Forming an LLC in Georgia
Forming an LLC in Georgia in 7 easy steps
- The firs step is to give your LLC a name. The name must be unique, i.e. you can not pick a name that is already used by another LLC. You must also refrain from violating any trademark. In addition to this, the name must contain an LLC identifier, such as “Ltd Liability Co” or “LLC”. When forming an LLC in Georgia the name must be no longer than 80 characters, including spaces and punctuation, and you are not allowed to use a name that contains anything that the Secretary of State finds obscene. You have to obtain written permission or verification if you wish to use the words “College”, “Insurance”, “Little League”, “Little Leaguer”, “Lottery”, “Medicaid”, “Olympic”, “Post Office”, “Postal Service” “Realtor”, “Trust” or “University” in your company name.
- Georgia state law does not require you to hire an attorney to form an LLC. A vague or otherwise flawed Operating Agreement can however lead to serious problems with the IRS in the future, and it can therefore be advisable to let an attorney check your Operating Agreement before you proceed.
- During step three, you will visit the Georgia State filing office and file the Articles of Organization. When forming an LLC in Georgia, the minimum LLC state filing fee is $100.00. (For 30 business days.)
- Once the Articles of Organization have been filed, it is time for you to invite all the members (owners) of the LLC to an Organizational Meeting where you adopt the Operating Agreement.
- When you have gotten this far, it is possible for your LLC to obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN).
- Open up a company bank account.
- Apply for a business license and any required permits from each city or county where you will be conducting business.
Maintaining an LLC in Georgia
According to Georgia state law, all LLC’s must hand in a report each year and pay a report fee of $30. The annual report must be handed in between January 1st and April 1st.
