We’ve put together a free step-by-step guide on how to set up an LLC in Washington. 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 Washington LLC right now!
A few points to remember before setting up your LLC in Washington
When you set up an LLC in Washington, 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 Washington LLC name. Go to Advanced 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 Co.
- Limited Liability Company
Now that you have your unique business name, it’s time to register it with the state of Washington. 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 Washington LLC. A registered agent will receive any subpoenas, notices, and other legal, and tax documents sent to your business by the Washington Department of Revenue.
If you’re opening a business in Washington 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 Washington
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 Washington 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 by mail. You can print out the Name Reservation form and send it to the Secretary of State’s Office.
Your name reservation will be for up to 180 days and the filing fee is $30 but only $20 for nonprofits.
Step 2: File Your Certificate of Formation in Washington
Setting up an LLC in Washington is easy, especially for single-member LLCs. Just go and sign up for the Washington Corporations and Charities Filing System. Or you can go here.
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 fill out the Certificate of Formation form and send it to the Secretary of State’s Office.
Fees: In Washington, the cost of setting up your LLC and filing the Certificate of Formation is $200 for online filing and $180 for mail filing. It takes 2-3 business days to be processed.
Hot Tip
File your Washington LLC Initial Report along with the Certificate of Formation to save additional fees.
Step 3: Complete Your Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington LLC Annual Report
Your Washington LLC is required to file an annual report to keep your business compliant and in good standing. To file the annual report online, go to Washington Corporations and Charities Filing System.
If you want to file it by mail, download and fill out the Annual Report form and send it to the Secretary of State’s office.
Fees: The filing fee is $60. Late filing will result in a $25 penalty. And failure to file may dissolve your business.
Taxes, Permits, and Licensing in Washington
To do business in Washington you will need to file tax returns, and hold permits and licenses in your county or city.
Washington 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 Washington Department of Revenue.
Never miss a deadline
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Putting it All Together
Now that you can set up an LLC in Washington online it shouldn’t take more than an hour or two to get up and running. The Washington 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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