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Basic
$199
Fees for filing legal documents to register or maintain a business.
02 weeks processing
Agent fee
Registered Address
Document filing with the Secretary of State
Standard
$499
Fees for filing legal documents to register or maintain a business.
05 days processing
Includes everything in basic package
Comprehensive name check
Preparation of Articles of Incorporation
Lifetime customer support (phone & email)
Federal Tax ID (EIN) Obtainment Service
Premium
$599
Fees for filing legal documents to register or maintain a business.
01 day processing
Includes everything in standard package
2 hours of free tax consultation
Key Points of Washington LLCs
No State Income Tax
Washington does not impose personal or corporate income tax. LLCs enjoy pass-through taxation and only pay the state’s Business & Occupation (B&O) tax based on gross receipts.
Flexible Business Structure
Washington LLCs support both member-managed and manager-managed models. The operating agreement allows owners to customize roles, responsibilities, and profit-sharing.
Simple Formation and Compliance
The state offers an efficient online filing system, no annual franchise tax, and straightforward reporting requirements—making it ideal for small and growing businesses.
Understanding Washington LLCs
A Washington LLC combines the liability protection of a corporation with the operational flexibility of a partnership, making it a strong choice for entrepreneurs and small businesses. It’s known for having no state income tax and a straightforward formation process.
What is a Washington LLC?
A Washington LLC provides limited liability protection and flexible internal management. Members are generally not personally responsible for company debts, and the LLC can be managed by members or appointed managers as defined in an operating agreement.
A Washington LLC offers several benefits, including:
No state income tax, strong asset protection, customizable governance, and a streamlined setup process. LLC owners benefit from reduced regulatory burdens and favorable treatment under Washington law.
Why Choose an LLC in Washington?
Forming an LLC in Washington offers personal liability protection, tax efficiency, and business credibility in a state that does not impose personal or corporate income tax. Its business-friendly environment and simple administrative requirements make it ideal for startups and small business owners.
Key Benefits Include:
Privacy Protection
Predictable Taxes
No Double Taxation
Legal Environment
Business Credibility
Clear Guidelines
Pros and Cons of an LLC in Washington
Starting a Washington LLC: Benefits
A Washington LLC shields members from personal liability, allows flexible management structures, and has no residency restrictions. It is easy to form and offers simplicity for entrepreneurs seeking separation between personal and business assets.
Taxation of a Washington LLC
Washington does not impose a state personal or corporate income tax. LLCs benefit from federal pass-through taxation and are instead subject to the state’s Business & Occupation (B&O) tax, which applies to gross revenue, regardless of profit.
Starting a Washington LLC: Drawbacks
Washington LLCs must file annual reports and pay renewal fees. While income tax is not required, the B&O tax applies even to low-margin businesses. Also, series LLCs are not recognized, and disclosure of members/managers is required in the Annual Report, which becomes part of the public record.
Who Can Form an LLC in Washington?
Any individual or legal entity regardless of residency can form an LLC in Washington with one or more members.
Types of LLCs in Washington
Domestic LLC (Washington-based LLC)
A domestic LLC is formed under Washington law and conducts business within the state, providing limited liability protection and flexible governance under Chapter 25.15 RCW.
Foreign LLC (Out-of-state LLC registering in Washington)
A foreign LLC is one formed in another state or jurisdiction that wants to operate in Washington. It must file a Foreign Registration Statement with the Secretary of State and appoint a registered agent in Washington.
Professional LLC (PLLC)
Washington allows PLLCs for licensed service providers under RCW 18.100 (in addition to LLC law), requiring that members hold the relevant professional licenses.
How to Start an LLC in Washington
Choose a Business Name
Select a unique name that includes "LLC" or "L.L.C." and ensure it’s distinguishable from existing entities in Washington. Use the Secretary of State’s name search tool to verify availability.
