Registering a business in Indiana comes with initial fees and annual reports that are comparatively low. The state offers a competitive cost structure, including affordable real estate, utilities, and labor costs.
Types of Business Entities
Two common types of business entities in Indiana are:
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)
- Incorporated Company (Inc.)
A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure and does not need to be registered with the Secretary of State.
LLC Registration and Costs
The cost to file Articles of Organization for an Indiana LLC online is $95. Optional LLC formation services include additional fees starting from $29.
To register a foreign LLC in Indiana, the costs are $105 online or $125 by mail. These entities may also need industry and area-specific permits and licenses to operate within Indiana.
Registered Agent Services
Choosing a registered agent service or an Indiana resident to receive tax forms and legal correspondence is a requirement for doing business in the state. Annual registered agent fees range from $50 to over $300.
Business Licensing and Certificates
To legally operate and collect sales tax for your Indiana LLC or other business entity, you will need the Registered Retail Merchant Certificate. The sales tax license costs $25, while a liquor license can exceed $2,000 and requires 10-12 weeks for processing. Other business licenses are typically issued within days or a week. Some industries might require additional licenses.
Indiana’s central location provides easy access to markets, further enhancing the benefits of registering a business in the state.