How Much Does an LLC Cost in Indiana? (2024 Filing Fees)

Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Indiana is more straightforward than expected. The initial cost of forming an LLC in Indiana is around $95, and you should also plan for potential biannual costs like the $32 business report fee.

But that’s not all.

Other expenses to consider include fees for a registered agent, securing a unique business name, and obtaining any necessary licenses or permits.

Ready to dive deeper into what it takes to form your LLC in Indiana?

How Much Does an LLC Cost in Indiana?

Starting an LLC in Indiana involves several costs beyond the initial filing fee. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• The filing fee for Articles of Organization is $95, the primary cost of officially forming an LLC in Indiana.
• Registered Agent Services: If you hire a registered agent, expect to pay between $100 and $300 per year for this service.
• LLC Name Reservation: For $11, you can reserve your desired business name to ensure it is available before you officially file.
• DBA (Doing Business As) Registration: If you plan to operate under a different name than your LLC, registering a DBA will cost you around $20.
• Certificate of Existence: You may need this certificate for various business activities, typically costing around $15.
• Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on your industry, you may need specific licenses or permits, which can vary in cost based on local and state requirements.
• Taxes: Indiana imposes various taxes on businesses, such as sales tax, employment tax, and state income tax, depending on your business’s activities.

Understanding all these costs upfront can help you better plan your budget and ensure a smooth start for your LLC in Indiana.

LLC Costs in Indiana (Formation Fees)

Below is a table detailing the main expenses you might encounter when forming an LLC in Indiana.

Indiana LLC Requirements	Cost
LLC Business Name	$0
Articles of Organization	$95
Operating Agreement (optional)	$0 (with Northwest)
EIN Number	$0 (free from IRS)
Indiana Annual Report	$32/biennially
LLC Name Reservation Fee (optional)	$11
Certificate of Existence (optional)	$15
Foreign LLC Registration (optional)	$125
Fictitious Name (DBA) (optional)	$20
Taxes	Varies
State Business License Fees	Varies
Registered Agent Services (optional)	$0-$125 (Northwest)
LLC Formation Services (optional)	$39
Total LLC Costs in Indiana	$145 – $480

Total Indiana LLC costs range from $145 to $480. If you do everything yourself and skip the optional extras, you might only spend around $145. However, if you decide to pay for additional services and requirements, your costs could go up to between $300 and $480.

To break it down, the first mandatory expense is the $95 fee for filing the Articles of Organization, which is essential for officially establishing your LLC. Additionally, you’ll need to budget for the Indiana Annual Report, which costs $32 and is due biennially. Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is free from the IRS, and securing an LLC business name costs $0.

Now, let’s discuss the optional costs.

An Operating Agreement is recommended but can be obtained at no cost using services like Northwest. You may also want a Certificate of Existence, which costs $15. If you plan to register a foreign LLC in Indiana, that incurs a fee of $125. If you wish to operate under a different name (DBA), you must pay an additional $20.

Regarding registered agent services, you can either act as your agent at no cost or hire a professional service, which typically ranges from $100 to $300.

Remember that taxes and state business license fees can vary based on business activities.

Indiana LLC Business Name Search Cost ($0)

When you start an LLC in Indiana, choosing a business name costs nothing. You can select a name that reflects your business without paying a fee for that choice.

Before finalizing your name, it’s important to check if it’s available. This step is crucial to avoid potential issues with other businesses.

You can search for the name on the Indiana Secretary of State’s website. This will help you confirm that your desired name is unique and not already in use.

It’s also good to know that your business name must meet certain requirements. For example, it should include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or similar phrases.

If you decide to reserve your name, there is a small fee. However, if you’re just starting, this is optional.

Remember, while the name is free, all other filing fees for forming your LLC still apply. Make sure to account for those costs when budgeting.

Indiana Articles of Organization ($95)

To start your LLC in Indiana, you must file the Articles of Organization. This document formally establishes your LLC with the state. The filing fee for this document is $95 if you choose to file online.

