How to Start an LLC in Louisiana (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re considering forming a Louisiana LLC, you’re making a smart choice for protecting your assets while enjoying flexibility in business operations.

To establish your LLC successfully, you must choose a unique business name, designate a registered agent, and create an LLC operating agreement.

But there’s more.

Filing your LLC Articles of Organization in Louisiana costs about $100, and the documents are approved in three to five business days, which is pretty fast if you ask me.

This guide compiles all the information you need to start an LLC in Louisiana today.

What Are the Steps to Start an LLC in Louisiana?

To start an LLC in the state of Louisiana, you need to:

• Step 1. Select a unique name for your Louisiana LLC
• Step 2. Designate a registered agent in Louisiana
• Step 3. File Louisiana LLC Articles of Organization and Initial Report with the state
• Step 4. Create an Operating Agreement
• Step 5. Get an EIN from the IRS
• Step 6. File a BOI Report
• Step 7. File your Louisiana annual reports

Let us dive more in-depth into these steps so I can show you how to get them:

Step 1: Choose a Unique Name for Your Louisiana LLC

Choosing a name for your Louisiana LLC is an essential first step. Your name must be unique and not the same as any other registered business in the state.

Start by checking the Louisiana Secretary of State’s online database. This tool will help you determine whether your desired name is already used.

Your LLC name must include one of the following:

• “Limited Liability Company”
• “L.L.C.”
• “L.C.”

The names of low-profit single-member LLCs (a specific type of Louisiana charitable organization organized as an LLC) must include one of the following:

• “Low-Profit Limited Liability Company”
• “L3C”
• “l3c”

Once you pick a name, consider filing a name reservation form. This form secures your chosen name for 120 days. It costs $25 and can be found on the Secretary of State’s website.

It’s also wise to think about online presence. Check if your name is available as a web domain and on social media platforms.

Businesses often operate under multiple names—one being their legal incorporation name and the other a trade name or DBA (doing-business-as) name. To register a DBA in Louisiana, ensure the name has not already been taken.

Afterward, you must file the necessary paperwork with the state to officially register the trade name, sometimes called an assumed name.

Step 2: Select a Louisiana Registered Agent for Your LLC

A registered agent acts as your LLC’s official representative. This person or business receives legal documents and important notices on behalf of your company. Choosing the right registered agent is essential. They help ensure that you meet legal obligations and keep your business in good standing.

Make sure to keep your registered agent’s information up to date. If you change agents, you must file the necessary paperwork with the Louisiana Secretary of State.

Who Can Be a Registered Agent?

You have a few options for who can be your Registered Agent in Louisiana:

• You: You can act as your registered agent, but remember you must be available during business hours to receive documents.
• A Family Member: A trusted family member can be your registered agent.
• An LLC Formation Service: Professional services offer expertise in handling official correspondence and ensuring compliance with state regulations.
• A Lawyer: A legal service firm can also serve as your registered agent, providing additional legal support if needed.

Requirements for Louisiana Registered Agents

Louisiana law requires registered agents to have a physical street address, not just a P.O. Box. The address must be where the agent can consistently receive legal documents and official mail during regular business hours.

Additionally, the registered agent must be at least 18 years old and available to accept service of process. This means they must be present to handle any legal notices or court documents delivered to the LLC.

What registered agents do I recommend for Louisiana?

I highly recommend Northwest registered agent services for obvious reasons.

They offer a range of benefits that set them apart, including a free year of registered agent service, which helps you save (about $300) on initial costs.

You’ll receive a complimentary operating agreement essential for outlining your LLC’s internal structure. My favorite part? Northwest also allows you to use their office address for your LLC filing, keeping your address off public records and enhancing your privacy.

Their free email forwarding service ensures you stay on top of important correspondence, and their exceptional customer support is always available to assist you whenever needed.

Step 3: File Louisiana LLC Articles of Organization

You must file the Articles of Organization to create your LLC in Louisiana. This document tells the state of your new business and includes vital details, such as your LLC’s name, purpose, and duration.

