Looking to launch an LLC in Arizona? You’ve got this guide to steer you through. From choosing a unique name to filing your Articles of Organization, we’re here to help you get your Arizona LLC off the ground with ease.
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Arizona LLC Quick Facts
- To register an LLC in Arizona, you must file Articles of Organization.
- The filing fee for starting an LLC in Arizona is $50.
- You must appoint a statutory agent for an Arizona LLC.
- After forming your LLC, you are required to complete an LLC publication requirement.
7 Steps to Forming an LLC in Arizona
Forming an LLC in Arizona is a straightforward process. Follow these seven steps to register your LLC in Arizona:
- Name Your Arizona LLC
- Appoint a Statutory Agent
- File Articles of Organization
- Draft an Operating Agreement
- Submit an Arizona LLC Publication Requirement
- Obtain an EIN and Handle Taxes
- File a Beneficial Ownership Information Report
Step 1: Name Your Arizona LLC
The first step toward forming an LLC in Arizona is selecting a business name.
Arizona business names must comply with the following:
- Include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “Limited Company”
- Be unique and distinguishable from any other business entity in the state
- Your LLC name cannot include terms that imply government affiliation or falsify your business’s purpose
For the full list of naming requirements for Arizona LLCs, review the Arizona Corporations Division’s corporate and LLC name requirements.
To be sure that your LLC name is unique, you will need to complete an entity search on the Arizona Corporations Commission’s website.
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Step 2: Appoint a Statutory Agent
The next step to register an LLC in Arizona is to appoint a statutory agent. In most states this is known as a registered agent.
A statutory agent is responsible for receiving important information and documents on behalf of the business. This may include government correspondence, tax documents, or notice of lawsuits.
In Arizona, the statutory agent must:
- Have a physical address in Arizona where they can receive legal documents
- Be available during normal business hours
- Not be the LLC itself but can be an LLC owner or employee of the business
Who is eligible to serve as a registered agent in Arizona?
A statutory agent for businesses in Arizona can be the LLC owner, an employee of the company, a friend, or a family member. Additionally, there is an option to hire a registered agent service for this role.
Step 3: Submit Your Articles of Organization
To formally register your LLC, you need to file multiple forms with the Arizona Corporation Commission:
- Articles of Organization
- Statutory Agent Acceptable
- Member Structure Attachment or Manager Structure Attachment
- Cover Sheet
You can submit these forms online, by mail, or in person.
The filing fee is $50.
Before filing, make sure you have the following information ready:
- Your LLC name, address, and classification
- The names and addresses of all LLC owners and structure attachment
- Your statutory agent’s name and address
Quick Note: If your business is already registered in another state you will need to file as a foreign LLC. This can be done online, in person, or by mail by submitting a Foreign Registration Statement and additional documents with a filing fee of $150.
Step 4: Draft an Operating Agreement
An operating agreement outlines ownership percentages, day-to-day operations, and other important details about your LLC.
Creating an operating agreement isn’t required in Arizona. However, this document can be a helpful tool in preventing future conflict and ensuing operations are agreed upon by all LLC members.
Step 5: Submit an Arizona LLC Publication Requirement
The state of Arizona requires all LLCs to publish a Notice of LLC formation within 60 days of formation.
This publication must run for three consecutive weeks in an approved newspaper within the county of the LLC’s principal address. However, businesses located in Pima and Maricopa counties are exempt.
Step 6: Obtain an EIN and Handle Taxes
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that allows them to track your business for tax reporting purposes. This is an important step to ensure your business can pay taxes, hire employees, and open a business bank account.
You can obtain an EIN for free on the IRS website.
When you have your EIN, you can start registering for taxes to ensure your business stays compliant. To learn more about business taxes in Arizona, visit the AZTaxes website.
Step 7: File a Beneficial Ownership Information Report
All LLCs are required to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report with the US Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
New LLCs must file this report within 90 days of formation. However, existing LLCs must file before January 1st, 2025.
Failure to file this report can result in a $500 per day fine.
You can file your BOI report for free on the FinCEN website.
Next Steps
- Separate and protect your personal assets by opening a business bank account. We recommended Lili, sign up in minutes for business banking and financial management tools.
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- Obtain any business licenses and permits your business needs at the state level or federal level.
- Get insurance for your business, starting with general liability, workers’ compensation, and personal liability insurance. Next Insurance makes this step super simple and affordable.
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Additional Tips for Success
- Find a mentor: Establishing a relationship with a mentor or advisor is a great step toward obtaining the support you need to run and grow your business.
- Keep track of compliance requirements: Stay informed about Arizona’s reporting and fee requirements as well as obligations you are responsible for to ensure your business stays compliant.
- Build a network: Surround yourself with other entrepreneurs and potential partners that can make up a network of support for your business.
Conclusion
Starting an LLC in Arizona is an exciting moment in the lifecycle of your business. Be sure to follow the steps and requirements diligently to ensure your business is starting out as strong as possible and avoid compliance issues.