How to Start an LLC in Louisiana: Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated:byTRUiC Team

To form aLouisiana LLC,you'll need to file the Articles of Organization with the Louisiana Secretary of State, which costs $100. You can apply online, by mail, by fax, or in person.

Follow our step-by-stepHow to Start an LLC in Louisianaguide to get started today.

  1. Name Your Louisiana LLC
  2. Choose a Registered Agent
  3. File the Articles of Organization
  4. Create an Operating Agreement
  5. Get an EIN

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Learn more about LLCs and their benefits in our118bet金博宝 guide. To form an LLC in any state, visit ourHow to Set Up an LLCguide.

Louisiana State map icon with filing cost

Step 1: Name Your Louisiana LLC

Choosing a company name is the first and most important step of starting an LLC in Louisiana. Be sure to choose a name that complies with Louisiana naming requirements and is easily searchable by potential clients.

1. Follow the naming guidelines:

  • Your name must include the phrase “limited liability company” or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
  • 你的名字不能包含单词混淆your LLC with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
  • Restricted words (e.g. Bank, Attorney, University) may require additional paperwork and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC.

For a complete list of naming rules in Louisiana, you can read the State Legislature'snaming conventions.

2. Is the name available in Louisiana?Make sure the name you want isn't already taken by doing aname searchon the State of Louisiana website.

To learn more about searching for aLouisiana LLC name, read our full guide. Find name ideas using ourfree LLC name generator.

3. Are you registering your LLC online?If you are registering your LLC online, you'll need to reserve your name first. We will cover this topic in Step 3.

4.Is the URL available?We recommend that you check online to see if your business name is available as a网络域. Even if you don't plan to make a business website today, you may want to buy the URL in order to prevent others from acquiring it.

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Once you have verified your name is available, you may now select a professional service to complete the LLC formation process for you.

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FAQ: Naming a Louisiana LLC

What is an LLC?An orange arrow pointing down

LLC is short for “limited liability company.” It is a simple business structure that offers more flexibility than a traditional corporation while providing many of the same benefits. Read our118bet金博宝 guide for more information.

Or, watch our two-minute video:What is an LLC?

How do I name my Louisiana LLC?An orange arrow pointing down

You must follow the Louisiana LLC naming guidelines when choosing your LLC's business name:

  • Include the phrase "limited liability company" or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
  • Do not use words that could confuse your business with a government agency (FBI, State Department, CIA, etc.).
  • Receive the proper licensing when using the words such as lawyer or doctor.

If you are having trouble coming up with a name for your LLC, use ourLLC Name Generator. That will not only find a unique name for your business but an available URL to match.

After you get your business name, get a unique logo using ourFree Logo Generator.

Do I need to get a DBA or trade name for my business?An orange arrow pointing down

Most Louisiana LLCs do not need a DBA, known in the state as a trade name. The name of the LLC can serve as your company’s brand name and you can accept checks and other payments under that name as well. However, you may wish to register a DBA if you would like to conduct business under another name.

To learn more about DBAs in your state, read ourHow to File a DBAguide.

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent in Louisiana

You arerequiredto nominate aLouisiana registered agentfor your Louisiana LLC.

What is a registered agent?A registered agent is an individual or business entity responsible for receiving important legal documents on behalf of your business. Think of your registered agent as your business's point of contact with the state.

Who can be a registered agent?A registered agent must be a resident of Louisiana or a corporation, such as aregistered agent service, authorized to transact business in Louisiana. You may elect an individual within the company, including yourself.

Recommended:Check out thesebest registered agent services.

FAQ: Nominating a Registered Agent

Can I be my own registered agent?An orange arrow pointing down

Yes. You or anyone else in your company can serve as the registered agent for your LLC.

Read more aboutbeing your own registered agent.

Is a registered agent service worth it?An orange arrow pointing down

Using a professional registered agent service is an affordable way to manage government filings for your LLC. For most businesses, the advantages of using a professional service significantly outweigh the annual costs.

For more information, read our article onLouisiana registered agents.

Step 3: File the Louisiana LLC Articles of Organization

To register your Louisiana LLC, you'll need to fileForm 365: Articles of Organizationwith the Louisiana Secretary of State. You can apply online, by mail, by fax, or in person.

Now is a good time to determine whether your LLC will bemember-managed vs. manager-managed.

File the Articles of Organization

OPTION 1:File Online With Louisiana geauxBIZ

File Online

- OR -

OPTION 2:File by Mail, by Fax, or In Person

Download Form


Filing Fee:$100, payable to the Secretary of State (Nonrefundable)

Mailing Address:
State of Louisiana Secretary of State
P.O. Box 94125
Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Office Address:
8585 Archives Ave.
Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Fax:(225) 932-5314

For help with completing the form, visit ourLouisiana Articles of Organizationguide.

Louisiana LLC Formation Document

如果你扩大现有的有限责任公司of Louisiana, you will need to form aforeign LLC.

FAQ: Filing Louisiana LLC Documents

How long does it take to get an LLC in Louisiana?An orange arrow pointing down

Filing LLC formation documents in Louisiana typically takes two to three business days but can be expedited for an additional fee.

What is the difference between a domestic Louisiana LLC and foreign LLC?An orange arrow pointing down

An LLC is referred to as a "domestic LLC" when it conducts business in the state where it was formed. A foreign LLC must be formed when an existing LLC wishes to expand its business to another state.

Read ourWhat Is a Foreign LLCarticle to learn more.

How much does it cost to start a Louisiana LLC?An orange arrow pointing down

The cost to start a Louisiana LLC is $100.

