To get an LLC in Hawaii, it takes 3-4 weeks by mail and 3-5 business days by filing online.

If you are interested in starting a business in Hawaii and want to register as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), you may be wondering how long the process takes.

The good news is that getting an LLC in Hawaii is relatively straightforward and can be done in a few steps.

However, the actual timeline for getting an LLC in Hawaii can vary depending on several factors.

Approval Time for a Hawaii LLC

Online Filing: You can get an LLC in Hawaii in 3-5 business days

Mail Filing: Filing by mail can take about 3-4 weeks


Hawaii LLC Filing Steps

Online Filing

Here are the steps to file online for a Hawaii LLC on the Hawaii state website in a numbered list format:

  1. Visit the Hawaii Business Express website: Go to https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/cogs/ and select “Limited Liability Company” from the drop-down menu under “Start a New Filing.”
  2. Enter LLC information: Enter the name of your LLC, the registered agent’s name and address, and the name and address of each member or manager. You will also need to provide your email address and phone number.
  3. Choose LLC type: Select the type of LLC you want to form, such as domestic or foreign, single-member or multi-member, and member-managed or manager-managed.
  4. Choose business activities: Select the type of business activities your LLC will engage in, such as retail sales or professional services.
  5. Review and submit: Review your LLC information and make any necessary changes. Once you are satisfied, submit the filing and pay the required filing fee online.
  6. Obtain an EIN: After your LLC is approved, you will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS if you have more than one member or employee. You can apply for an EIN on the IRS website.
  7. File annual reports: Your Hawaii LLC must file an annual report every year to maintain its active status. You can file your annual report online through the Hawaii Business Express website.

Overall, filing for a Hawaii LLC online involves entering your LLC information, choosing your LLC type and business activities, reviewing and submitting the filing, obtaining an EIN, and filing annual reports to maintain your LLC’s active status.


Filing by Mail

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file for a Hawaii LLC by mail:

I. Obtain the Articles of Organization

  • You can download the Articles of Organization form from the Hawaii Business Registration Division’s website.

II. Fill out the Articles of Organization

  • The form will require basic information about your LLC, such as the name, address, and purpose of the LLC, as well as the names and addresses of the LLC’s members or managers.
  • You will also need to provide the name and address of the LLC’s registered agent.

III. Prepare a check or money order

  • The filing fee for the Articles of Organization is $50.00.
  • Make the check or money order payable to “Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs.”

IV. Mail the Articles of Organization and payment

  • Send the completed Articles of Organization form and payment to the following address: Business Registration Division Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs P.O. Box 40 Honolulu, Hawaii 96810

V. Wait for the processing

  • It typically takes 5-7 business days for the Business Registration Division to process your LLC formation documents.
  • Once your LLC is approved, you will receive a Certificate of Organization in the mail.

Note: While filing by mail is an option, it may be faster and more convenient to file online through the Hawaii Business Express portal. The online filing fee is $51.25.


Overview of Steps & Time Involved in Getting a Hawaii LLC

Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in getting an LLC in Hawaii and an estimate of how long each step takes.

Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC

The first step in forming an LLC in Hawaii is choosing a name for your business. You will need to make sure the name you choose is available and not already in use by another business in the state. You can search the Hawaii Secretary of State’s online database to see if the name you want is available.

Timeframe: This step can be done relatively quickly, usually within a day or two.

Step 2: File Articles of Organization

Once you have chosen a name for your LLC, you will need to file Articles of Organization with the Hawaii Secretary of State. This document establishes your LLC and includes basic information such as the name of the LLC, the registered agent, and the members of the LLC.

Timeframe: Filing the Articles of Organization typically takes around one to two weeks. However, if you choose to file online, you may receive confirmation of your LLC’s approval within a few days.

Step 3: Obtain an EIN

An EIN, or Employer Identification Number, is a unique nine-digit number that identifies your LLC for tax purposes. You will need to obtain an EIN from the IRS, even if you do not plan to hire employees.

Timeframe: Obtaining an EIN can usually be done quickly online, and you will receive your number immediately.

Step 4: Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on the type of business you plan to operate, you may need to apply for additional licenses and permits from the state or local government. This can include things like a business license, sales tax permit, or professional license.

Timeframe: The time it takes to obtain business licenses and permits can vary widely depending on the type of license or permit you need. Some licenses and permits can be obtained quickly, while others may take several weeks or even months to process.

Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement

Although it is not required by Hawaii law, it is recommended that you create an Operating Agreement for your LLC. This document outlines the management structure of your LLC and the rights and responsibilities of the members.

Timeframe: Creating an Operating Agreement can take several days or even weeks, depending on the complexity of your LLC’s management structure and the number of members.

Overall, the timeline for getting an LLC in Hawaii can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of your business and the number of licenses and permits you need to obtain.

If you are in a hurry to get your LLC up and running, you may want to consider using an online formation service, which can expedite the process significantly.

However, if you have a more complex business structure or need to apply for multiple licenses and permits, it may take longer to complete the process.


 

Should I Hire an LLC Filing Service in Hawaii?

Whether or not to hire an LLC filing service in Hawaii depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

An LLC filing service can be helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the formation process, need assistance with paperwork and filing, or simply want to save time and hassle. LLC filing services can take care of the paperwork and filing process for you, so you can focus on running your business. Additionally, some LLC filing services may offer additional services, such as registered agent services or tax advice.

However, if you’re comfortable with the formation process and have the time and resources to handle the paperwork and filing yourself, hiring an LLC filing service may not be necessary. You can file the Articles of Organization yourself by mail or online, and the process is generally straightforward. Additionally, hiring an attorney or accountant to review your documents and provide guidance can be a more cost-effective option than hiring an LLC filing service.

Ultimately, the decision to hire an LLC filing service in Hawaii is a personal one and depends on your specific needs and circumstances. It’s always recommended to do your research, compare costs and services, and consult with professionals before making a decision.

Conclusion

In summary, while the process of obtaining an LLC in Hawaii can take a bit of time, it is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with a little bit of effort and attention to detail.

By following the steps outlined above, you can get your LLC up and running and start pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams in no time.

author avatar
Brian Wilson Writer and Editor
Brian Wilson is the content manager and founder of LLC Radar. Brian grew up in North Texas, just outside of Dallas, and has a bachelor's degree in business from Southern Methodist University. Since graduating from SMU, Brian has gained over 10 years of experience in business writing for several online publications. Brian resides in Plano, Texas and he can be reached by email:   info@llcradar.com Phone: 972-776-4050
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