Appoint a Registered Agent
Designate a registered agent to accept legal documents. This can be an individual or a registered service company with a physical address in Washington.
File the Articles of Organization
Submit Form LLC to the Washington Secretary of State, providing LLC name, principal office address, and registered agent details.
Create an Operating Agreement
Though not required, it’s recommended to draft an Operating Agreement outlining ownership, governance, and profit distribution to reinforce liability protection and support tax compliance.
Washington LLC Requirements
Age and Residency
Number of Members
Management Structure
Registered Agent and Office
Name Compliance
Washington LLC Application
To start an LLC in Washington, the key step is filing the Certificate of Formation with the Washington Secretary of State. This officially establishes your business as a legal entity under state law.
Required Information
- LLC name (must contain “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company”)
- Registered agent’s name and physical Washington address
- Principal business address (P.O. Boxes are accepted for mailing address but not for the registered agent)
- Duration of the LLC (perpetual or specific term)
- Whether the LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed
- Name and address of the person executing the filing
The Certificate of Formation must include:
Filing Options
- Online: File through the Washington Corporations and Charities Filing System, which provides the fastest approval time.
- By Mail: Send completed Certificate of Formation with fee to: Secretary of State, Corporations Division, P.O. Box 40234, Olympia, WA 98504-0234
- In Person: Deliver to 801 Capitol Way S, Olympia, WA 98501. Expedited service available for an additional fee.
Post-Filing Requirements
- Initial Report Must be filed within 120 days of formation, either online or by paper form.
- Operating Agreement: Not required to be filed with the state, but strongly recommended for internal governance.
- Business License: All LLCs must obtain a Washington State Business License by registering with the Department of Revenue (DOR)
- Foreign LLCs: Must file a Foreign Registration Statement, appoint a Washington-registered agent, and provide a Certificate of Existence from their home state.
Washington LLC Taxation
No State Income Tax
Washington does not impose a personal or corporate income tax. LLC members only report federal income, and the state does not tax LLC income at the entity or individual level.
Excise Taxes
LLCs engaging in retail, wholesale, or service-based activities may also be subject to excise taxes. These are administered by the Washington Department of Revenue.
Business & Occupation (B&O) Tax
Washington LLCs are subject to the state’s Business & Occupation (B&O) tax, which is based on gross revenue—not net income. The rate depends on the type of business activity.
Sales and Use Tax
LLCs that sell goods or taxable services must collect sales tax from customers. The combined rate varies by location, and use tax applies to goods purchased out-of-state but used in Washington.
Washington LLC Annual Filing
What to File
LLCs must file an Annual Report that includes the business name, registered agent information, principal office address, and details of governors (members or managers).
Filing Deadlines
Due each year by the end of the LLC’s formation anniversary month. The report can be filed online through the Secretary of State's system.
Penalties & Consequences
Failure to file the Annual Report can lead to administrative dissolution of the LLC and loss of liability protection. Reinstatement may require additional fees and filings.
Expanding Your Washington LLC
As your business grows, you may expand your Washington LLC into other states. This requires registering as a foreign LLC in each state where you plan to operate and complying with local rules.
Registering a Foreign LLC in Washington
If your LLC was formed in another state but intends to do business in Washington, you must file a Foreign Registration Statement with the Washington Secretary of State, provide a Certificate of Existence from the home state, and appoint a Washington-based registered agent.
Doing Business in Other States
To expand outside of Washington, your LLC must register as a foreign LLC in each target state. This typically involves filing formation documents, appointing a local registered agent, and complying with that state's tax and business regulations.
Find The Right State To
Form An LLC
Every state has different rules, costs, and considerations for LLC formation.
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Doing Business in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most states require you to have a registered agent to handle legal documents and notices during business hours.
While not always required by law, having an operating agreement is a smart move to outline your LLC’s rules and avoid disputes down the road.
An EIN is a federal tax ID; most LLCs need one to open a business bank account, file taxes, or hire employees.