How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC?
Quick Answer
1–10 business days with standard online filing in most states. Expedited processing available for same-day or 24-hour approval in many states for an additional fee.
Duration by Type
Available in most states for $25–$500 extra
Most common option
2–6 weeks; slowest option
Step-by-Step Timeline
Same-day with expedited processing in many states
Free and instant online
Quick Answer
Forming an LLC takes 1–10 business days in most states when filing online with standard processing. Many states offer expedited processing for same-day or 24-hour approval at an additional cost. The actual filing takes about 15–30 minutes; the wait is for state approval of the Articles of Organization.
LLC Formation Timeline by Processing Speed
| Processing Type | Timeline | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Expedited / same-day | Same day–1 business day | Available in most states for $50–$500 extra |
| Standard online | 1–5 business days | Most states |
| Standard mail | 2–6 weeks | All states |
| Slow states (standard) | 5–10 business days | CA, NY, NJ, and a few others |
Step-by-Step: Forming an LLC
Step 1: Choose a Business Name (30 Minutes–1 Day)
Search the state's business entity database to confirm name availability. The name must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" and cannot be identical to an existing registered entity.
Step 2: Designate a Registered Agent (15 Minutes)
Every LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation to receive legal documents. This can be yourself, a trusted person, or a registered agent service ($50–$300/year).
Step 3: File Articles of Organization (15–30 Minutes)
File the formation document (called "Articles of Organization" in most states, "Certificate of Formation" in some) with the state's Secretary of State office.
| Information Required | Details |
|---|---|
| LLC name | Must include "LLC" designation |
| Registered agent | Name and physical address |
| Principal office address | Business address |
| Organizer information | Name of person filing |
| Management structure | Member-managed or manager-managed |
| Effective date | Immediate or future date |
Step 4: Receive State Approval (1–10 Business Days)
The state reviews and approves the filing. Online filings are processed faster than mailed paper forms.
Step 5: Post-Formation Tasks (1–7 Days)
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS (free, instant online)
- Draft an operating agreement
- Open a business bank account
- Register for state and local taxes if applicable
LLC Processing Times by State (Select States)
| State | Standard Processing | Expedited Processing | Filing Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 2–3 business days | Same day ($25) | $300 |
| California | 5–7 business days | Not available online | $70 |
| Florida | 2–3 business days | Same day ($100) | $125 |
| New York | 5–7 business days | 24 hours ($25) | $200 |
| Delaware | 3–5 weeks (standard) | Same day ($100) | $90 |
| Wyoming | 1–2 business days | Same day ($100) | $100 |
| Nevada | 1–2 business days | 1 hour ($500) | $75 |
| Ohio | Same day (online) | N/A | $99 |
| Illinois | 5–10 business days | Same day ($100) | $150 |
| Colorado | Immediate (online) | N/A | $50 |
Total Cost to Form an LLC
| Expense | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| State filing fee | $35–$500 |
| Expedited processing (optional) | $25–$500 |
| Registered agent service (optional) | $50–$300/year |
| Operating agreement (DIY or attorney) | $0–$1,500 |
| EIN from IRS | Free |
| Total (DIY, standard processing) | $35–$500 |
| Total (with attorney) | $500–$2,000+ |
Common Mistakes That Delay Formation
- Name conflict with an existing entity — always search first
- Missing required information on the Articles of Organization
- Using a P.O. Box for the registered agent (a physical address is required)
- Filing in the wrong state — most small businesses should file in their home state, not Delaware
- Forgetting post-formation steps like EIN, operating agreement, and business bank account
Estimated Cost
$35 – $500
State filing fee only; ranges from $35 (Colorado) to $500 (Massachusetts)