To file your Articles of Organization in Louisiana, follow these steps:

Step #1. Complete the Form: Obtain and complete the Articles of Organization form from the Louisiana Secretary of State website.

When filling out the Articles of Organization, make sure to include:

• The LLC’s name
• A brief statement of the LLC’s purpose
• The duration of the LLC (perpetual or limited)
• The signature of the organizers

Step #2: File Online or by Mail: You can file your Articles of Organization online through the Louisiana Secretary of State geauxBIZ System website or by mailing the completed form to:

Secretary of State, Commercial Division of Corporation
P.O. Box 94125
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9125

Step #3: Pay the Filing Fee: The filing fee is $100. You can pay an extra $30 for an expedited processing time of 24 hours and $50 for 2-4 hours.

What filing option should I choose?

If your business address is located within the following parishes, you must file your articles of organization online, as any submission by mail will be rejected:

• Ascension
• Bossier
• Caddo
• Calcasieu
• East Baton Rouge
• Jefferson
• Lafayette
• Livingston
• Orleans
• Ouachita
• Rapides
• Tammany
• Tangipahoa
• Terrebonne

If your LLC is located outside these parishes, you may file your articles of organization by postal mail, email, or fax.

If you file paper copies rather than using the online filing system, you must have the organizers’ and registered agents’ signatures on the articles of organization and the initial report notarized.

If you’re filing your articles of organization online using the Secretary of State’s geauxBIZ system, your application will also need to designate:

• Whether the LLC will file taxes as a sole proprietorship, corporation, or partnership
• The street address of the LLC’s office (and mailing address, if different)
• The name and addresses of the LLC’s registered agent(s)
• Whether the LLC is member-managed or manager-managed
• The names and street addresses of the LLC’s members (if member-managed) or managers (if manager-managed)
• An electronic signature of a member, manager, or organizer
• The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) description of the LLC’s primary business activity and correlated NAICS code
• The LLC’s federal EIN

If you file a paper application, in addition to the articles of organization form, you must file an initial report form that includes:

• The LLC’s street address
• The names and street addresses of each of the LLC’s registered agents
• The names and street addresses of each of the LLC’s initial managers or members
• The signature of each person who signed the articles of organization
• The signature of the LLC’s registered agent

Once the Secretary of State accepts your filing, your Louisiana LLC is officially active. You are now ready to conduct business.

Step 4: Prepare Your LLC Operating Agreement

An operating agreement is an essential document for your LLC in Louisiana. It acts as an internal document that outlines how your business will run.

This agreement details the roles of the members of your LLC. It covers how profits and losses are shared, voting rights, and what happens if a member leaves. Having this document can prevent disputes in the future.

While Louisiana does not legally require an operating agreement, it is highly recommended. Without it, your LLC will default to state rules, which may not suit your needs.

Here are crucial elements to include in your operating agreement:

• Ownership Structure: Listing all members and their ownership percentages.
• Management Roles: Specify who will manage the LLC. This can be member-managed or manager-managed.
• Voting Rights: Define how decisions will be made. Will all members have equal votes?
• Profit Distribution: Explain how profits and losses will be shared among members.
• Meeting Procedures: Outline how often meetings will occur and how members will be notified.
• Amendment Process: Describe how changes can be made to the agreement in the future.

Creating an operating agreement is an intelligent step in forming your Louisiana LLC. It clarifies everything for everyone involved and helps your business run smoothly. Additionally, it can enhance your LLC’s credibility and stability.

It serves as your LLC’s rulebook, guiding operations and avoiding conflicts down the line. Keeping everyone on the same page is even more vital if you have partners.

Step 5: Obtain an EIN for Your LLC

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number the IRS assigns. It would be best if you had it to identify your LLC for tax purposes. It’s necessary for various tasks, such as opening a business banking account, getting a business line of credit, and applying for permits.

How to Apply for an EIN:

• Online: Visit the IRS website. This is the fastest way to get your EIN.
• By Mail: Fill out Form SS-4 and send it to the IRS. This option takes longer.
• By Fax: You can also fax the completed Form SS-4.
• Phone: U.S. residents can call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 to apply.

