Ready to start a business in Missouri? You’re in the right place. From naming your LLC to filing formation documents, these are the steps you need to follow in order to officially register your Missouri LLC.
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Missouri LLC Quick Facts
- To start an LLC in Missouri, you need to file Articles of Organization.
- The filing fee for an LLC in Missouri is $50 online, $105 paper filing.
- Within 30 days of formation, all Missouri LLCs must file an LLC operating agreement with the Secretary of State.
6 Steps to Registering an LLC in Missouri
Starting an LLC in Missouri requires only a few steps.
Ready to register an LLC in Missouri? Follow these six steps to get started:
- Name Your Missouri LLC
- Appoint a Registered Agent
- File Articles of Organization
- Create an Operating Agreement
- Obtain an EIN and Handle Taxes
- File a Beneficial Ownership Information Report
Step 1: Name Your Missouri LLC
To register an LLC in Missouri, the first step is to choose a name for your LLC.
Missouri requires that business names adhere to the following guidelines:
- Include the phrase “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.C.”
- Be distinguishable from any existing business entity in the state
- Cannot include terms that misrepresent the business’s purpose
For the complete list of requirements, review this list of Missouri LLC naming requirements.
To verify the uniqueness of your chosen name, conduct a name search on the Missouri Secretary of State’s website.
Protect your brand and ensure your LLC’s name has a matching URL with GoDaddy.
Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
To register an LLC in Missouri, you must select a registered agent. A registered agent in Missouri is an individual or business entity that is designated to receive important legal documents on behalf of your company.
Registered agents in Missouri must:
- Have a physical address in Missouri where they can receive official documents
- Be available during regular business hours to accept service of process
- Not be the LLC itself (but can be an LLC owner)
Who is Eligible to Serve as a Registered Agent in Missouri?
It is important to designate a registered agent that meets the state’s criteria. A registered agent can be the LLC owner, an employee of the company, a friend, a family member, or a registered agent service.
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with the State
To register an LLC in Missouri, one essential step is to file Articles of Organization with the state. This official filing can be completed online through the Secretary of State’s website or by submitting this form by mail or in person.
The filing fee is $50 online, $105 paper filing.
We recommend that you prepare the following details:
- Your LLC’s name
- The purpose for which your LLC is being formed
- The name and address of your registered agent
- Your LLC’s management structure (member-managed vs. manager-managed)
- The names and addresses of all LLC organizers
Quick Note: If your LLC has already been formed in another state, you will need to register as a foreign LLC in Missouri. This can be done by filing an Application for Registration with the Secretary of State along with a filing fee of $105.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement for Your LLC
In Missouri, creating an operating agreement for your LLC is required. An operating agreement is a document that outlines the internal procedures and ownership details of the company. This document can help prevent future conflicts and ensure that all LLC members are on the same page.
Step 5: Obtain an EIN and Handle Taxes
To register an LLC in Missouri, it is important to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This number is essential for tax reporting purposes, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account.
You can obtain your EIN for free on the IRS website.
In addition to obtaining an EIN, it is crucial to identify any additional tax obligations for your business. You can find more information on tax requirements by visiting the Missouri Department of Revenue website.
Step 6: File a Beneficial Ownership Information Report
LLCs in Missouri are required to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report with the US Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). New LLCs are expected to submit this report within 90 days of formation, while existing LLCs have a deadline between January 1st, 2024, and January 1st, 2025.
Failure to comply with this requirement can result in a $500 per day fine.
The filing process can be completed online for free at the FinCEN website.
Next Steps
- Open a separate business bank account to protect your personal assets and keep your business finances organized. We recommend Lili Banking and Accounting Services to open a business bank account in just minutes.
Lili is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Sunrise Banks N.A., Member FDIC.
- Obtain any necessary licenses and permits required by the state of Missouri or at the federal level to operate your LLC legally. For more information, visit the Secretary of State website.
- Consider getting business insurance for your LLC, including general liability, workers’ compensation, and personal liability coverage to protect your business from unexpected events. NEXT Insurance makes getting insurance quick and affordable.
Additional Tips for Success
- Work With Professionals: Consult with a business attorney or tax professional for guidance on forming and operating your LLC.
- Stay Organized: Keep detailed records of all business transactions and financial documents for compliance and tax purposes.
- Build a Network: Network with other business owners and industry leaders to gain insights and support for your LLC.
Conclusion
Registering an LLC in Missouri is a straightforward process that involves selecting a unique name, appointing a registered agent, filing the necessary paperwork, and obtaining an EIN. By following these steps diligently, you can ensure that your business is set up for success in the state of Missouri.