When you file the Articles of Organization, you’ll provide information like your LLC’s name, address, and the registered agent. The registered agent is the person or business that will receive legal documents for your LLC.

You can file the Articles of Organization online through the Indiana Secretary of State’s website. The Indiana LLC processing time depends on your filing method. Online filing takes one business day, while mail filing takes 2 to 3 weeks, including five business days and transit time.

Please double-check all your information before submission. Errors can delay the process and may require resubmitting the application.

Once your Articles of Organization are approved, your LLC is officially formed. You will receive confirmation from the state, allowing you to move forward with your business activities.

LLC Operating Agreement Cost in Indiana ($0 with Northwest)

An operating agreement is an important document when forming an LLC in Indiana. It outlines the management structure and operating procedures for your business. While many states require this agreement, Indiana does not mandate it. However, having one can prevent future conflicts among members.

The cost of creating an operating agreement can vary.

If you work with a service like Northwest Registered Agent, they often provide this document for free. This means you can get an essential document without any additional expenses.

Indiana Registered Agent Fee ($0-$300/year)

When forming your LLC in Indiana, you must designate a Registered Agent. This can be yourself or a professional service.

If you choose to act as your Registered Agent, there is no fee. You just need to provide your name and address. This free option gives you control over your LLC’s legal documents.

Hiring a professional Indiana registered agent service typically costs between $100 and $300 annually. These services help maintain privacy and ensure that legal documents are received promptly. For example, LegalZoom charges about $249 annually, and ZenBusiness offers services for around $199 annually.

Northwest Registered Agent stands out with a special offer. The first year is free if you use their services to form your LLC. After that, their renewal fee is $125 annually. This makes them a competitive choice compared to other providers.

If you prefer a professional service, you have various options ranging from cost-effective to premium. Knowing these costs can help you decide which path to take when setting up your LLC in Indiana.

EIN Cost in Indiana ($0 from the IRS website)

Getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in Indiana is free. You can obtain it directly from the IRS at no cost. This number is essential for businesses to manage taxes and hire employees.

You have a few options to apply for your EIN. You can apply online on the IRS website. The online process is quick and usually gives you your EIN right away.

You won’t need to pay any fees for your EIN application. This $0 cost makes it easy for business owners to start their LLCs without worrying about extra expenses.

Indiana Business Entity Report ($32/biennially)

In Indiana, maintaining your LLC requires filing a Business Entity Report every two years. This report is crucial for keeping your business in good standing.

The fee for the Business Entity Report is $32. You can pay this fee online or by mail. It’s important to file by the due date to avoid penalties.

You must file your first report two years after your business is formed. After that, reports are due every two years on your LLC’s formation anniversary.

To avoid late fees, make sure you submit your report before the end of the month in which your LLC was registered. If you miss this deadline, your business could lose its active status.

LLC Name Reservation Fee in Indiana ($11)

When starting an LLC in Indiana, you might want to reserve your business name first. This step can help ensure that another business does not take your name before you file your formation documents.

Indiana’s name reservation fee is $11. This fee is relatively low compared to other states, making it affordable for aspiring business owners.

You can apply to the Indiana Secretary of State to reserve your LLC name. You can do this online or via mail, but the online method is usually quicker.

It’s important to remember that reserving your name does not give you ownership rights. It holds the name for up to 120 days while you prepare your LLC formation documents. If you need more time, you’ll have to reapply and pay the fee again.

Fictitious Name/DBA Cost in Indiana ($20)

If you want to use a fictitious name for your business in Indiana, you need to file a DBA (Doing Business As). The cost of filing a DBA varies depending on the method of filing.

For most business entities like LLCs and corporations, the filing fee is $30 if you submit your application by mail or in person. If you prefer to do it online, the cost drops to $20. This makes online filing a more budget-friendly option.

When applying, make sure to check that your chosen name is available. The name you want cannot be the same or too similar to any existing business name in Indiana. You can quickly search the Indiana Secretary of State’s website to ensure your name is unique.

After ensuring availability, you can fill out the required form and submit it with the appropriate fee. This process is straightforward and essential for establishing your business identity in Indiana.

