Starting an LLC in Louisiana is straightforward and affordable if you follow the state's rules closely. Louisiana requires three essentials under the state law: a proper name, a registered agent with a Louisiana street address, and Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State. Everything else is recommended but not required by law.
The costs are reasonable compared to many states. Louisiana charges $100 to file your Articles of Organization, and $30 per year for annual reports when filed online. If they reject your filing, you'll pay that $100 again, so getting the details right saves you real money and headaches.
How you file affects how quickly you get approved, though both methods cost the same.
Filing online is faster and easier. Choose paper, and you'll wait longer for manual processing.
Your LLC name needs "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC," and must stand out from other Louisiana businesses. Check if your name is available using the Louisiana Secretary of State's online search tool.
Avoid using restricted words like "bank" or "insurance" unless you have obtained special permission. Planning to use a different name for your business than your official LLC name? File a trade name (DBA) with the Secretary of State for $75. You can reserve your chosen name for 120 days by filing an Application for Reservation of Name and paying a $25 fee.
You need a registered agent with a physical street address in Louisiana, as P.O. boxes are not accepted. This can be any Louisiana resident at least 18 years old, or a business authorized to provide registered agent services. Your agent must also give written consent.
Skip maintaining a registered agent, and the state might dissolve your LLC, shutting down your business and exposing you to personal liability. Choose someone reliable, as it's critical for staying compliant and maintaining your peace of mind.
The Articles of Organization (Form 365) officially establish your LLC. Include your LLC's name, main office address, business purpose, and registered agent's name and physical address. If managers are running your LLC, list their names and business addresses.
File your Louisiana LLC Articles of Organization online through the GeauxBiz portal, by mail, or in person with a filing fee to the Secretary of State. Louisiana law requires your Articles of Organization to be notarized before submission.
The law doesn't require an Operating Agreement, but it's smart to have one. This document outlines who owns what, how you'll manage things, and how your LLC operates. It prevents confusion and arguments, especially if you have multiple members.
The Operating Agreement strengthens your liability protection and makes things clear for banks, investors, and members. You can write it yourself for free or get professional help for a fee.
Louisiana doesn't require you to get a statewide general business license, but your specific industry might need special licenses. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS; it's free, and you'll need it for tax purposes and banking.
If you sell taxable goods or services, register for sales tax with the Louisiana Department of Revenue, and check with your local parish and municipality about permits your business might need.
Creating your LLC is just the beginning. Staying compliant requires consistent attention to annual reports, tax obligations, maintaining your registered agent, and keeping good standing with the state.
Your annual report is due every year on your LLC's anniversary date, with a $30 filing fee when filed online or $35 by mail. Filing online through the GeauxBiz portal is quicker and provides instant confirmation. Failing to file for three consecutive years results in administrative dissolution, removing your LLC's legal status and liability protections.
Louisiana LLCs enjoy pass-through taxation by default, meaning no entity-level state income tax. However, you may owe Louisiana franchise tax if your LLC elects corporate taxation status. If your LLC has employees, register for Louisiana unemployment insurance and workers' compensation. Maintain your registered agent appointment continuously, and any change requires notification to the Secretary of State with a $25 fee.
What is the cost to start an LLC in Louisiana?
The Articles of Organization cost $100. Add $0 if you're your own registered agent, or $100 to $300 annually for professional services, plus an optional $25 name reservation fee. Most owners spend between $100 and $425 to get started.
How long does formation take?
Online filings typically process within 1-2 business days, while paper submissions can take 5-7 business days or longer, depending on mail time.
Is an Operating Agreement required?
No, but you'd be smart to have one. Banks, investors, and even solo entrepreneurs rely on it to establish ownership, determine profit distribution, and resolve disputes. You can write it yourself at no cost.
Can I form an LLC in another state if I operate in Louisiana?
Yes, but you'll need to register as a foreign LLC once you "transact business" in Louisiana, paying both home-state and Louisiana fees. The foreign LLC filing fee in Louisiana is $150.
Discern handles Louisiana LLC compliance filings, providing real-time processing estimates and clear status updates. Most Discern filings are completed in minutes, eliminating the uncertainty and stress of traditional compliance management.
When you're ready to expand beyond Louisiana, we also manage formations and compliance across all 51 jurisdictions. Book a demo with Discern today to get started.
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