permits, which can add a few days to weeks to the process.
- New York: Certain businesses need local permits, which can take additional time.
- Texas: Industry-specific permits can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to obtain.
Research your state and local requirements early. This can help you plan for any extra time needed.
Times of the year
The time of year can also impact how long it takes to form an LLC:
- End of Fiscal Year: State offices are often busier, leading to longer processing times. Due to new-year business formations and end-of-year filings, January and December are often busy.
- Holiday Seasons: Processing times can be delayed due to holidays and reduced staffing. Summer months might see slower processing times due to staff vacations. Spring and fall tend to have more consistent processing speeds.
Plan if you’re forming your LLC during peak times. Consider expedited filing options if available in your state.
Type of LLC processing
Your chosen filing method impacts processing time:
- Online Filing: Generally the fastest, often taking a few days.
- Mail Filing: Slower, can take several weeks.
- Expedited Filing: Available in many states for an additional fee, can reduce processing time to as little as 24 hours.
Many states now prefer or require online filing. This has sped up processing times across the board.
Document correctness
Errors in your LLC paperwork can cause delays. Common mistakes include missing signatures, incomplete information, and incorrect filing fees.
Double-check all forms before submitting. If available, use state-provided checklists. Correct submissions can save you weeks of back-and-forth with the state.
Complexity Of Your Business Structure
The complexity of your LLC can affect how long it takes to get approved:
- Single-Member LLCs: Generally quicker to process.
- Multi-Member LLCs: These may require additional documentation and take longer.
- Series LLCs: These are available in some states and may take additional time due to their complexity.
Keep your initial LLC structure simple if time is a concern. You can always make changes later as your business grows.
How do you know when your LLC is approved in the US?
When your LLC is approved in the United States, you will typically receive a formal notification from the state where you filed.
This notification can take various forms depending on the state’s procedures and your chosen filing method.
You often receive an email confirmation for online filings with a copy of the approved Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation attached. This email may include a unique identification number assigned to your LLC by the state.
For mail filings, a physical letter or certificate will be sent to the address provided in your application.
Some states also offer online portals to check your filing status and download official documents once your LLC is approved.
Additionally, you may receive a stamped and approved copy of your Articles of Organization, which serves as official proof of your LLC’s existence.
Keep these documents in a safe place. They are essential for opening a business bank account, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, and conducting other business activities.
How Long Does it Take to Get an LLC in 50 States
Why is my LLC taking so long?
If your LLC formation is taking longer than expected, don’t worry—it happens sometimes, and there are a few reasons why. First off, the state you’re filing in plays a big role. Some states just take longer to process documents due to high demand or backlogs. For example, if you’re filing in a popular state like California or Delaware, expect delays, especially if you didn’t pay for expedited processing.
Another reason could be mistakes or missing information in your paperwork.
If the state finds an error—like a name conflict or incomplete forms—it usually sends it back for correction, which can add days or even weeks to the timeline.
It’s also possible that you might be waiting for additional steps, like publishing your LLC notice (required in states like New York). Finally, if you’re using a third-party service, delays can happen if they don’t submit the documents promptly.
Speaking of services, some LLC formation companies have been known to drag their feet for no reason, which is why it’s crucial to vet your provider and use a reputable service.
A good service will submit your documents quickly and keep you updated throughout the process. If you’re in a rush, consider checking your filing status online or contacting your registered agent for updates.
What’s the fastest way to get an LLC in the US?
The quickest method to form an LLC is to handle the process yourself. This approach lets you skip intermediaries and save time.
Many states offer online filing, which can speed things up. Some even provide same-day or next-day processing for an extra fee.
Here’s a quick breakdown of steps:
- Choose a business name.
- File Articles of Organization online.
- Pay state fees.
- Opt for expedited processing if available.
Another option is to use a professional registered agent service like Northwest Registered Agent to streamline the process. They can help manage paperwork and ensure compliance. Read my Northwest registered agent review here.
Do you need a registered agent for an LLC in the US?
Yes, you need a registered agent for an LLC in the United States. A registered agent is a designated individual or service responsible for receiving legal documents, government notices, and other important correspondence on behalf of your LLC.
The registered agent must have a physical address in the state where your LLC is formed and be available during regular business hours.
Many prefer to use the best registered agent services to handle their LLC formation and correspndence needs, allowing them to focus more on other vital aspects for business growth.
You can act as your own registered agent, which can save you money in the short term. This option can be feasible if you have a business location in your chosen state and are available during standard business hours.
Alternatively, you can hire a professional registered agent service. These services specialize in managing legal documents. They provide a reliable physical address and are available during all required business hours.
Hiring a professional registered agent maintains your privacy and ensures compliance with state deadlines.
I highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent for your LLC formation.
Northwest Registered Agent is known for its reliability and excellent customer support. It offers a wide range of services, including compliance alerts, document scanning, and a secure online portal for managing documents.
Their transparent pricing and commitment to privacy make them an excellent choice for any LLC looking to hire a professional registered agent.
By choosing Northwest Registered Agent, you can ensure that your business remains compliant and that you never miss an important notice, all while maintaining your privacy and focusing on what you do best—running your business.
Best Registered Agent Service: Northwest
Our top recommendation is Northwest Registered Agent. Unlike other services charging $300/year, Northwest offers the first year FREE for new LLCs. Enjoy registered agent service, email forwarding, privacy protection, and expert support. Renewals are just $125/year, making it a no-brainer.
FAQs on LLC Processing Time
What is the LLC’s effective date?
The LLC’s effective date is when it officially begins to exist as a legal entity. This date is usually when the state approves and files your formation documents. You can also choose a future date if you want your LLC to start later.
When is the best time to start an LLC?
The best time to start an LLC is before you begin doing business. This protects you from personal liability from the start. Many people form LLCs at the beginning of a calendar year for simpler tax filing.
Can I expedite my LLC?
Yes, most states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. This can speed up approval from weeks to just a few days. Fees and processing times vary by state.
How much does an LLC cost?
LLC costs vary by state. Typical fees range from $50 to $500 for filing. You may also need to pay for a registered agent, operating agreement, and business license. Ongoing costs include annual reports and taxes.
How long does it take to set up a US LLC?
Setting up an LLC usually takes 1-2 weeks after you file your paperwork. Some states process forms in just 3-5 business days. Others may take up to 6 weeks. Expedited service can reduce this time significantly.
How do I apply for a US LLC?
To apply for a US LLC, choose a business name and state, file Articles of Organization with your state’s business office, pay the filing fee, get an EIN from the IRS, create an operating agreement, and open a business bank account.
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