How to Start an LLC in New Hampshire: Step-by-Step Guide
Last Updated:byTRUiC Team
To start aNew Hampshire LLC, you'll need to file your Certificate of Formation with the State of New Hampshire, which costs $100. You can apply by mail or online.
Follow our step-by-stepHow to Start an LLC in New Hampshireguide to get started today.
- 1.Name Your New Hampshire LLC
- 2.Choose a Registered Agent
- 3.File the Certificate of Formation
- 4.Create an Operating Agreement
- 5.Get an EIN
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.
Step 1: Name Your New Hampshire LLC
Choosing a company name is the first and most important step in forming a New Hampshire LLC. Be sure to choose a business name that complies with New Hampshire naming laws and requirements and is easily searchable by potential clients.
1. Follow the naming guidelines for a New Hampshire:
- Your name must include the phrase “limited liability company” or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
- Your name cannot include words that could confuse your LLC with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
- Restricted words (e.g. Bank, Attorney, University) may require additional legal paperwork and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC.
2.这个名字在新罕布什尔州有空吗?Make sure the business name you want isn't already taken by doing abusiness searchonline through New Hampshire’s QuickStart website.
To learn more aboutsearching for a New Hampshire LLC name, read our full guide. Find name ideas using our free LLCname generator．
3. Is the URL available?We recommend that you check to see if your business name is available as a网络域．Even if you don't plan to create a business website today, you may want to buy the URL in order to prevent others from acquiring it.
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 New Hampshire LLC
What is an LLC?
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 New Hampshire LLC?
You must follow the New Hampshire LLC naming guidelines when choosing a name for your LLC:
- 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．这不仅会为你找到一个唯一的名称usiness 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?
Most LLCs do not need a trade name in New Hampshire, also known as a DBA. 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 New Hampshire
你是requiredto appoint and maintain aNew Hampshire registered agentfor your New Hampshire LLC.
What is a registered agent?A registered agent is an individual or business entity responsible for receiving important tax forms, legal documents, notice of lawsuits, and official government correspondence 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 New Hampshire or a corporation, such as aregistered agent service, authorized to conduct business in the state of New Hampshire. 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?
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?
Using a professional registered agent service is an affordable way to manage government filings for your LLC. For most businesses, the advantages of hiring a professional registered agent service significantly outweigh the annual costs.
For more information, read our article onNew Hampshire registered agents．
Step 3: File the New Hampshire LLC Certificate of Formation
To register your New Hampshire LLC, you will need to file theCertificate of Formationwith the New Hampshire Department of State. You can apply online with the NH QuickStart website or by mail.
Now is a good time to determine whether your LLC will bemember-managed vs. manager-managed．
You'll also need to know yourNAICS code(New Hampshire requires it).
File the Certificate of Formation
OPTION 1:File Online With NH QuickStart
- OR -
OPTION 2:File by Mail
Fee:$100, payable to the "State of New Hampshire."
Mailing Address:
Corporation Division, NH Dept. of State
107 N. Main St., Rm. 204
Concord, NH 03301
For help with completing the form, visit ourNew Hampshire Certificate of Formationguide.
If you’re expanding your existing LLC to the state of New Hampshire, you will need to form aforeign LLC．
New Hampshire NAICS Requirement
The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) consists of six-digit codes given to a business depending on the type of trade it engages in. When filing the New Hampshire LLC formation documents, you are required to include your NAICS code.
You can look up the NAICS code for your type of business by using ourNAICS Code Lookup Tool．
FAQ: Filing New Hampshire LLC Documents
What is the processing time to form my New Hampshire LLC?
The state takes 7 to 10 business days to process mail-in formation filings.
What is the difference between a domestic New Hampshire LLC and foreign LLC?
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 New Hampshire LLC?
The cost to start a New Hampshire LLC is $100.
To learn more, read our guide on thecost to form a New Hampshire LLC．
Step 4: Create a New Hampshire LLC Operating Agreement
An operating agreement is not required for a New Hampshire LLC, 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 ourNew Hampshire LLC operating agreementguide.