How Much Does It Cost To Get EIN?

Obtaining an EIN is free. However, some services charge $100 or more to help you with the entire process.

How Does it Take to Obtain my EIN?

• Online: Get it immediately.
• By Mail: Expect 4 to 6 weeks.
• By Fax: Usually within 1-2 weeks.

Step 6: File a BOI Report

Filing a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report is essential for your LLC in Louisiana. This requirement helps increase transparency and fight illegal activities.

You must submit this report to FinCEN within 90 days of forming your LLC. Filing is free and can be done online at the FinCEN website.

It includes information about the owners and individuals with significant control over the business.

Your BOI report should include the following:

• Names of beneficial owners
• Addresses of these owners
• Identification numbers (like Social Security or driver’s license numbers)

Gather this information along with your LLC formation documents. This will help streamline the filing process.

Failure to file the BOI report can result in fines or other legal issues. To avoid complications, it’s best to handle this step promptly. By filing the BOI report, you help ensure your LLC meets legal requirements and maintains a good standing.

Step 7: File Annual Report for your Louisiana LLC

Every Louisiana LLC must file an Annual Report each year to maintain compliance and remain in good standing with the state. This applies to all LLCs, regardless of whether the business has been active or generated income.

You have two options for filing your Annual Report: mail or online. If you file by mail, you’ll need to print out the report, make any updates by hand, and send it along with a check or money order to the state.

Filing online requires a geauxBIZ account, which allows you to complete the form and pay using a credit card.

Filing online is typically faster and more convenient.

The filing fee for submitting the Annual Report by mail is $30 while filing online costs $35. Processing time for mailed reports is 1-2 business days, while online filings are processed within 15 minutes or less.

The Annual Report is due each year before your LLC’s anniversary date—the date the state approved your LLC.

For example, if your LLC was approved on September 10, 2024, your first report is due by September 10, 2025, and every year after that, by the same date. You can find your LLC’s anniversary date on your Certificate of Organization or by searching the state’s business database.

You can file your Annual Report 30 days before the due date. If your LLC’s anniversary date is October 10, 2024, you can submit your report as early as September 10, 2025.

If you fail to file your Annual Report by the due date, your LLC will be marked as “not in good standing.” After three consecutive years of non-filing, the state will revoke your LLC’s registration.

Since 2016, the Louisiana Secretary of State has transitioned to a digital notification system. Instead of receiving postcard reminders by mail, you will get email or text reminders approximately 30 days before your Annual Report is due.

It is still your responsibility to file on time, so it is recommended that you set a recurring calendar reminder to ensure compliance.

These steps will help you maintain your LLC’s status and avoid penalties.

What are the Different Methods To Start a Louisiana LLC?

You have several options for starting your LLC in Louisiana. Each method has its advantages and challenges. Below are three popular ways to form an LLC.

DIY LLC Formation in Louisiana

Forming an LLC by yourself is a straightforward option. You will fill out and submit the Louisiana Articles of Organization and pay the required filing fee.

All by yourself, no third party!

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: You save money by not hiring anyone.
• Control: You have complete oversight of each step.
• Learning Opportunity: You gain knowledge about the process.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming: It may take longer if you are unfamiliar with the process.
• Complexity: You must ensure all forms are correctly filled out.
• Privacy issue: If you serve as your registered agent, you risk having your address out there.
• Lack of Guidance: You might miss the necessary steps.

Using a Professional/Online LLC Formation Services

Many online services can help you form your LLC. These platforms guide you through the entire process, handling most paperwork.

Pros:

• Convenient: They manage the filing, saving you time.
• User-Friendly: Most platforms have easy-to-understand instructions.
• Support Available: Many offer customer service for questions.
• Privacy benefits: Most services allow you to use their address for free, so your address doesn’t get compromised

Cons:

• Costs: You’ll pay a service fee.
• Variable Quality: Some services may not be as reliable as others.

Hiring an Attorney

Working with an attorney is another option for forming your LLC. This method ensures you have professional legal guidance throughout the process.

