How To Open An LLC In Washington

How to Open an LLC in Washington

A limited liability company (LLC) is a business structure that offers the limited liability of a corporation and the flexibility of a partnership. In Washington, LLCs are formed by filing a Certificate of Formation with the Secretary of State.

This can be done yourself by visiting the Washington Secretary of State website by following the LINK and following the steps listed below. You can also Start a business in Washington by reaching out to our Business Formation Specialists at BusinessRocket for assistance. The team at Business Rocket has the knowledge and experience to file the documents on your behalf so you get the most benefits from whatever business structure you select.

Step 1: Choose a Name

Your LLC name must be unique in Washington. You can search for available names using the Secretary of State’s website. Once you’ve chosen a name, you can reserve it for 60 days by filing a Name Reservation Request.

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

A registered agent is a person or business that is responsible for receiving legal notices on behalf of your LLC. You must have a registered agent in Washington, even if you live out of state.

Step 3: File a Certificate of Formation

The Certificate of Formation is the document that officially forms your LLC. You can file it online or by mail. The filing fee is $200.

Step 4: Get an EIN

An EIN is a tax identification number that is required for all businesses. You can apply for an EIN online or by mail. The application is free.

Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement

An Operating Agreement is a document that outlines the rules and regulations of your LLC. It is not required by law, but it is strongly recommended.

Step 6: Get a Business License

If you will be hiring employees or selling products or services, you will need to obtain a business license from your city or county. The application process and fees vary depending on the jurisdiction.

Benefits of Forming an LLC in Washington

There are many benefits to forming an LLC in Washington, including:

Limited liability: As an LLC member, your personal assets are protected from business debts and liabilities.
Flexibility: LLCs are more flexible than corporations and partnerships, which gives you more control over how your business is run.
Tax benefits: LLCs can choose to be taxed as a corporation or as a partnership. This gives you more flexibility in managing your taxes.

How To Open An LLC in Other States:

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Conclusion

Forming an LLC is a simple and relatively inexpensive process. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily form an LLC in Washington and start enjoying the benefits of this business structure.

Call to Action

If you are ready to start your own business, we recommend that you consult with an attorney or business advisor to help you choose the right business structure for your needs. You can also find more information about forming an LLC in Washington on the Secretary of State’s website.