We’ve put together a free step-by-step guide on how to set up an LLC in New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire LLC right now!
A few points to remember before setting up your LLC in New Hampshire
When you set up an LLC in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire LLC name. Go to New Hampshire 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)
- Limited Liability Company
Now that you have your unique business name, it’s time to register it with the state of New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire LLC. A registered agent will receive any subpoenas, notices, and other legal, and tax documents sent to your business by the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.
If you’re opening a business in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire
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: Register Your Business Name
To set up an LLC in New Hampshire 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 online at the Start your Business with New Hampshire. Or you can download and fill out the Application for Reservation of Name form and send it by mail.
Your name reservation will be up for 120 days and the filing fee is $15.
Step 2: File Your Certificate of Formation in New Hampshire
Setting up an LLC in New Hampshire is easy, especially for single-member LLCs. Just go and sign up to Welcome to NH Quickstart.
You can just directly file the Certificate of Formation even without a reservation. Easy peasy.
If you don’t want to file online, you can download and print out the Certificate of Formation form.
Fees: In New Hampshire, the cost of setting up your LLC and filing the Certificate of Formation depends on the method you use. The online filing fee is $102 within 3 to 7 business days of approval. The postal mail filing fee is 100 with 1 to 3 weeks of approval. The walk-in filing fee is $125 with 15 minutes to 2 hours of approval.
Step 3: Complete Your New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire 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.
Quick 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 5: File Your LLC Annual Report
Your New Hampshire LLC is required to file an annual report. To file the annual report, go to Welcome to NH Quickstart. You can file it directly online (processed instantly) or print it out and send it by mail (processed within 1-3 weeks).
The annual report fee is $100 and is due between January 1st and April 1st. Filing beyond that will result in a penalty of $50. Failure to file in two consecutive years will dissolve your business.
Taxes, Permits, and Licensing in New Hampshire
To do business in New Hampshire you will need to file tax returns, and hold permits and licenses in your county or city.
New Hampshire LLC must apply for the 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 New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration.
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 New Hampshire online it shouldn’t take more than an hour or two to get up and running. The New Hampshire 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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