If you plan to file LLC or Missouri Series LLC documents and want to learn more about the steps to starting an LLC, this article is for you. It outlines how to open an LLC in Missouri while getting an in-depth look at the procedural angle. This includes the necessary forms and fees that go into a Missouri LLC registration, as well as the company’s subsequent development. As long as you follow these steps while starting an LLC in Missouri, you can be sure that you’re on the right course.
Navigation
An LLC’s name is what sets it apart from the competition. Its use goes beyond registration since it will be shown on your business cards, storefront, and ads. Effectively promoting your business means finding a name that’s memorable and unique but also legally valid.
The main requirements as administered by the Missouri Secretary of State for LLC names stipulate that they should:
When you pick a company name, don’t rush using it on the Articles of Organization. First, you have to check its availability by using the state’s business name database designed for free Missouri LLC search. This isn’t a requirement for Missouri LLC online filing, but it can save your application from being rejected if your business name is already in use.
If a business entity search in Missouri shows the name to be available, you can go ahead and register it. But if the name is taken, you will have to distinctly alter it or find a new one. Note that not all name changes are valid, for instance, none of the following alterations will be considered sufficient:
If you already have a perfect Missouri LLC name but don’t plan to register just yet, you can reserve the name for the time being. This service ensures the name won’t be taken by other entities while you’re preparing for your company launch.
Here the reservation period is 60 days. You can extend it 2 more times but the overall reservation period should not exceed 180 days. To reserve LLC name in Missouri, you can send the application online, by mail, or in person. The service fee is $25 regardless of the method.
The best way to save time is through an online application since the office processes it immediately. You can apply at the Corporation Online Portal by filling out the form and submitting it.
If you prefer paper documents, you can download the Application for Reservation of Name and print it out. The completed form and your service fee check should be directed to:
Secretary of State, Corporations Division
P.O. Box 778
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Jefferson residents and visitors can hand in the form at the following address:
600 W. Main St., Rm. 322, Jefferson City, MO 65102
Paper forms are typically reviewed within 3-5 business days.
To register LLC in Missouri, you should not only file the Articles of Organization but also follow some additional requirements. The state must always be able to contact your company, hence why it’s imperative to appoint a registered agent when forming an LLC in Missouri.
Don’t worry if you don’t really know what the registered agent role entails since most entrepreneurs encounter the concept when they delve into the process of how to get LLC in Missouri and maintain its good standing.
A registered agent is a representative of a company in the state who handles official correspondence and forwards it to the LLC owner. According to Section 347.030 of the Revised Missouri Statutes, registered agents must handle:
Almost anyone can be a registered agent in Missouri, whether it’s an individual or an entity.
Your business partner, relative, accountant, or attorney can become your agent as long as they:
A good option for those who value a professional approach is hiring an online service like Northwest Registered Agent. Their registered agent service is considered to be one of the best in the industry. They not only offer greater peace of mind, convenience, and privacy protection but also scan all documents locally. Northwest registered agent’s annual fee is only $125, plus you can get one year free of charge if you hire Northwest to launch your LLC.
To start doing business in Missouri, most entities must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which is a nine-digit code assigned by the IRS for tax purposes.
When do you need an EIN? Your LLC will likely require one for:
The IRS provides LLC EIN for free. You can apply for it online, by mail or by fax.
If you want to use your EIN number Missouri right away, it’s best to obtain one online. To apply you must provide a valid Social Security number. They accept applications only between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.
Another accessible option of getting this number for an LLC in Missouri is by fax. This method usually takes about 4 days to process. To apply, send the completed Form SS-4 to:
(855) 641-6935
If you’re not in a hurry to get your Missouri Tax ID, you can obtain it via mail, in which case the wait will be about 4 weeks. To apply, send the completed Form SS-4 to:
Internal Revenue Service Operation
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
One of the major points in favor of Missouri LLC formation is the limited liability protection it provides. However, an owner might lose these privileges following a court ruling if they fail to clearly separate their personal and business assets.
To avoid this, it’s highly recommended you open a bank account under your company’s name as soon as your Missouri LLC application gets approved. Thankfully, almost all LLC businesses in Missouri can do so with ease as long as they provide:
One of the fundamental steps to setting up an LLC in Missouri is filing the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. This is one of the key LLC formation documents the approval of which declares your company official.
To fill out your Missouri LLC Articles of Organization, you have to provide the following information:
The official Missouri business registration is only possible by way of filing the Articles of Organization. When you file LLC Missouri online, the processing fee is $55, but paper applications cost a whopping $105.
If you prefer digital applications, you can register by doing the following:
If you can’t apply online or want to pay by check, it’s possible to apply via mail. Complete the paper application and send it along with the check to:
State of Missouri
Corporations Division
P.O. Box 778
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Jefferson residents can submit LLC paperwork in person at:
600 W. Main St., Rm. 322 Jefferson City, MO 65102
The Secretary of State normally processes these applications within 3-5 business days.
Unlike most states, it won’t be enough to simply file the Articles of Organization to launch an LLC in Missouri. In addition to LLC documents, you will also need to draft a deed that outlines the internal structure of the company, as well as its goals and procedures. This document is called an Operating Agreement.
The main advantages of a Missouri operating agreement include:
There is no general form for a Missouri LLC Operating Agreement considering that each company requires a unique approach. Still, an effective agreement should include:
There are 2 ways to get this document:
Submitting the Operating Agreement with the Secretary of State is not a requirement.
Missouri business owners do not need to file annual reports, but there are still a few state requirements they will need to meet.
When you assess the cost to start an LLC in Missouri, keep in mind that you will likely have to get multiple licenses. Although your business becomes legal upon its registration, it won’t be enough to fully operate in Missouri.
The types of licenses and permits as well as their number depends on your entity’s industry and location. There is no general Missouri business license, but most counties and municipalities impose their own licensing regulations.
If you aren’t sure whether you need Missouri LLC business licenses and permits, be sure to check the Professional Registration and Licensing page to learn more.
Due to the pass-through nature of this structure, the owners don’t do any separate LLC tax filings. Instead, all business profits go on the members’ personal 1040 tax returns and/or Schedule C, though the company can also elect a corporate taxation system.
Missouri LLC Taxes are fairly simple on a state level. Here, the LLC is classified as a pass-through entity and is exempt from franchise or privilege tax.
If you plan to open LLC in Missouri, make sure to research what types of taxes apply to your company. According to Missouri LLC requirements, companies that sell goods and services must pay the Sales Tax and Use Tax, while businesses with official payrolls are subject to Withholding Tax and an Unemployment Insurance Tax.
To be able to pay taxes, you have to first register with the IRS through their online registration system. For Sales Tax and Use Tax and Withholding taxes, you can only apply with a paper application. For more information about state taxation, visit the Department of Revenue website or the Department of Labor website.
If you wish to save time and effort, consider hiring a professional agency for opening an LLC in Missouri. The current market offers a range of LLC formation services able to oversee the launch of a company while making it painless.
By hiring one of the Best LLC Services, you will be able to conduct Missouri LLC without any setbacks. Each of these services has a stellar reputation solidified by years of experience of providing LLC help, while their prices start as low as $0.
