The actual steps you take to form an Indiana limited liability company are pretty simple. We are providing instructions on how to get the forms filed below. (These instructions are up-to-date as of July 27, 2020.).
We’ve also got a free, downloadable “do it yourself” kit you can use. In other words, the price you pay to purchase equals “zero.” That kit provides more information about LLCs and includes a couple of free LLC operating agreements. (We used to sell the kit but since the Covid-19 pandemic have simply given the kit away.)
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 Indiana Secretary of State’s online database at:
https://bsd.sos.in.gov/publicbusinesssearch
The Name Availability Search does not guarantee that the name is available; it is a preliminary step.
If you want to reserve a name, you can do so by filling out the appropriate form and sending the $20 fee. This is not necessary, especially if you plan to file your forms immediately.
2. Begin the online application to form an LLC
Indiana has an e-filing option which is a little cheaper ($95) and usually faster. It is a clear and straightforward process. The URL, or web page address, to file online is:
https://inbiz.in.gov/BOS/Home/Index
You can also download the application to form an LLC from the Indiana Department of State’s web site, and then print this form.
The URL, or web page address, for this form is as shown below.
https://secure.in.gov/sos/business/2426.htm
After you complete the Articles of Organization, send the document and a check for filing fee (typically $100 if you are just filing) to:
Mailing Address:
Secretary of State
Business Services Division
302 West Washington Street, Room E-018
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Both forms of filing ask for the same information and follow roughly the same format.
3. Indicate that you want to form an entity
Click in front of the “Entity” box. Next scroll down and click on “Domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC).”
4. Give your contact information
Provide your e-mail address and then confirm it. This provides the state with contact information in case they want to ask you questions about your application or send you additional information.
5. Identify the name you want to use for your new LLC
As described in step 1 above, you input the name you want (without the LLC) and the computer will check if that name is available. When the program has verified that the name is available, you will be asked which suffix you want to use to indicate that the new entity is a Limited Liability Company. (I used the example name, “Acme 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:
- Acme Explosives Limited Liability Company
- Acme Explosives LLC
- Acme Explosives L.L.C.
6. Print and save transaction information
The computer program next gives you important information which includes your transaction ID and information on how to check your filing status. Print and keep this information.
7. Indicate the address in which the LLC office is located
Where the Certificate of Organization provides a space for it, specify the address which the LLC office is located.
8. Provide your name and address as the registered agent
Indiana wants to know the name and contact information for the registered agent within the state of Indiana. Accordingly, enter your name and address information onto the lines that ask for this information.
9. State the date the LLC will start and when it will dissolve
If you have a date in the future to start your LLC (effective date) indicate it here. If you want it to be effective immediately leave today’s date in the computer program. Likewise if you have a date to dissolve your LLC, check that box and state the date. If you have no plans to dissolve the LLC, answer that question with “yes.”
10. State the management style of the LLC
An LLC can be managed by managers or by members. Select which way your LLC will be managed.
11. Sign the application
The organizer of the LLC must sign. In this case it will be electronically.
12. Checkout and submit the LLC application
After you complete the Articles of Organization application, you will pay the $95 application fee to a credit card and click submit. Use the information you printed in step 6 to track your application.