How to form an LLC in Nevada: Our thorough guide to forming an NV limited liability company. Understand each step from selecting a unique business name, filing the Articles of Organization, and appointing a Registered Agent, to securing an EIN.
Familiarize yourself with Nevada-specific rules to kickstart your business in Nevada successfully.
Form an LLC in Nevada for $0 + state fee
To form an LLC in Nevada for free + state fee, we have listed 3 options to consider:Â
You can go online and visit the Nevada Secretary of State’s website and do it yourself or you can use the ‘free’ service from Incfile or ZenBusiness.
- DIYÂ $0 + state fee
- Bizee $0 + state fee
- ZenBusiness $0 + state fee
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- Northwest $39 + state fee ‘Privacy by Default’
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How to Form an LLC in Nevada for $0 (DIY Summary)
Here’s a brief step-by-step guide to help you through the DIY process, along with relevant links to official resources:
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC
The first step in forming an LLC in Nevada is selecting a unique and appropriate name for your company.
The name must not be similar to any existing business entities in the state. To check name availability, you can visit the Nevada Secretary of State’s SilverFlume Business Portal.
It is advisable to choose a name that reflects your business and complies with legal requirements.
Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
Every Nevada LLC must have a registered agent who will receive legal documents on behalf of the company.
The registered agent can be an individual residing in Nevada or a registered business entity authorized to conduct business in the state.
It is important to select a reliable and trustworthy registered agent to ensure prompt delivery of important legal correspondence.
Step 3: File Articles of Organization
The next step to form an llc in nevada is to file the Articles of Organization with the Nevada Secretary of State.
This document officially establishes your LLC and includes essential details such as the company name, address, registered agent information, and the purpose of the business.
You can file the Articles of Organization online through the SilverFlume Business Portal or submit a paper filing by mail.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
While not legally required, it is highly recommended to create an Operating Agreement for your LLC.
This document outlines the ownership structure, management responsibilities, and operating procedures of the company.
It helps establish clear guidelines for decision-making, profit distribution, and dispute resolution among members.
Consulting with an attorney can be helpful in drafting an effective Operating Agreement.
Step 5: Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific permits and licenses to operate legally in Nevada.
The type of licenses required can vary based on industry and location.
To determine the necessary permits, you can visit the Nevada SilverFlume Business Portal or consult with the local government agencies.
Step 6: File Annual Reports
LLCs in Nevada are required to file annual reports with the Secretary of State’s office.
This report includes updated information about your LLC, such as the company’s address, members’ details, and registered agent information.
The annual report must be filed by the last day of the anniversary month of your LLC’s formation.
Failure to file the report may result in penalties or administrative dissolution of the LLC.
Step 7: Maintain Good Standing
To maintain your LLC’s good standing, it is important to comply with all ongoing obligations, such as filing annual reports, paying applicable fees, and maintaining accurate records.
It is also crucial to keep your business and personal finances separate and adhere to any other legal requirements imposed by the state of Nevada.
Nevada LLC: Definitions
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): A legal business structure that provides limited liability protection to its owners (members) while allowing for flexible management and pass-through taxation.
- Articles of Organization: The official document filed with the Nevada Secretary of State to create an LLC. It includes essential information such as the LLC’s name, purpose, registered agent, and management structure.
- Registered Agent: An individual or entity designated to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the LLC. The registered agent must have a physical address in Nevada and be available during business hours.
- Operating Agreement: A written agreement that outlines the internal workings and management structure of the LLC. It typically includes details such as member responsibilities, voting rights, profit distribution, and decision-making processes.
- Nevada Secretary of State: The government agency responsible for overseeing business entities, including LLCs, in the state of Nevada. They handle LLC formation filings, maintain business records, and provide information on business regulations.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN): Also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, an EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to identify a business entity for tax purposes. It is required for LLCs with employees or certain tax filings.
- Business License: A permit or authorization required by the state, county, or city to legally operate a business. LLCs in Nevada may need to obtain specific licenses or permits depending on the nature of their activities or industry.
- Annual List: An annual filing requirement for Nevada LLCs, also known as the Annual List of Managers or Members. This filing updates the state with the current contact information of the LLC’s managers or members.
- Series LLC: A specialized type of LLC available in Nevada that allows for the creation of individual “series” within the LLC, each with separate assets, liabilities, and members. This structure provides added asset protection and operational flexibility.
- Dissolution: The formal process of terminating an LLC’s existence. Dissolution may occur voluntarily by filing articles of dissolution or involuntarily through court order or administrative action.
Remember to consult with legal professionals or experts familiar with Nevada’s specific laws and regulations for accurate and up-to-date information regarding forming an LLC in Nevada.
Extended Version
Do you plan to start a business in Nevada? An LLC is a great option for business structures that offer many benefits. This guide will help you to set up your LLC in Nevada.
