Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Articles of Organization

Filing the Articles of Organization is a crucial step in forming your LLC. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring accuracy and compliance with state requirements.

What Are Articles of Organization?

The Articles of Organization is the official document used to form an LLC. By filing this document with the appropriate state agency, your business becomes a recognized legal entity. It contains essential details about your LLC, such as its name, address, and registered agent information.

Steps to File Articles of Organization

1. Choose a Unique Business Name

• Ensure your LLC name complies with your state’s naming rules.
• The name must include an approved designation like “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.”
• Conduct a name search to confirm its availability.

2. Designate a Registered Agent

• A registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of your LLC.
• This can be an individual or a professional service authorized in the state.

3. Provide Your Principal Office Address

• Include the primary business address for your LLC.
• This address will be used for official state correspondence.

4. Prepare Additional Information

• Some states may require the purpose of your LLC or the names of its members/managers.
• Be ready to include any state-specific details.

5. File with the Appropriate State Agency

• Submit your Articles of Organization to the correct state agency (usually the Secretary of State).
• Many states offer online filing, though paper forms are also available.

6. Pay the Filing Fee

• Filing fees vary by state, ranging from $50 to $500. Ensure you include payment with your submission.

7. Receive Confirmation

• Once your Articles are approved, you’ll receive a confirmation from the state.
• Keep this document in your business records.

Example: Filing Articles of Organization in Wyoming

Wyoming is one of the most business-friendly states for LLC formation. Here’s how to file your Articles of Organization in Wyoming:

1. Check Your Business Name

• Verify your LLC name is unique using the Wyoming Secretary of State’s name search tool.
• Reserve the name if necessary (optional).

2. Appoint a Registered Agent

• Wyoming requires your LLC to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state.
• You can use a professional registered agent service or designate yourself if you meet the requirements.

3. Complete the Articles of Organization Form

• Fill out the form online or download a paper version from the Wyoming Secretary of State website.
• Include:
  • LLC name and designation (e.g., LLC or Limited Liability Company).
  • Registered agent name and address.
  • Organizer information.

4. Submit Your Filing

• Online Filing: Visit the Wyoming Secretary of State website and complete the process electronically.
• Mail: Send the completed form and payment to:
  Secretary of State
  Business Division
  2020 Carey Avenue, Suite 700
  Cheyenne, WY 82002

5. Pay the $100 Filing Fee

• Wyoming’s filing fee for LLC formation is $100, payable online or by check if mailing the form.

6. Receive Confirmation

• Once approved, you’ll receive a stamped copy of your Articles of Organization and your official LLC formation certificate.

This is where hiring a Registered Agent service can make all the difference:

• Expertise: Registered agents are experienced in handling state filings and can ensure your documents are error-free.
• Time-Saving: They take care of the paperwork, so you can focus on growing your business.
• Compliance Assurance: A professional service ensures your LLC stays compliant with state requirements, avoiding costly penalties.

Many Registered Agent services offer affordable packages, starting as low as $99 per year, and can handle both the filing of your Articles of Organization and ongoing compliance tasks. If you want to streamline the process and gain peace of mind, hiring a Registered Agent is a smart investment.

Our Top Recommendations for Registered Agents

To help you choose the best service, check out our detailed comparison of the best registered agents. This guide highlights top-rated providers based on pricing, services, and customer feedback.

Key Takeaways

Filing your Articles of Organization is the first formal step in forming your LLC. While you can do it yourself, hiring a Registered Agent can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure compliance with state laws.