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FAQ: Creating a New Hampshire LLC Operating Agreement
Do I need to file my operating agreement with the state?
No. The New Hampshire LLC 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 for Your New Hampshire LLC
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.
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
- 为公司雇佣员工
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
- OR -
Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax
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 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 EIN application.Learn more about applying as an international applicant．
Do I need an EIN for my LLC?
All LLCs with employees, or any LLC with more than one member, must have an EIN. This is required by the IRS.
Learn why we recommend always getting 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 New Hampshire LLC?
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.
How to Maintain Your LLC
File Business Taxes
业务Profits Tax
Most states classify LLCs as pass-through entities not subject to business income taxation. LLC members directly receive their share of the company’s profits and then pay state income tax on their individual earnings.
然而,新罕布什尔州,能源部s not require LLC members to pay income tax on their income from their company’s revenue. Instead, New Hampshire levies a flat 7.6% Business Profits Tax (BPT) tax on LLCs with gross receipts over $92,000. This tax is due on the 15th day of the third month following the close of the tax year.
You can register for and pay the BPTonlineorby mail．
业务Enterprise Tax
In addition to the Business Profits Tax, New Hampshire businesses must also file a return for the业务Enterprise Tax(BET) eitheronlineorby mail．This flat-rate tax is on "the sum of all compensation paid or accrued, interest paid or accrued, and dividends paid by the business enterprise, after special adjustments and apportionment."
Even if your LLC does not meet the filing threshold, you must file aBET summary return．
File the Annual Report
New Hampshire requires LLCs to file an annual report with the New Hampshire Department of State. This can be submittedonlinealong with the $100 filing fee.
Annual reports are due by April 1 each year. New Hampshire charges a $50 penalty if you miss the April 1 filing deadline. After two years, New Hampshire dissolves LLCs that have not filed an annual report. LLCs cannot file a new annual report if the prior year’s report was not filed.
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?
业务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
New Hampshire 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 ourNew Hampshire Business Licenseguide.
Recommended:Consider having a professional service research your business’s licensing requirements. Read ourbest business license servicesreview.
New Hampshire LLC Tax Filing Requirements
In order to keep your business in good standing, it's important to stay up to date on yourNew Hampshire LLC taxes．
求进步ding on the nature of your business, you may be required to register for one or more forms of state tax:
New Hampshire Sales Tax
New Hampshire is one of five states that does not impose a sales tax.
New Hampshire Employer Taxes
If you have employees in New Hampshire, you will have to register forUnemployment Insurance Taxon the New Hampshire State website.
Income Tax
State
New Hampshire does not have an individual income tax on wages and salaries. However, interest and dividends have a flat-rate 5% tax.
For more information, visit theNew Hampshire 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).
What is the New Hampshire Business Profits Tax?
The Business Profits Tax is levied on each LLC formed in New Hampshire, which varies depending upon your LLC’s income.
How is the New Hampshire Business Profits Tax assessed?
Organizations with gross receipts in New Hampshire totaling $50,000 or more are assessed a 7.9% Business Profits Tax.
How is the New Hampshire Business Enterprise Tax calculated?
The Business Enterprise Tax rate varies, and thresholds change based on inflation every two years. See theNew Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration websitefor the latest filing thresholds and tax rates.
Hiring Employees in New Hampshire
If you plan to hire employees for your business, stay compliant with the law by following these steps:
- Verify that new employees areable to work in the US
- Report employeesas "new hires" to the state
- Provideworkers' compensationinsurance for employees
- Withhold employee taxes
- Printworkplace compliance postersand place them in visible areas of your workspace
Find out more information from theNew Hampshire Employment Securitywebsite.
Check out ourHiring for Your Small Business Guidefor resources like sample job descriptions, payroll service reviews, and more.
What is the minimum wage in New Hampshire?
The minimum wage in New Hampshire is $7.25 per hour.
How often do I need to pay employees?
New Hampshire requires wages to be paid weekly unless a request to pay less frequently is approved by the New Hampshire Department of Labor.