Legal Bueno

    How to Start Your LLC in Georgia

    Legal Bueno helps with everything you need to start your business. We take care of all the paperwork so you don't have to worry about it. Want to learn more about the process we handle? Keep reading!

    Quick Summary:

    • Filing Fee: $100
    • Turnaround time: 7-10 business days

    How do I start an LLC in Georgia?

    Thinking about starting an LLC? The process is pretty similar across the states. You'll start by picking a unique name for your business (you'll need to check to make sure it hasn't been taken!) and then filing some paperwork—usually called Articles of Organization or a Certificate of Formation—with your state's agency.

    If you want to check the name availability for Georgia, visit https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch.

    After that's taken care of, you'll want to draft a governing doc for your business called an operating agreement & find any licenses you might need. Just keep in mind that each state has its own little quirks, so it's always a good idea to double-check specific requirements for your area.

    What are the costs & processing times of starting a business in Georgia?

    Here's the rundown for Georgia:

    • The filing fee is: $100
    • There are ongoing fees of $50 (every year)
    • It usually takes 7-10 business days if you're filing online or 15 business days (plus mail time) if by mail.

    Why Georgia is a great state for your LLC

    Starting a company in Georgia offers a multitude of benefits, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. Here are some key advantages:

    • Business-Friendly Environment: Georgia is home to 18 Fortune 500 company headquarters, reflecting its strong economic landscape. The state provides favorable conditions such as low taxes and high credit ratings.
    • Tax Incentives: Entrepreneurs can take advantage of various tax incentives. For instance, the Small Business Tax Relief program allows for faster depreciation on equipment. Startups may claim equipment expenses fully in their first year, enhancing cash flow.
    • Ease of Establishment: Forming a limited liability company (LLC) in Georgia is straightforward and efficient. This structure is particularly beneficial for small- to medium-sized startups, offering essential protections without the complexity associated with larger corporations.
    • Personal Liability Protection: An LLC separates personal assets from business liabilities, protecting personal finances in case of business debts or legal issues.
    • Tax Benefits: LLCs in Georgia can be exempt from the Georgia Corporate Income Tax, potentially lowering overall tax liabilities (conditions apply).
    • Simplicity in Management: LLCs have less stringent regulations and management requirements compared to corporations. This simplicity extends to filing processes, making it easier to maintain compliance.
    • Affordable Registration: The cost to file an LLC is relatively low at just $100, making it accessible for new business owners.

    In summary, Georgia's combination of a supportive economic environment, tax incentives, simplified business structures, personal liability protection, and affordability makes it an ideal location for launching a new company.

    Legal Requirements

    Remember! Legal Bueno will handle all of these requirements for you, but if you're interested, here are the legal requirements for Georgia:

    Articles of Organization

    The articles of organization must include:1. The name and address of each organizer;

    1. The street address and county of the LLC's initial registered office and the name of its initial registered agent at that office;
    2. The mailing address of the LLC's principal place of business; and
    3. The name of the LLC.

    Ga. Code § 14-11-203; Ga. Code § 14-11-204

    The articles of organization may state:1. That management of the LLC is vested in one or more managers; and

    1. Any other provisions not inconsistent with law.

    Ga. Code § 14-11-204

    Filing fee: $100

    Filing Process

    After you've prepared the initial formation documents, you need to file it! Here is what Georgia laws require for filing:

    A signed original and one exact or conformed copy of any document required or permitted to be filed must be delivered to the secretary of state. If the document is electronically transmitted, the electronic version of such person's name may be used in lieu of a signature.

    Unless the secretary of state finds that the document does not conform to the filing provisions, upon receipt of all filing fees and additional information required by law, he or she must:1. Stamp or otherwise endorse his or her official title and the date and time of receipt on both the original and copy;

    1. File the original in his or her office; and
    2. Return the copy to the person who delivered the document to the secretary of state or the person's representative.

    If the secretary of state refuses to file a document, he or she must return it to the LLC or its representative within 10 days after the document was delivered, together with a brief written explanation of the reason for his or her refusal.

    Ga. Code § 14-11-206

    Additional Legal Considerations

    Here are some additional relevant laws that might be useful when operating your business in Georgia:

    Annual Registration

    Ga. Code § 14-11-1103