Before starting an LLC in Nevada
While it may seem tempting to just file your documents right away, there are important details you need to remember. These are the essential steps to follow before you set up an LLC.
If you want to use an LLC formation service, visit our list of the best LLC services in Nevada.
This page will provide you with all the necessary steps to look up an LLC in Nevada, draft a Nevada LLC operating agreement, and answer questions like, can I be my own registered agent in Nevada? and how long does it take to get a Nevada LLC?.
Register Your LLC Business Name
It’s a good idea not to submit your documents without verifying that your LLC business name is available. SilverFlume is Nevada’s business portal website. It offers a search for business entities to assist you in checking.
You can then choose to reserve a business name online, or complete the Name reservation request form to submit later.
You should include the following: “Limited liability company”, “L.L.C.,” or a related abbreviation like “LLC,” L.L.C.,” or “LC,” in your business’s name.
Get a web domain and set up social media
You should create a website for your LLC if you don’t already have one. Once you have set up your Nevada LLC, it is important to spread the word about it.
A website domain is essential for customers and you can create a social media profile. This is a great way to establish trust and be a thought leader in your industry.
Choose a Registered Agent
All LLCs and corporations in Nevada require a registered agent. Your agent will receive and handle important legal documents for your LLC.
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By creating an office, LLC members can appoint someone. Just make sure that the person has a physical address in the state.
You can hire someone, or a company, to fill the role of a registered agent if no one is associated with the LLC.
You can find service options starting at $35 or up to $300. You should research the potential agent and compare their prices before you hire anyone.
Submitting Your Nevada LLC Documents
After everything is in order, companies can get a Nevada LLC formation packet from the Secretary of State’s website. Individuals should file an Article of Organization.
At the time of writing this article, Chapter 86 was the most common form of LLC in Nevada. Nevada also offers a Chapter 89 Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC). However, it is not mandatory.
If your LLC does not qualify for online filing you can submit the completed documents to copies@sos.nv.gov, or mail them to,
202 North Carson Street
Carson City, Nevada 89701-4201.
For LLC formation, both domestic and foreign entities will be charged $75.
If you want to speed up the process, you can pay a $125 expedite fee for 24 hours.
A state business license is required for $200. An initial list of managers and managing members must be filed for $150.
The full fee schedule can be found.
Things to Do after establishing your LLC in Nevada
Establishing your Nevada LLC is the first step. Maintaining your business in good standing and continuing to grow it is the second. Additional details will be covered in the following sections.
Register for an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Most businesses require an EIN. Single-member LLCs are a notable exception. These companies can still get by with the owner’s Social Security number. EINs are a better alternative to SSNs as they offer greater privacy and security. EINs can be obtained free of charge on The IRS Website.
Send an annual list
Although LLCs in Nevada don’t have to pay state taxes, they must file an annual report. This is known as an “annual list”. You can also do the filing online.
Annual list filing fees are $150 Late submissions incur an additional $75 fee. For an additional $200 per calendar year, you can renew your business license via this link.
Create an LLC Operating Agreement
While not a requirement, it is a good idea to create an LLC operating agreement for your Nevada LLC.
It provides a solid foundation for your LLC’s brand and a guideline for the day to how you plan to run it.
An operating agreement gives legitimacy to your LLC and helps maintain its good standing.
Dissolving Your Nevada LLC
You may decide to dissolve your LLC here in Nevada and allow for domestication in another state. Send your Articles of Dissolution with a $100 fee.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
What is an LLC?
A limited liability company combines the flexibility and ease of a sole proprietorship or partnership structure with the greater risk protection offered by a corporate structure.
LLC owners, also known as “members”, have limited liability. This means that their personal liability to the company is limited to what they have invested.
It does not cover losses or debts beyond that amount.
Members of an LLC are subject to taxes by default. This is the same as for owners of a general partnership or sole proprietorship. This structure is commonly referred to as a “pass-through” tax structure.
If the LLC meets certain criteria, it can choose to be taxed either as a C corporation (C-corp) or as an S corporation (S-corp).
Small business owners prefer LLCs because of their simplicity and flexibility.
What is the cost of a Nevada LLC?
Filing for an LLC is $75. A $125 expedited fee is charged for each hour of filing an LLC.
The setup fees include the annual list (150 USD) and the business license (200 USD).
Are foreign entities required to pay more for LLC formations in Nevada than domestic entities?
Foreign and domestic businesses are both subject to the same $75/$125 filing fee
What is the difference between an LLC and a DBA?
After completing the necessary paperwork, an LLC (or limited liability company) is allowed to operate in a specific state.
DBAs are fictitious names under which a person, or business, can operate.
Not to be overlooked is the fact that DBAs must be filed separately with the state.
What are the advantages of forming an LLC in Nevada
Nevada does not have an income or corporate tax. For businesses that gross more than $4,000,000 per year, however, the state has commerce taxes.
