Protect your assets and grow your business with a Washington Limited Liability Company (LLC).

LLC's enjoy both the simplified pass through taxation of partnerships and the limited liability of corporations. An LLC has fewer formalities after formation than a corporation--meaning you can focus on your business and not on paperwork.

Protect your personal assets from lawsuits and judgments against your business by forming a Washington LLC. If you neglect to incorporate your business, you could be held personally liable for business debts and lawsuits. Find out about forming a legal Washington Limited Liability Company and start your business off on the right track.

Forming an LLC in Washington requires filing Articles of Organization with the Washington Secretary of State office.

LLC Name Requirements

Must contain the words "Limited Liability Company," the words "Limited Liability" and abbreviation "Co.," or the abbreviation "L.L.C." or "LLC"

Must not contain any of the words or phrases:"Bank," "banking," "banker," "trust," "cooperative," "partnership," "corporation," "incorporated," or the abbreviations "corp.," "ltd.," or "inc.," or "LP," "L.P.," "LLP," "L.L.P.," or any combination of the words "industrial" and "loan," or any combination of any two or more of the words "building," "savings," "loan," "home," "association," and "society," or any other words or phrases prohibited by any statute of this state

License Requirements

Washington requires most businesses to obtain a license and pay a fee if operating in the state. Please check with the state to make sure your business is complying with the license requirements for your particular profession.

Limited liability companies must annually pay a license fee and file a list of members and managers.

Registered Agent

All limited liability companies doing business in Washington must have a registered agent with a Washington State address. The registered agent may be an individual or any other organization registered by the Corporations Division to do business in Washington.

Washington LLC Filing Fees

As of September, 2005, the filing fee for a Washington Limited Liability Company is $175. This does not include the cost of any additional services. Amendments to LLC filings are $30.