Pros:

• Expertise: An attorney knows the legal requirements and can avoid pitfalls.
• Customization: Your LLC can be tailored to your specific business needs.
• Support with Complex Situations: Ideal for businesses with unique circumstances.

Cons:

• Higher Costs: Legal fees can be expensive.
• Dependence on Others: You may rely heavily on the attorney’s schedule.
• Potential Delays: The process may take longer due to attorney workloads.

What is The Cheapest Alternative Way to Form an LLC in Louisiana?

If you want to start an LLC in Louisiana on a budget, the most affordable option is to do it online. By filing the Articles of Organization directly with the Louisiana Department of State, you can keep costs between $125 and $150, depending on your needs.

This DIY approach helps you avoid the extra fees of hiring a service or lawyer, saving you money for other business expenses.

However, while DIY is cost-effective, it requires some effort. You’ll need to understand all the forms and regulations, and missing a detail could delay your application or create problems later.

Consider using a registered agent if you prefer not to handle everything yourself.

They can make the process smoother by ensuring you receive important documents and helping you stay compliant with state requirements. Although this adds a bit to the cost, it can provide valuable support and peace of mind.

Who Provides the Best LLC Services in Louisiana?

There are a myriad of Louisiana LLC services from which to choose. Choosing the wrong one can affect your Louisiana LLC formation timeline—I know this from my experience using a few and researching a dozen over the years.

Here are some top-rated options you should consider:

Best Louisiana LLC Service	Google Rating	LLC Formation Cost	Registered Agent Fee
Northwest Registered Agent	4.7/5	$39	Free for 1 year
Doola	4.6/5	$0 (plus state fees)	$297/year
Tailor Brands	4.4/5	$0 (plus state fees)	$199/year
ZenBusiness	N/A	$0 (plus state fees)	$199/year

Besides, the fact that other services bill you for their registered agent in the first year, and Northwest offers it for free, is a HUGE plus for me.

Northwest Registered Agent stands out in Louisiana LLC formation due to its commitment to transparency, customer service, and privacy. Using their address helps protect your personal information, making them a reliable choice.

How Much Does It Cost To Form an LLC in Louisiana?

Forming an LLC in Louisiana involves a few costs. The main fee is the $100 fee for filing the Articles of Organization, which officially creates your LLC in the eyes of the state.

Here’s a breakdown of the entire Louisiana LLC costs:

Requirement	Cost
New LLC Filing Fee (Articles of Organization)	$100
Reservation of LLC Name (optional)	$25
LLC Formation Service (optional)	$39 (via Northwest)
Registered Agent (optional)	$0 (via Northwest)
Annual Report	$30 (mail), $35 (online)
Total Estimated Cost	$130 – $200

When forming a new company in Louisiana, budgeting about $130-$200 for the first year is ideal. Then, if you want to go further, you can get other bells and whistles like a virtual mailbox, custom website, trademark services, premium EIN services, etc.

That said, the most significant (and essential) expense for every Louisiana business owner is filing the Articles of Organization, which costs $100.

Pros and Cons of Forming an LLC in Louisiana

6 Important Things To Do After Creating Your Louisiana LLC

After forming your Louisiana LLC, several essential steps can help you operate smoothly and stay compliant. These actions will set a strong foundation for your new business and ensure you meet legal and financial requirements.

1. Research the Best Licenses and Permits for Your Business

Different businesses in Louisiana need various licenses and permits to operate legally. Start by identifying what your specific business requires. This can include local, state, and federal licenses.

You can check with resources like the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website. They provide details about regulations and necessary permits. Common permits include:

• Health permits for food-related businesses.
• Occupational licenses are based on your profession.
• Zoning permits are based on where you operate.

Apply for these licenses as needed before starting operations to avoid fines.

2. Create Business Accounts for Your Louisiana LLC

Opening a separate bank account for your LLC is essential for keeping your business finances organized and distinct from your funds. This separation simplifies your accounting and helps safeguard your assets by clearly distinguishing between personal and business transactions.

