How to Start Your LLC in Washington

    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: $200
    • Turnaround time: 12-14 business days

    How do I start an LLC in Washington?

    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 Washington, visit https://ccfs.sos.wa.gov/#/.

    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 Washington?

    Here's the rundown for Washington:

    • The filing fee is: $200
    • There are ongoing fees of $60 (every year)
    • It usually takes 12-14 business days if you're filing online or 5-6 weeks (plus mail time) if by mail.

    Why Washington is a great state for your LLC

    Starting a company in Washington offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs. Here are some key advantages:

    • Tax Incentives: Washington provides over 50 tax incentive programs through the Department of Revenue. Businesses can qualify for various tax credits, such as a $3,000 credit per employee for positions filled in designated areas, potentially increasing profitability.
    • Ideal Business Structure: Establishing a Washington limited liability company (LLC) is straightforward and efficient. This structure protects personal assets from business liabilities and is particularly suited for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises.
    • Simplicity and Flexibility: LLCs have simpler rules and regulations compared to larger corporations, making them easier to manage and maintain compliance. This setup allows entrepreneurs to focus more on their business rather than administrative tasks.
    • Cost-Effective Setup: The initial filing fee for forming an LLC in Washington is relatively low at $180, making it accessible for new business owners.
    • Tax Benefits: LLCs can take advantage of streamlined tax filing processes, which can lead to potential tax treatment benefits, further enhancing financial management for business owners.

    These factors combined position Washington as a favorable environment for launching a new business, fostering growth and sustainability.

    Legal Requirements

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

    Articles of Organization

    The certificate of formation must include:1. The name of the LLC;

    1. The name and address of the registered agent for service of process;
    2. The address of the principal office of the LLC;
    3. If the LLC is to have a specific date of dissolution, the latest date on which the LLC is to dissolve;
    4. Any other matters the members decide to include; and
    5. The name and address of each person executing the certificate of formation.

    Wash. Rev. Code § 25.15.071

    Online filing fee: $200

    Paper filing fee: $180

    Filing Process

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

    Each record permitted or required to be filed with the secretary of state must comply with the requirements of Article 2 of the Uniform Business Organizations Code, Wash. Rev. Code § 23.95.200 et seq.

    Wash. Rev. Code § 25.15.086

    To be filed by the secretary of state , an entity filing must be received by the secretary of state and satisfy the following:1. The entity filing must be delivered in a tangible form unless and to the extent the secretary of state permits electronic delivery;

    1. The words in the entity filing must be in English, and numbers must be in Arabic or Roman numerals, but the name of the entity need not be in English if written in English letters or Arabic or Roman numerals;
    2. The entity filing must be properly executed;
    3. The entity filing must state the name and capacity, if any, of each individual who executed it, on behalf of either the individual or the person authorized or required to execute the filing, but need not contain a seal, attestation, acknowledgment, or verification.

    When an entity filing is delivered to the secretary of state for filing, any required fee, interest, or penalty must be paid.

    The secretary of state may require that an entity filing delivered in a tangible form be accompanied by an identical or conformed copy.

    A record filed may be executed by an individual acting in a valid representative capacity.

    Wash. Rev. Code § 23.95.200

    Additional Legal Considerations

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

    Initial and annual reports

    Wash. Rev. Code § 25.15.106

    Effect of LLC agreement–nonwaivable provisions

    Wash. Rev. Code § 25.15.018

    Certificate of existence or registration

    Wash. Rev. Code § 23.95.235