We’ve put together a free step-by-step guide on how to set up an LLC in Indiana. 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 Indiana LLC right now!
A few points to remember before setting up your LLC in Virginia
When you set up an LLC in Indiana 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 an Indiana LLC name. Go to InBiz: Business Search to make sure yours is not taken.
An LLC Designator
You must have an LLC designator in your name in one of the following formats.
- LLC (most common)
- L.L.C.
- Limited Liability Company
Now that you have your unique business name, it’s time to register it with the state of Indiana. 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 Virginia LLC. A registered agent will receive any subpoenas, notices, and other legal, and tax documents sent to your business by the Virginia Department of Taxation.
If you’re opening a business in Virginia 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 Indiana you need to reserve your business name. This way during the process no one can steal the name of your company.
Paper form or mail reservation is not available in Indiana. You’ll need to reserve your name online by creating an account at the InBiz: Access Indiana Portal. Click on “Secretary of State Business Service Division” then choose “Name Reservation”. Follow the instructions on-screen to finish your reservation.
Your reservation is only for up to 120 days. The fee for reserving your business name is $10.00. You can renew or extend your reservation by paying another $10.
Step 2: File Your Articles of Organization in Indiana
Setting up an LLC in Indiana is easy, especially for single-member LLCs. Just login directly to InBiz: Access Indiana Portal.
You can do the name reservation and the Articles of Organization at the same time. Easy peasy.
If you don’t want to file online, you can download and fill out Form 49459, Articles of Organization.
Fees: In Indiana, the cost of setting up your LLC and filing the Articles of Organization is $95.00 online and $100 by mail. It takes 24 hours or less to get approval back for online filing. While it takes 5 to 7 business days for mail filing.
Step 3: Complete Your Indiana 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.
Taxes, Permits, and Licensing in Illinois
To do business in Indiana you will need to file tax returns, and hold permits and licenses in your county or city.
Your Indiana LLC is required to file a business entity report every two years. To file online, log in to the InBiz: Access Indiana Portal, fee for online filing is $31.
If you want to file by mail, go to Indiana Secretary of State: Business Forms to download the form. The fee for mail filing is $50.
Indiana 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 Indiana Department of Revenue.
Never miss a deadline
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Putting it All Together
Now that you can set up an LLC in Indiana online it shouldn’t take more than a day or two to get up and running. The Indiana 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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