Forming an LLC in New Jersey can streamline your business, but how long does the process truly take?
Find the answer our comprehensive guide to understand the timeline, key steps, and potential roadblocks to successfully register your Limited Liability Company in the Garden State.
To get an LLC in New Jersey, it takes 3-4 weeks by mail and 3-5 business days by filing online.
Approval Time for an New Jersey LLC
Online Filing: You can get an LLC in New Jersey in 3-5 business days Mail Filing: Filing by mail can take about 3-4 weeks |
New Jersey LLC Filing Steps
Online Filing
Sure, here are the steps to form an LLC online in the state of New Jersey:
- Choose a name for your LLC: Choose a unique name for your LLC that complies with New Jersey’s business name rules. You can check if your desired name is available using the New Jersey Business Name Search tool.
- File Certificate of Formation: You can file the Certificate of Formation online with the State of New Jersey’s Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. You will need to create an account on the NJ Business Gateway Services website to access the online filing system. Here is a link to the online filing system: https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessFormation/EntityFormation.
- Appoint a registered agent: Your LLC must have a registered agent in New Jersey to accept legal and official documents on behalf of the company. The agent can be an individual or a company authorized to do business in New Jersey. You can appoint a registered agent online during the LLC formation process or separately.
- Obtain necessary permits and licenses: Depending on your business type and location, you may need to obtain additional permits and licenses to operate in New Jersey. The New Jersey Business Portal provides a list of licenses and permits required for different business types and industries. You can also use the Business Wizard tool on the website to determine which permits and licenses your business may need.
- Obtain an EIN: An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a unique identification number assigned to your LLC by the IRS. You will need an EIN to open a bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. You can apply for an EIN for free on the IRS website.
Here are some useful links:
- New Jersey Business Name Search tool: https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessNameSearch/Search.aspx
- New Jersey Business Portal: https://business.nj.gov/
- New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/revenue/
- Online filing system for Certificate of Formation: https://www.njportal.com/DOR/BusinessFormation/EntityFormation
- IRS EIN application: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online
Please note that the above information is for general guidance only, and you should consult with a legal or tax professional for specific advice related to your situation.
Filing by Mail
Sure, here are the general steps to form an LLC by mail in the state of New Jersey, along with the mailing address to send the LLC documents:
- Choose a name for your LLC: Your LLC name must be unique and not already in use by another business in New Jersey. You can check the availability of your desired name using the Business Name Search tool on the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
- File a Certificate of Formation: You will need to file a Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services to create your LLC. You can download the form from the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website, complete it, and mail it to the address listed below.
- Pay the filing fee: The filing fee for a Certificate of Formation is $125, which can be paid by check or money order made payable to the Treasurer, State of New Jersey.
- Obtain an EIN: You will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax purposes. You can apply for an EIN online at the IRS website or by mail using Form SS-4.
- Register for taxes: Depending on your business activities, you may need to register for state and/or local taxes in New Jersey. You can find more information on the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services website.
- Obtain any necessary licenses and permits: Depending on your business activities, you may need to obtain additional licenses and permits from the state or local government. You can find more information on the New Jersey Business Portal website.
Mailing Address: You can mail your completed Certificate of Formation and filing fee to the following address:
New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services Corporate Filing Unit
PO Box 308
Trenton, NJ 08646
Please note that processing times for LLC filings by mail may vary, but typically take around 7-10 business days from receipt of the filing.
Overview of Steps & Time Involved in Getting an New Jersey LLC
Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in getting an LLC in New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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.
New Jersey Business Tips
If you’re looking to form an LLC in New Jersey, it’s crucial to understand the necessary steps and requirements. To begin, conduct a New Jersey LLC name search to ensure the availability of your desired business name.
Once you’ve confirmed its availability, you can proceed with preparing the essential formation documents, including registering your business name and drafting a New Jersey LLC operating agreement, which outlines the internal structure and management of your LLC.
Additionally, you have the option to be your own registered agent in New Jersey or enlist the services of a professional registered agent. It’s worth noting that the length of time to get an LLC in New Jersey can vary, but typically ranges from a few weeks to several months.
To streamline the process, it’s advisable to gather all required information and submit your filings promptly. Furthermore, obtaining a New Jersey Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is essential for tax purposes.
Detailed guides and online resources are available to help you navigate the steps involved, and various New Jersey LLC services and registered agents can assist you in forming your LLC efficiently and assist you with resources like deciding between an LLC vs S Corp in New Jersey.
Additionally, ensure compliance with any necessary business licenses in New Jersey, and consider the New Jersey LLC cost while budgeting for the formation process.
Lastly, should the need arise, understanding how to change your New Jersey registered agent the steps to dissolve an LLC in New Jersey is crucial for closing your business properly.
How Much Does An LLC Cost in New Jersey?
To form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in New Jersey, there is a fee of $125 for filing the Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. This is a one-time fee that must be paid at the time of filing.
In addition to the filing fee, there may be other costs associated with forming and operating an LLC in New Jersey. For example, you may need to obtain business licenses and permits, which can vary in cost depending on your industry and location. You may also need to pay annual fees to maintain your LLC’s good standing status with the state.
It’s important to keep in mind that while forming an LLC can involve some costs, it can also offer a number of benefits, such as limiting the personal liability of the LLC’s owners and providing flexibility in how the business is managed and taxed.
Is a Business License Needed for an LLC in New Jersey?
The ZenBusiness website explains it this way:
New Jersey doesn’t require every business to obtain a general business license. However, every business, no matter what type of entity it is, must file a form called NJ-REG if your company has a tax nexus with the state (i.e., files taxes). After you file this form, you will get a Business Registration Certificate from the state.
However, you can’t file the NJ-REG form unless and until you have formed a registered business entity in the state. So first, you must form your business as a corporation, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or other registered business entity. Some people erroneously refer to forming a business entity as getting a New Jersey state business license. That is not accurate.
Should I Hire an LLC Filing Service in New Jersey?
Whether or not to hire an LLC filing service in New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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.
