Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the most popular ways to start a business in the United States. It provides legal protection, tax flexibility, and credibility for business owners. But if you’re getting ready to launch, you might be wondering: how long does it take to form an LLC?
The answer depends on several factors—including your state’s processing speed, how you file, and whether you provide complete and accurate information from the start. This guide will walk you through the typical timeline and help you understand what to expect.
Average Time to Form an LLC
On average, it takes 7 to 10 business days to form an LLC if you’re filing online through your state’s Secretary of State office. However, some states offer instant or 24-hour processing, while others may take 2 to 4 weeks.
Here’s a breakdown of the major steps involved and how long each may take.
Step-by-Step Timeline to Form an LLC
1. Choosing a Name and Checking Availability (1 Day)
You’ll need to choose a unique LLC name that complies with your state’s naming rules and is not already in use. Most states offer an online business name search tool.
✅ Tip: Use your Secretary of State’s website to check name availability. For example, California Name Search.
2. Preparing and Filing Articles of Organization (1–3 Days)
You must file your LLC formation documents—usually called Articles of Organization—with the state. You can do this online or by mail. Online filing is typically faster.
3. State Processing Time (Varies by State)
Here’s a rough idea of how long some states take:
- Delaware: Same-day or 24-hour processing (with expedited fee)
- Florida: 1–3 business days
- California: 5–10 business days
- New York: Up to 2 weeks
- Texas: 7–10 business days
Check your state’s current timeline here: U.S. State Government Directory.
4. Getting an EIN from the IRS (Same Day)
Once your LLC is approved, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. You can apply online and get it instantly via IRS EIN Application.
5. Creating an Operating Agreement (Optional but Recommended) (1 Day)
This internal document outlines how your LLC will be managed. It’s not required in all states, but it’s a smart move—especially if your LLC has multiple members.
6. Opening a Business Bank Account (1–3 Days)
After you have your LLC approval and EIN, you can open a business bank account, which may take a day or more depending on the bank.
Can You Speed Up the Process?
Yes. Most states offer expedited processing options for an additional fee. Some even allow same-day or 1-hour filing. Using an online formation service can also streamline the process and reduce delays due to errors.
Common Delays to Avoid
- Incorrect or incomplete filings
- Using an unavailable business name
- Mail filing instead of online
- Delays in payment or document signatures
Final Thoughts
So, how long does an LLC take? If you’re filing online and everything goes smoothly, you can expect your LLC to be formed within a few business days to two weeks. The timeline varies by state, so always check the latest processing times on your state’s official website.
By preparing your documents in advance and using expedited options if needed, you can speed up the process and launch your business sooner.