To learn more, read our guide on thecost to form a Louisiana LLC.

Step 4: Create a Louisiana LLC Operating Agreement

An operating agreement is not required in Louisiana, but it's a good practice to have one.

What is an operating agreement?An operating agreement is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating procedures of an LLC.

Why are operating agreements important?A comprehensive operating agreement ensures that all business owners are on the same page and reduces the risk of future conflict.

For more information on operating agreements, read ourLouisiana LLC operating agreementguide.

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FAQ: Creating a Louisiana LLC Operating Agreement

Do I need to file my operating agreement with the state?An orange arrow pointing down

No. The operating agreement is an internal document that you should keep on file for future reference. However, many states do legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement in place.

Step 5: Get an EIN

You can get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for free. It is used to identify a business entity and keep track of a business’s tax reporting. It is essentially a Social Security number (SSN) for the company.

If you are filing your LLC online, getting an EIN is included in the registration process on geauxBIZ.gov.

Why do I need an EIN?An EIN number is required for the following:

  • To open abusiness bank accountfor the company
  • For federal and state tax purposes
  • 雇佣employees for the company

Where do I get an EIN?An EIN is obtained from the IRS (free of charge) by the business owner after forming the company. This can be done online or by mail.

FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS:Youdo not need an SSNto get an EIN.Learn more here.

Get an EIN

Option 1: Request an EIN from the IRS

Apply Online

- OR -

Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax

Download Form

Mail to:
Internal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999

Fax:(855) 641-6935

Fee:Free

FAQ: Getting an EIN

How do I get an EIN if I don’t have a Social Security number?An orange arrow pointing down

An SSN isnotrequired to get an EIN. You can simply fill outIRS Form SS-4and leave section 7b blank. Then call the IRS at (267) 941-1099 to complete your application.Learn more about applying as an international applicant.

Do I need an EIN for my LLC?An orange arrow pointing down

所有公司员工,或任何公司有超过one member, must have an EIN. This isrequiredby the IRS.

Learn why we recommendalwaysgetting an EIN and how to get one for free in ourDo I Need an EIN for an LLCguide.

What tax structure should I choose for my Louisiana LLC?An orange arrow pointing down

When you get an EIN, you will be informed of the differenttax classification optionsthat are available. Most LLCs elect the default tax status.

However, some LLCs can reduce their federal tax obligation by choosing theS corporation (S corp) status. To learn more, read ourLLC vs. S Corpguide.

Considering Using an LLC Formation Service?

We reviewed and ranked the top LLC formation services. Find out which is best for you.

BEST LLC SERVICES

How to Maintain Your LLC

File the Annual Report

Louisiana requires LLCs to file an annual report with the Louisiana Secretary of State. This can be submittedonline, along with the $30 fee, through the state's geauxBIZ filing portal.

Reports are due every year on or before the date on which the LLC was formed. Louisiana does not charge late fees if you miss your filing deadline but may dissolve or revoke your LLC after three years of failing to file an annual report.

Steps After LLC Formation

Read all the steps you’ll need to maintain your LLC’s personal liability protection, open a business bank account, get business insurance, and stay up to date with state reporting requirements.

Visit ourAfter Forming an LLCguide to learn more.

What is the corporate veil?An orange arrow pointing down

Business entities, such as LLCs and corporations, protect their owners from personal liabilities for the business’s debts. This protection is often referred to as the corporate veil. Learn how to protect your LLC's corporate veil in ourguide.

Keep Your Company Compliant

Louisiana LLC Business Licenses & Permits

To operate your LLC, you must comply with federal, state, and local government regulations. Fees and requirements for licenses and permits will vary depending on what sort of business license you need.

Find out how to get the necessary business licenses and permits for your LLC with our路易斯安那州的营业执照guide.

Recommended:Consider having a professional service research your business’s licensing requirements. Read ourbest business license servicesreview.

Louisiana LLC Tax Filing Requirements

In order to keep your business in good standing, it's important to stay up to date on yourLouisiana LLC taxes.

Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to register for one or more forms of tax.

Louisiana Sales Tax

If you are selling a physical product, you’ll typically need to register for aseller's permitthrough theLouisiana Department of Revenuewebsite.

Louisiana's state sales tax rate is 4.45%. Cities and/or counties are permitted to add an additional local sales tax of up to 7%.

Louisiana Employer Taxes

If you have employees in Louisiana, you will have to register forUnemployment Insurance Taxthrough the Louisiana Workforce Commission on behalf of your employees. Employers will also need to sign up forEmployee Withholding Taxthrough the Louisiana Department of Revenue.

Income Tax

State:
There are three tax brackets for Louisiana's individual income tax. Depending on your LLC’s income, your income tax rate could range from 1.85% to 4.25%.

State tax returns are due each year by May 15. To calculate your tax or determine your tax bracket, visit theLouisiana Department of Revenue website.

Federal:
You’ll also need to report your federal income tax using eitherForm 1065(multi-member LLC) orForm 1040 Schedule C(single-member LLC).

Hiring Employees in Louisiana

If you plan to hire employees, stay compliant with the law by following these steps:

Find out more from theLouisiana Workforce Commission.

Check out ourHiring for Your Small Business Guidefor resources like sample job descriptions, payroll service reviews, and more.

What is the minimum wage in Louisiana?An orange arrow pointing down

The minimum wage in Louisiana is $7.25 per hour.

How often do I need to pay employees?An orange arrow pointing down

Louisiana requires wages to be paid at least twice per month.

Louisiana Business Resources

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