When choosing a bank, look for one that offers business-friendly services, such as waived fees, free online banking, and other features that can benefit your business. To open the account, be prepared to provide your EIN and a copy of your Articles of Organization.

A dedicated business account streamlines your financial management and simplifies tax preparation.

Having all your business transactions in one place lets you easily track your income and expenses, ensuring everything is well-organized and accessible when tax season rolls around.

3. Understanding Louisiana Tax Requirements and Managing Your Taxes

Louisiana has specific tax obligations for LLCs. You need to address these. Start by obtaining your EIN, which is necessary for tax filing and opening bank accounts.

You may be subject to sales tax if you sell goods or services. Register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue for a sales tax permit.

You may also need to handle self-employment taxes on your income if you’re the owner.

Keep records of all income and expenses to simplify tax filing at the end of the year.

4. File your Louisiana Annual Report

Every Louisiana LLC must file an Annual Report each year to maintain compliance and remain in good standing with the state. This applies to all LLCs, regardless of whether the business has been active or generated income.

You have two options for filing your Annual Report: mail or online. If you file by mail, you’ll need to print out the report, make any updates by hand, and send it along with a check or money order to the state.

Filing online requires a geauxBIZ account, which allows you to complete the form and pay using a credit card.

Filing online is typically faster and more convenient.

The filing fee for submitting the Annual Report by mail is $30 while filing online costs $35. Processing time for mailed reports is 1-2 business days, while online filings are processed within 15 minutes or less.

The Annual Report is due each year before your LLC’s anniversary date—the date the state approved your LLC.

5. Get Business Insurance for an LLC

Just as you wouldn’t leave your home without coverage, your LLC also needs the right business insurance to guard against potential risks and liabilities. Insurance protects your company’s assets and ensures financial stability in case of unforeseen issues or legal claims.

Your insurance needs will vary based on your business operations.

For example, general liability insurance covers risks such as slip-and-fall accidents or property damage if your LLC operates from a physical storefront.

Conversely, if you run your business as a consultant and work remotely, you might only need professional liability insurance to cover potential service errors or omissions. Assessing your business needs helps you choose the appropriate coverage to protect your LLC.

6. Setup Your Business Online Presence (optional)

In today’s digital age, online presence is essential for attracting customers. Start by creating a professional website that showcases your business’s offerings. This can help build credibility and reach a broader audience.

Also, consider setting up relevant social media profiles for your business. Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to engage with your customers. Focus on providing valuable content and updates about your services.

While creating your online presence may be optional, it can significantly enhance your visibility in the market.

Louisiana LLC vs. S Corp vs. Partnerships vs. Sole Proprietorship vs. Corporations

Choosing the proper business structure in Louisiana can shape your success. Each option has pros and cons, so consider your business goals before deciding.

Here’s a quick overview of each option.

Sole Proprietorship

A Louisiana sole proprietorship is the most straightforward way to start a business. Imagine you’re running a lemonade stand on your own. You make all the decisions and keep all the profits.

However, there’s no legal separation between you and your business. If your lemonade stand faces financial trouble or legal issues, your assets, like your car or home, could be at risk. It’s easy to set up and manage, but it does leave you personally responsible for any business debts.

Partnership

A Louisiana partnership involves teaming up with one or more people to run a business together.

Think of it as joining forces with a friend to open a café. You share the profits and responsibilities, and you both make business decisions.

However, like a sole proprietorship, each partner is personally liable for any business debts or legal issues. If the business encounters financial trouble, your assets could be at risk, too. Partnerships are relatively easy to set up but require clear agreements between partners to avoid conflicts.

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

An LLC offers a blend of flexibility and protection.

Picture it as a protective umbrella over your lemonade stand. This structure separates your assets from your business, so if your LLC faces legal issues or debts, your personal belongings are generally safe.

LLCs are more formal than sole proprietorships or partnerships but offer flexibility in management and tax treatment. They are ideal for small—to medium-sized businesses that want liability protection without the complexity of a corporation.

S-Corporation

An S Corporation is a more structured business form.

Think of it as a business where owners are shareholders, much like a small-scale company with multiple investors. It protects liability and allows profits to pass through to your tax return, avoiding double taxation.

