Indiana embraces its small businesses and entrepreneurial spirit. Small businesses account for 99.4% of all enterprises in the state. If you’re considering forming an LLC in Indiana, our guide will help you navigate the process smoothly.
Step 1: Name your Indiana LLC
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
Step 3: File an Articles of Organization
Step 4: Received a Certificate From the State
Step 5: Obtain an Operating Agreement
Step 6: Get an Employer Identification Number
Step 1: Name your Indiana LLC
When starting a business in Indiana, you must select a name for your articles that complies with state naming requirements. Here are the key points to remember:
- Your business name must include “limited liability company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
- Check the Secretary of State’s website to ensure your chosen name is distinct from existing businesses in the state.
- Avoid using terms associated with government agencies (e.g., State Department, CIA, FBI, Treasury, etc.) in your business name.
- Certain restricted words ( like bank, lawyer, attorney, and credit union ) might require additional documentation and licensure paperwork.
Additional considerations:
Reserve your name: If you’ve found the ideal name for your LLC, you can reserve it for 120 days for a fee of $10 until you’re ready to complete the required documents.
Website domain: Even if a webpage isn’t an immediate priority, securing a domain name is essential for future use. Before settling on your LLC name, ensure the corresponding URL is available.
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
In Indiana, it’s mandatory to designate a registered agent for your LLC. This individual or entity is authorized to accept service of process and legal documents and notices on behalf of your LLC.
Your registered agent can be a person (including yourself or an employee of your LLC). They must adhere to the following criteria:
- Entities (or companies) must offer registered agent services.
- The agent must maintain an address within Indiana.
- They must be present and available to accept documents during standard business operations.
Step 3: File an Articles of Organization
The Articles of Organization is an essential document for establishing your Indiana LLC, and it must include the following:
- Your LLC’s name
- The street address of your LLC’s registered office and the name of the registered agent at that office
- The duration of your LLC
- Designated managers
- The operating agreement lists other matters agreed upon by the members.
To file, submit the completed form online for $95 or by mail with a $100 check payable to the Secretary of State at
302 West Washington St, Room E018, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Step 4: Received a Certificate From the State
Upon approval of the LLC’s formation documents, the state will provide a certificate confirming its formal existence. This certificate enables the LLC to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), secure business licenses, and open a bank account.
Step 5: Obtain an Operating Agreement
While not legally required in Indiana, creating an LLC operating agreement is highly advisable for all new limited liability companies.
This agreement should:
- Define the LLC’s business structure
- Specify the responsibilities and obligations of each member
- Outline the operational procedures of the LLC
- Designate the registered agent
- Determine the management structure
LLC may encounter legal and operational challenges without an operating agreement.
Step 6: Get an Employer Identification Number
All newly formed LLCs in the United States must get an Employer Identification Number from the IRS. This unique nine-digit EIN is crucial for various business functions, including tax filing and opening bank accounts.
You can obtain an EIN online without any filing fee.
Follow these steps to set up your LLC in Tennessee and start running your business.
LLC State Guides
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FAQs:
How can I register my Indiana LLC in a different state?
Contact the Secretary of State to register as a foreign LLC and operate your LLC in another state. They might request a certificate of good standing to ensure compliance with filing and tax requirements. Submit an application using your Indiana LLC name in the new state and pay the required registration fee.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Indiana?
The cost of starting an LLC in Indiana is primarily the filing fee with the Secretary of State, which is $100 if filed by mail or in person and $98 if filed online.
Additionally, you must pay $50 (or $32 online) to file your Business Entity Report every other year.
Do Indiana LLCs expire?
No, Indiana LLCs do not expire. However, if you fail to meet the requirements, the state of Indiana can dissolve Indiana LLCs. To avoid dissolution by the of Indiana, file a biennial report within 120 days.
How long does it usually take to start an LLC in Indiana?
Starting an LLC in Indiana takes around 4 to 6 weeks. The cost includes a $100 filing fee with the Secretary of State and a $50 biennial report fee (or $32 online).
