Forming a Limited Liability Company in Arizona has several steps. These steps include:
- Pick a Name for Your LLC
The first thing you need to do when forming an LLC is to pick a distinguishable name. Arizona law states the name must contain the words Limited Liability Company, or one of its abbreviations (LLC, L.L.C., LC, and L.C.). You can check name availability by searching the Arizona Corporation Commission business name database.
- File Articles of Organization
Once you have a name for your LLC, you must then file Articles of Organization with the Arizona Corporation Commission; this requires is a $50 filing fee. The articles of organization will include your LLC’s name, address, and duration. You’ll also need to give the names and addresses of your LLC’s managers or members as well as the name, address, and signature of the LLC’s registered agent. If your form is rejected, you will be instructed on how resubmit your paperwork.
- Appoint a Registered Agent
An agent for service of process is an individual or business that agrees to accept legal papers in the event that your LLC is sued.
- Publication Requirements
After the Arizona Corporation Commission approves your LLC’s Articles of Organization, you have 60 days to publish the Articles in a newspaper of general circulation in the appropriate Arizona County for three consecutive publications. You can find a list of approved newspapers on the Arizona Corporation Commission website.
- Arizona Tax and Regulatory Requirements
If your LLC has more than one member, you need to obtain an IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN). If the LLC has only one member you need an EIN if you want to be taxed as a corporation instead of a sole proprietorship. You can apply for an EIN online by visiting the IRS website.
- Business Bank Account
Open a business bank account with your bank or credit union.
Forming a Limited Liability Company involves a lot of time and paperwork. If you have questions about forming an LLC in Arizona, or if you would like to appoint an experienced Phoenix small business lawyer to be your registered agent, look to the law firm of JacksonWhite. Retaining an attorney to assist you through the formation process will save you hours of stressful work, and will ensure that your forms are submitted correctly.
Call JacksonWhite’s Small Business Law Team at (480) 464-1111 to discuss your case today.