Indiana Certificate of Existence ($15)

A Certificate of Existence is often required when you form an LLC in Indiana. This document verifies that your LLC is recognized and compliant with state regulations.

Obtaining an Indiana Certificate of Existence is $15 if you request it online through the InBiz portal. If you apply by mail or in person, the fee is slightly higher at $30.

To order your Certificate of Existence, visit the Indiana Secretary of State website or the InBiz platform. Before making the request, make sure your LLC is in good standing to avoid any delays.

Indiana Foreign LLC Registration Fee ($125)

Register your business with the state to set up a foreign LLC in Indiana. This process allows an LLC formed in another state to operate legally in Indiana.

You must submit a Foreign Registration Statement to the Indiana Secretary of State to register. The filing fee for this registration is $125 if you file by mail.

The cost is slightly lower at $105 if you file online, and it’s often quicker to complete the online process. Ensure you have your original LLC’s information handy, as you’ll need it for the application.

Remember, if your LLC is not based in Indiana, you must provide documentation proving your business’s legitimacy from its home state. This might include a Certificate of Good Standing. Next, appoint a registered agent in Indiana to handle legal documents for your foreign LLC.

Paying the registration fee promptly will avoid delays in processing your application. State processing times can vary, so check the Indiana Secretary of State’s website for the most current information on timelines.

Indiana State Business License Fees (varies)

In Indiana, there isn’t a state-wide business license that all companies must obtain. However, you will need a Registered Retail Merchant Certificate if your LLC sells goods or tangible personal property. This certificate costs $25.

Indiana makes it convenient by automatically renewing your certificate 30 days before it expires, as long as you don’t have unpaid sales tax. You can apply for this certificate by mail or online through the INBiz portal.

You might need additional licenses or permits depending on your specific business type. For example, a specific tax license is necessary if you sell tires. If you operate a daycare, you’ll need a special license from the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.

Indiana LLC Taxes (varies)

You will encounter several tax obligations when you form an LLC in Indiana. These taxes can change based on your business type and activities. Here are the common taxes you may need to pay:

• Federal Taxes: Paid to the IRS based on your LLC’s income.
• State Income Tax: Indiana has a state tax rate that applies to your LLC’s earnings.
• Local Income Tax: You may face additional local taxes depending on your location.
• Business Taxes: These include taxes specific to your industry or business activities.
• Self-Employment Taxes: If you operate as a sole owner, you will pay self-employment taxes on your income.
• Sales Tax: This applies if you sell goods or services subject to sales tax.
• Payroll Tax: Required if your LLC has employees based on their wages.
• Property Tax: Applicable if your LLC owns real estate or other property.

Each business is unique, and the specific taxes you owe can vary widely. Your tax obligations will be influenced by factors such as the size of your company and the nature of your operations.

Indiana LLC reinstatement fee ($30)

If your Indiana LLC has been administratively dissolved, reinstating it requires a fee of $30.

You must also pay for any missed reports to get your LLC back in good standing. Each biennial business report costs around $32.

All these documents and the $30 fee must be submitted to the Indiana Secretary of State. To avoid delays, be sure to check that all forms are filled out correctly.

You can send your payment via check or money order. The check or money order should be sent to the Secretary of State and sent to the appropriate address.

Indiana LLC dissolution fee ($30)

If you decide to close your LLC in Indiana, you must pay a dissolution fee. The standard fee for dissolving your Limited Liability Company in Indiana is $30.

If you file your dissolution online, that fee drops to $20. However, remember there may be a small additional credit card fee when you file online.

You must file Articles of Dissolution with the Indiana Secretary of State to formally dissolve your LLC. This process is essential to ensure your business is officially closed and prevent future tax obligations.

If you have a registered agent, they can guide you through the dissolution process. It can be helpful to have assistance to ensure you complete everything correctly.

Indiana LLC Change of Registered Agent Fee ($0)

Changing your registered agent in Indiana is straightforward. The good news is that there is no fee for this change.

