Do you need to form a Georgia limited liability company? You should know that while you can outsource this task to some professional services firm or an online service, the work is surprisingly simple.
In the paragraphs below, we provide step-by-step instructions for forming an LLC in the Peach State.
But though those simple instructions may be all you need to form your entity, let also blurb our $34.95 Georgia LLC formation kit and ebook. This e-book which you can buy and download using the button below, includes this page’s instructions, a primer on the benefits and drawbacks of using an LLC for your business, sample Georgia forms, instructions on getting an EIN for banking and tax purposes, and sample (and reusable) LLC operating agreements.
Again, though, if you just need a hand with getting the forms filed with the state, simply follow these instructions:
1. Check if the LLC name you want is available
As a first step, you may want to check if the LLC name you want to use is even available. Here’s an easy and free way to do this: You can search for a similarly named LLC using the Georgia Department of State’s online database at:
http://www.sos.state.ga.us/corporations/corpsearch.htm
You can also reserve a name prior to filing. A reservation fee of $25 must accompany the request. The reservation may be made at the Corporations Division web site,
http://www.sos.ga.gov/acrobat/corporations/name%20reservation%20form%2008.pdf
A number that remains in effect for 30 days will be provided by return e-mail within 24 hours of receipt of the request, and often sooner. Place the number on the Transmittal Form 231 that is filed with the articles of organization. A reservation number may also be obtained by writing to the Division at the above address. Provide the name, address and telephone number of the person making the request. Reservations are not available by telephone. Filings are accepted without a name reservation.
2. Initiate filling out Georgia’s online form
The best way to file Articles of Organization in Georgia is now online. The URL, or web page address, for filing Articles of Organization is as shown below. If you are hesitant to begin filling out information online without knowing all that you will be required of you, you can skim through the figures in this packet and see all the information you will need to input. When you are ready to begin click the URL below.
http://sos.georgia.gov/corporations/new_entity_notice.htm
For this page use the information in the right hand column. When you have read the information, click “Continue.” On the following page click “Limited Liability Company.”
3. Provide your name and address to the Secretary of State’s office
Georgia wants to know the name and contact information for a real person (the filer) within the state of Georgia who the state can contact if it has questions or concerns about an LLC’s operation or if legal documents need to be served. Accordingly, enter your name and address information (no P.O. boxes) onto the lines that ask for this information.
4. Identify the name you want to use for your new LLC
Enter your business or investment name onto the lines provided. (I used the example name, “Peach Explosives LLC.”) The name must include “Limited Liability Company” or one of the standard abbreviations, “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” For example, all of the following names should be acceptable:
- Peach Explosives Limited Liability Company
- Peach Explosives LLC
- Peach Explosives L.L.C.
5. Provide the LLC principle office mailing address
This is the address where the LLC will receive mail. Unlike your address, the LLC address can be a post office box.
6. Provide name and address of LLC’s registered agent
Article 3 asks about your registered agent. If you live in Georgia you can be your own registered agent. If not, this part of the program helps you find one. Tip: Be sure to include your county.
7. Identify yourself as the LLC organizer
Getting tired of writing your name and address yet? You need to provide your name and address as the LLC organizer. This information goes into Article 4. Next step-verify info.
8. Option provisions
Article 5 gives you the opportunity to input optional provisions. Most individuals using this kit will leave this blank and continue with “Save & Proceed.”
9. Sign the application
Click to verify the accuracy of the information and click below to input an electronic signature.
10. Submit the application
After you complete the Articles of Organization questions, you’ll be asked to pay $100 via credit card.
Processing lead times vary, but in general, it takes weeks to get your LLC certificate back from the Secretary of State’s office.