What are the filing fees for Hawaii LLCs?

Hawaii offers one of the most affordable LLC formation options in the United States, with a total filing fee of just $51 for Articles of Organization ($50 base fee plus mandatory $1 State Archives fee). The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs handles all LLC filings with multiple submission options and expedited processing available for a $25 additional fee.

For business owners needing faster processing, expedited service brings the total cost to $76 and can reduce processing time from the standard 3-5 business days to as little as one business day. Hawaii's fee structure remains consistent across all filing methods, making it easy to budget accurately for LLC formation.

While these fees have remained stable for extended periods, you should always verify current fees on the DCCA website before filing.

Current Hawaii LLC filing fees

Hawaii processes LLC formations through multiple channels, with online filing offering the fastest standard processing times:

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The $51 fee covers both the $50 base filing fee and the mandatory $1 State Archives fee. Expedited processing adds $25 to either filing method for significantly faster turnaround times.

How Hawaii's filing fees compare to other states

Hawaii's $51 total filing fee positions it among the most affordable states for LLC formation when compared to others across the US. While high-cost states may charge $200-500 for LLC formation, Hawaii's modest fee structure represents significant savings for entrepreneurs.

The value extends beyond formation costs. Hawaii's annual report requirement costs just $12.50 online ($15 by mail), substantially lower than states charging $25-300 annually for ongoing compliance. This combination of low formation costs and minimal ongoing fees makes Hawaii attractive for small business formation.

Hawaii's multiple filing options, clear processing timelines, and optional expedited service provide flexibility while eliminating confusion about hidden costs or variable pricing based on filing method.

Additional filing fees to consider for Hawaii LLCs

Beyond the core $51 formation fee, a few optional charges might pop up during your LLC's lifetime that can create unexpected compliance burdens if you're not prepared. Consider the following:

• Name reservation costs $10 for 120-day protection if you need to secure your LLC name before filing Articles of Organization
• Trade name (DBA) registration runs approximately $50 if you plan to operate under a different public-facing name, valid for five years
• Amendment fees apply for changes to your LLC's registered information after formation, varying by amendment type
• Certified copies cost $10-$13 per document when banks or lenders need official verification
• Certificate of Good Standing carries separate fees and is often required for business transactions or multi-state registration

Other potential filings include various business certificates, registered agent maintenance, and official documents required for banking relationships or expansion into other jurisdictions.

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