How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC?
Last Updated: By TRUiC Team
Starting a business is an exciting new chapter in your life, and long processing times to form your limited liability company (LLC) can be a major drawback as an aspiring entrepreneur. While the exact time it can take to process LLC formation documents vary depending on several factors, including location, there are certain ways to speed up the process to get your business up and running in no time.
If you’re looking for the fastest state to form an LLC, as well as tips to speed up the formation process, you’re in the right place.
Start an LLC by using our free How to Form an LLC guide or have a professional service form an LLC for you.
How Fast Can I Form an LLC?
If you’re ready to get started launching your startup, processing times can be a frustrating obstacle. LLC filing times vary by state, with processing times ranging from a few business days up to multiple weeks. However, depending on the state you’re located in, you may be able to expedite your filing for an extra fee — sometimes making it possible to have your LLC filing processed within the hour. Here are the states with the fastest processing time to form an LLC:
Quickest States to Form an LLC
Delaware
Standard processing time in Delaware for an LLC filing can be up to two weeks. However, unlike many other states, Delaware offers the option to expedite your filing for an additional fee.
- One Hour Service – $1,000
- Two Hour Service – $500
- Same Day Service – ranges from $100 to $200 for filings.
- Next Day Service – $50 to $100 for filings
Learn more about how to form an LLC in Delaware by reading our step-by-step guide.
Nevada
Filings made through Nevada’s SilverFlume online portal are typically processed between one and two business days with no additional fee. However, if you choose to submit your formation documents via mail, it can take up to two weeks in processing time.
Learn more about how to form an LLC in Nevada by reading our step-by-step guide.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts also boasts a fast filing turnaround time through the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth website with a post-payment processing time of only four hours. Additionally, filings done by mail are typically processed in four to five business days.
Learn more about how to form an LLC in Massachusetts by reading our step-by-step guide.
New Jersey
Processing times for LLC filings in New Jersey typically take between one and three business days. However, the state of New Jersey allows you to expedite your filing’s processing for an additional fee to allow for same-day processing of your formation documents.
Learn more about how to form an LLC in New Jersey by reading our step-by-step guide.
Tips to Start an LLC Faster
Whether you’re in a state that offers expedited processing or not, there are ways to speed up the time it takes to form your LLC. In most cases, this includes being prepared, organized, and thorough. Here are some ways to start an LLC faster:
- Double-check that your formation documents are complete and filed correctly. This is one of the most common hang-ups entrepreneurs face while forming their LLC. Ensuring you meet all requirements before filing your formation documents increases your chances of a quick and easy filing process.
- Use an LLC filing service. LLC filing services ensure that your formation documents are complete, accurate, and meet all requirements set forth by the state you’re located in, which will decrease processing time.
- Submit your filing online. If your state offers an online filing option, this can cut your processing time drastically compared to mail-in or in-person filing options.
How to Form an LLC
You can start an LLC on your own by following our simple, step-by-step guide:
- Select Your State
- Name Your LLC
- Choose a Registered Agent
- File LLC Formation Documents
- Create an LLC Operating Agreement
- Get an EIN
You can also have a professional service form an LLC for you. Read our review of the best LLC formation services.
LLC FAQ
What is an LLC?
A limited liability company (LLC) is a formal legal business structure. Compared to corporations, LLCs are both the easiest business structure to form as well as maintain without sacrificing tax benefits, management flexibility, and personal asset protection.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of an LLC?
Unlike informal business structures such as sole proprietorships or partnerships, forming as an LLC grants your business certain tax benefits as well as personal liability protection — meaning you won’t be personally liable for your business’s debts or in the event that your business is sued.
Alternatively, startups that expect rapid growth and plan to take on investors, such as venture capitalists and angel investors, may not benefit from forming an LLC and may choose instead to start a corporation.
How much does it cost to form an LLC?
The cost to form an LLC varies depending on the state you’re located in. However, you can generally expect to pay between $50 and $500 to form your LLC and $100 each year to maintain it.
How long does it take to form an LLC?
The standard processing time to form an LLC once your formation documents are received is between two and three weeks. However, some states offer same-day or expedited processing for an extra fee.
How do I change from a sole proprietor to an LLC?
You can change from a sole proprietor to an LLC in five easy steps:
- Name your LLC.
- Choose a registered agent.
- File LLC Articles of Organization.
- Create an LLC operating agreement.
- Get an EIN.