You may need to update your registered agent for various reasons. For example, your previous agent may have moved, or you may want to appoint a different person or service.

To change your registered agent, you’ll need to complete the “Change of Registered Agent” form, which can typically be found on the Indiana Secretary of State’s website.

After completing the form, you will submit it to the appropriate department. Since no fee is required, the process is easy and cost-effective.

Remember, it is important to keep your registered agent information up-to-date. Your registered agent serves as the point of contact for legal documents, and incorrect information could cause issues for your LLC.

What is the Cheapest Way to Start an Indiana LLC?

Starting an LLC in Indiana can be affordable if you choose the right methods. The primary cost is the filing fee for the Articles of Organization, which is $95 if you file online. This is a one-time payment.

Filing online is simple and quick. You can immediately access your LLC status without waiting for mail delivery.

You will also need to select a registered agent. This can be you or a trusted individual. Doing it this way avoids extra fees charged by service companies.

Another cost to consider is obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number). The IRS provides this for free, keeping expenses down.

While starting an LLC yourself is cheaper, it comes with challenges. You must ensure all forms are filled out correctly. Mistakes can delay your registration or incur extra costs.

The cheapest method is to file online and act as your registered agent. This lowers costs while allowing you to control your business setup. However, if you struggle with paperwork, you might need to consider hiring help, which can increase your expenses.

Should You Use an LLC Formation Service in Indiana?

When starting an LLC in Indiana, you might wonder if you should use a formation service. These services can simplify the process for you.

• Peace of Mind: Filing for an LLC involves complex paperwork. A professional service, like Northwest Registered Agent, ensures everything is done correctly, saving you from filing mistakes or missed deadlines.
• Compliance: Formation services help you stay compliant with state laws by tracking due dates for annual filings and other requirements. This keeps your business running smoothly and legally so you can focus on growth.
• Privacy Benefits: Using a formation service can help keep your name off public records as the contact person for the LLC, adding a layer of privacy and separating your personal information from your business.
• Access to Experts: Formation services often provide free access to LLC experts and attorneys. This support can be invaluable if you have questions or need legal advice, giving you professional help without the high costs of hiring someone outright.

Though using these services involves costs, many find the expense worthwhile for the convenience they offer. A formation service might be a good option if you prefer a simpler process and want to minimize risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an LLC cost per year in Indiana?

Maintaining an LLC in Indiana typically costs around $32 per year for the required biennial report fee. A registered agent service could also add between $100 to $300 annually. Other potential costs may include business licenses, permits, and taxes, depending on your business activities.

How much does it cost to reinstate an LLC in Indiana?

If your LLC’s status has been revoked, reinstating it costs $30. You may also need to pay any overdue fees and submit the necessary documentation to the Indiana Secretary of State.

How much does it cost to dissolve an LLC in Indiana?

You must file the Articles of Dissolution form to dissolve your LLC in Indiana. The fee for this filing is $30. It’s essential to settle debts and obligations before beginning the dissolution process.

Is Indiana a good state to form an LLC?

Indiana is considered a good state for forming an LLC due to its low filing fees and relatively simple process. The state has a favorable business environment, which can benefit new companies.

Do I need to hire an attorney to form an LLC in Indiana?

You are not required to hire an attorney to form an LLC in Indiana. You can handle the process yourself, as the online forms and instructions are available. However, an attorney can provide helpful advice if you have complex needs.

Should I hire an LLC formation service in Indiana?

Hiring an LLC formation service can make the process easier, especially for those unfamiliar with legal requirements. These services often ensure that all paperwork is correctly submitted and can offer additional support for a fee.

Are there penalties for paying my fees late in Indiana?

If you fail to pay your annual fees on time, your LLC could face penalties. Late fees can accumulate, and if not resolved, they may lead to the revocation of your LLC’s status.

What happens if I do not file my Indiana LLC annual report?

If you do not file your annual report for your LLC in Indiana, your company may be marked as inactive or revoked. This status can prevent you from conducting legal business and may require additional steps and fees to rectify.