We’ve put together a free step-by-step guide on how to set up an LLC in Georgia. We want you to have a clear idea of how to set up and manage an LLC for your state. We’ve tried to make sure you have the information you need right at your fingertips. Each step has instructions and links to the sites for you to fill out the forms in the correct order. So, let’s set up your Georgia LLC right now!
A few points to remember before setting up your LLC in Georgia
When you set up an LLC in Florida you’ll need a few things before you get started. This section will help you get your checklist in order.
A Unique Business Name
Every business in the state must be unique. You’ll need to search for a Georgia LLC name. Go to the Georgia Corporation Division: Business Search to make sure yours is not taken.
An LLC Designator
Once you’ve chosen a unique business name you’ll need to decide on your LLC designator. When you set up your LLC in Delaware. You can chose one of the ones below.
- LLC (most common)
- L.L.C.
- LC
- L.C.
- Limited Liability Co.
- Ltd. Liability Co.
- Ltd. Liability Company
- Limited Liability Company
Now that you have your unique business name, it’s time to register it with the state of Georgia. Let’s get down to business.
A Registered Agent
In most states, a registered agent is a person or a company that accepts “Service of Process” for your Georgia LLC. A registered agent will receive any subpoenas, notices, and other legal, and tax documents sent to your business by the Georgia Department of Revenue.
If you’re opening a business in Georgia but you aren’t a resident, you’ll need to get a registered agent in that state. The requirements for a registered agent are as follows:
An Individual:
- Must be 18 and be a resident of the state
- Must be authorized to do business in the state.
- Must have a physical street address located in Connecticut
A Company
- Must be authorized to do business in the state
If you meet the above criteria, you can be your own registered agent. Or you can set up a friend or family member to be your registered agent.
You can also hire a commercial Registered Agent. A company that provides their name and address to receive legal documents from the state.
Hot Tip
The nice part of using a company is that their address is used instead of yours. As the business address will be public knowledge. By using a registered agent, you can protect and secure your own address.
Step 1: Reserve Your Business Name
To set up an LLC in Georgia you need to reserve your business name. This way during the process no one can steal the name of your company.
You’ll need to reserve your name at the Georgia Secretary of State: Name Reservations or by mail.
Reservation requests online will take 7 business days for a response. While requests by mail will take 15 business days. Unless expedited for an additional cost.
Step 2: File Your Articles of Organization in Georgia
Setting up an LLC in Georgia is easy, especially for single-member LLCs. Just go directly to the Georgia Secretary of State: Start a Business.
There are three ways to register: Online, Paper Online, and by Mail. Follow the instructions here to complete your registration.
You can do the name reservation and the articles of organization registration at the same time. Easy peasy.
Once your filing is reviewed and approved, a Certificate of Organization will be issued for your LLC.
Processing Time and Fees: (All costs paid are non-refundable)
Register online: The filing fee is $100 and processed in 7 business days. If within 2 business days, pay an additional $100. If within the day, pay an additional $250.
Register paper online: The filing fee is $100 and processed in 10 – 14 business days. If within 2 business days, pay an additional $100. If within the day, pay an additional $250.
Register by mail: The filing fee is $100 and processed in 15 business days. If within 2 business days, pay an additional $100. If within the day, pay an additional $250. If within an hour, pay an additional cost of $1,000.
Step 3: Complete Your Georgia LLC Operating Agreement
An operating agreement is a key document used by LLCs and partnerships. It outlines the business’ financial and functional decisions including rules, regulations, and provisions. This describes how your LLC will operate internally. For more information on operating agreements, you can check out the Small Business Administration’s article on basic operating agreements.
Hot Tip
You are not required to file an Operating Agreement with your state. But it may be vital to have it, especially if there are multiple members of your LLC.
Step 4: Get Your Federal Tax ID Number (EIN)
Once your LLC has been approved it’s time to get your Federal Tax ID Number from the IRS.
Your EIN is the social security number of your business. Keep it well protected. You’ll use this number to open bank accounts, file tax documents, apply for loans, and many other uses. It also protects your social security number when doing business with other businesses like merchant accounts, 1099s received, etc.
To apply for your EIN you can go to IRS EIN/Tax ID Application. Make sure you pick the correct Business Entity Type.
Just a Note
You can only file online if you have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Taxpayer ID (ITIN). Otherwise, you’ll have to mail in the forms and wait for the response. If you don’t have an SSN, on Form SS-4, where it asks for your SSN, ITIN, or EIN (line 7b), write “Foreign”. Your EIN application will then be approved without the need for having an SSN.
Step 4: File your LLC Annual Report
Each Georgia LLC must file and pay an annual registration of $50 with the Georgia Secretary of State. You can file your annual registration online.
Remember that failure to submit an annual registration will result in your LLC dissolution. You will wait 5 years to reinstate your LLC from its effective date of dissolution. There is a non-fundable fee of $250 to reinstate your dissolved LLC.
Taxes, Permits, and Licensing in Connecticut
To do business in Georgia you will need to file tax returns, and hold permits and licenses required in your county or city.
Georgia LLC must apply for necessary business licenses and or permits. This depends a lot on the type of business and the location of your business.
Aside from business licenses and permits, all LLCs must also pay appropriate taxes and meet obligations with the Georgia Department of Revenue.
Never miss a deadline
Not sure which forms to file with the IRS and your State after you set up your new business?
Sign Up to Simply Tax Compliant. File the right forms and the right time to avoid penalties and interest.
Putting it All Together
Now that you can set up an LLC in Georgia online it shouldn’t take more than a day or two to get up and running. The Georgia Secretary of State’s website is very easy to navigate and following the five steps above will help you get your talents and ideas to market faster.
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