This means you report the income and losses on your tax return, which can be beneficial for tax purposes. However, S Corps have stricter operational requirements and formalities compared to LLCs.

Corporation

A Louisiana corporation is the most complex structure, suitable for larger businesses aiming for significant growth. Imagine a big company with many shareholders. A corporation offers robust liability protection and is a separate legal entity from its owners, meaning your assets are protected.

Corporations can raise capital more efficiently by issuing stock and can offer employee benefits.

However, they come with extensive regulatory requirements, formalities, and paperwork, making them more suitable for businesses with significant resources and expansion plans.

My Final Thoughts: Forming an LLC in Louisiana

Starting an LLC in Louisiana is an exciting step toward bringing your business idea to life. Although it might seem like many steps initially, breaking them down makes the process more manageable and ensures you cover all the essential bases.

To start an LLC in Louisiana, you need to follow these steps:

• Choose a name for your LLC.
• Select a registered agent for your business.
• File Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State.
• Create an Operating Agreement (not required but recommended).
• Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
• File a Beneficial Ownership Information Report if needed.
• File annual reports

The filing fee for the Articles of Organization is $100.

After forming your LLC, prepare for annual reports, which cost $30 yearly when filed by mail and $35 when filed online.

Forming an LLC in Louisiana can be straightforward if you follow the necessary steps. Be prepared to manage your paperwork and meet any deadlines.

These actions establish your business as a legal entity, offering benefits such as limited liability protection. This can help you operate confidently and focus on growing your business.

Learn More About Starting an LLC in Louisiana

If you need additional help to start an LLC in Louisiana, check out these valuable resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my registered agent in Louisiana?

Yes, you can change your registered agent in Louisiana. You must file a form with the Louisiana Secretary of State to do so.

How do I change my Louisiana LLC’s name?

To change the name of your LLC, file an amendment with the Louisiana Secretary of State. This form allows you to update your LLC’s name officially.

How do I renew my Louisiana LLC?

Your LLC in Louisiana must file an annual report to remain active. You can renew it online through the Secretary of State’s website.

How do I dissolve an LLC in Louisiana?

You must file a Certificate of Dissolution with the Louisiana Secretary of State to dissolve your LLC. You should also settle any debts and notify your registered agent.

How do I add a member to a Louisiana LLC?

To add a member to your LLC, update your operating agreement and file an amendment with the Secretary of State if necessary. Ensure all members agree to the changes.

How do I add a DBA to an LLC in Louisiana?

To add a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name, file a Trade Name Registration with the Louisiana Secretary of State. This allows your LLC to operate under a different name.

Can a minor own an LLC in Louisiana?

Yes, a minor can own an LLC in Louisiana but will need an adult to manage the business. This is because minors cannot enter into contracts.

When is the Louisiana Annual Report due?

Your LLC’s annual report is due every year before your anniversary date. Be sure to file on time to maintain your good standing.

Does LLC expire in Louisiana?

An LLC in Louisiana does not expire as long as you file the annual reports and pay the fees. Failing to do so can lead to administrative dissolution.

Can a non-resident open an LLC in Louisiana?

Yes, non-residents can open an LLC in Louisiana. You do not have to be a resident to form a business; follow the Northwest Registered Agent website filing requirements.

Can I buy a house or car with my LLC in Louisiana?

Yes, you can buy property or vehicles in the name of your LLC. This can provide liability protection but ensure the purchases are for business purposes.

Can you have multiple businesses under one LLC in Louisiana?

Yes, you can operate multiple businesses under one LLC in Louisiana. However, it’s often better to consider separate LLCs for each business to limit liability.

Is Louisiana an excellent state in which to form an LLC? Is it worth it?

Louisiana offers a favorable environment for LLC formation, with a moderate filing fee and manageable regulations. Many entrepreneurs find it worth it due to the state’s unique business climate.

Can one person form an LLC and start an LLC in Louisiana?

Yes, one person can form an LLC in Louisiana. You can be your LLC’s sole member and manager, simplifying the process for single owners.