Missouri makes LLC formation affordable and straightforward with competitive fees and minimal ongoing requirements. You'll pay just $50 to file your Articles of Organization, and the state eliminates annual report requirements entirely for LLCs. Missouri doesn't impose franchise taxes on LLCs, so your profits pass through to members who pay the state's graduated personal income tax.
However, Missouri won't tolerate lapses in basic compliance. You'll need a registered agent with a physical Missouri address, updated state records when ownership or addresses change, and industry-specific licenses before operating.
Missouri operates under the Missouri Limited Liability Company Act, found in Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 347, which provides the statutory framework for all LLC formation, operation, and dissolution procedures. The state's streamlined requirements make compliance manageable compared to states with more burdensome ongoing obligations.
Here's what Missouri requires for formation:
Missouri keeps filing fees competitive with neighboring states:
That $50 base formation fee undercuts most neighboring states, giving Missouri a clear cost advantage. The online portal processes most filings within days, making it the preferred method for speed and savings.
Forming a Missouri LLC isn't complicated, but each document you file becomes part of the public record, so accuracy matters. These five steps will walk you through the entire process in the order you need to follow:
Missouri's naming rules are straightforward: your name must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other registered entities in the state. Search the Missouri Secretary of State's business entity database to confirm availability before filing your Articles of Organization.
The state prohibits names that suggest government affiliation or imply regulated activities like banking or insurance without proper licensing. Avoid words that suggest you're a government agency or a regulated profession unless you can prove you have the relevant licenses.
Not ready to file today? You can reserve an available name for 60 days by paying the $25 fee, giving you time to complete your formation paperwork without losing the name to another applicant.
If you plan to operate under a different trade name, you'll need to file a fictitious name registration with the appropriate county clerk where your LLC maintains its principal office.
Missouri law requires every LLC to maintain a registered agent with a physical Missouri street address who can receive legal documents, state correspondence, and service of process during business hours. This requirement ensures the state and other parties can reach your LLC for important legal matters.
Your registered agent must be:
Your registered agent options include:
Missouri's Articles of Organization must include specific information to create your LLC legally. The required details include your LLC's exact name and principal office address, complete registered agent information, including name and Missouri street address, management structure designation as either member-managed or manager-managed, business purpose (which can be stated generally as "any lawful business"), and duration of the LLC (typically perpetual unless you specify otherwise).
File online through Missouri's Business Registration portal for faster processing and lower fees, or submit paper forms by mail to the Secretary of State's office. Online filings are typically processed within 3-5 business days, while paper submissions can take 2-3 weeks for approval.
Missouri Revised Statute Section 347.081 requires all LLCs to adopt an operating agreement, though it doesn't need to be filed with the state. This internal contract governs relationships between members, managers, and the LLC itself, providing crucial structure for business operations.
Essential provisions to include are:
For single-member LLCs, the operating agreement helps maintain separation between personal and business affairs, strengthening liability protection. Multi-member LLCs especially need written agreements to prevent disputes and ensure smooth operations when conflicts arise over management or financial matters.
Create or refine the agreement soon after formation and store signed copies with your corporate records. Although the state doesn't require filing it, banks, investors, and potential buyers often request a copy before conducting business.
Beyond LLC formation, you'll need various licenses and permits depending on your business activities and location.
Maintaining your Missouri LLC involves significantly fewer ongoing obligations compared to many other states, but compliance remains essential for preserving your liability protection and good standing. Missouri's streamlined approach eliminates annual report filings while still requiring attention to specific areas.
Maintain your registered agent continuously, and update the Secretary of State promptly with any changes to agent information for a $10 filing fee. Keep your operating agreement current as your business evolves, adding or removing members as needed and updating management structures or profit-sharing arrangements.
Failure to meet ongoing requirements can result in:
How long does LLC formation take in Missouri?
Online filings are typically approved within 3-5 business days, while paper submissions can take 2-3 weeks to process. The Secretary of State's online portal provides the fastest processing times at a lower cost.
Can I change my LLC name after formation?
Yes, you can amend your Articles of Organization to change your LLC name by filing the appropriate amendment with the Secretary of State and paying the $25 required fee. The new name must meet the same availability and naming requirements.
How do I dissolve a Missouri LLC?
File Articles of Dissolution with the Secretary of State, pay outstanding debts and obligations, distribute remaining assets to members according to your operating agreement, and notify creditors of the dissolution according to Missouri law requirements.
Discern handles Missouri Articles of Organization filing for LLCs, provides professional in-state registered agent services, and tracks every compliance deadline from day one. Our automated system manages the entire formation process while ensuring your LLC maintains good standing without the administrative burden.
Book a demo today and discover how Discern streamlines formation and ongoing compliance across all states where you operate.
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