The cost to start an LLC (limited liability company) online in Washington D.C. is $99. This fee is paid to the Washington D.C. Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection when filing the LLC’s Articles of Organization.
Use our free guide to form an LLC in Washington D.C. yourself. Or use a professional service: Northwest ($29 + State Fees).
A registered agent for a Washington D.C. LLC acts as the primary contact, receiving legal documents and notices.
An LLC in Washington D.C. can operate under a trade name, often called a DBA (doing business as) name.
LLCs in Washington D.C. file a biennial report with a $300 fee to keep the district updated.
Forming an LLC is the best choice for most small businesses as it can protect personal assets and help grow the business.
Yes, a Washington DC LLC needs an EIN (Employer Identification Number) to open a bank account, file taxes, etc.
You cannot use words like “bank” or “insurance” for your DC LLC without approval.
To keep your LLC operating legally you must stay in compliance with state requirements.
The cost for a foreign LLC in DC is $220.
Additional Costs and Filing Times
Table: Optional costs for a DC LLC
- Name Reservation: $50
- Trade Name: $55
It takes:
- ~3-4 weeks by mail
- ~10 days online
There isn’t a requirement in DC for sole proprietors to get a general business license. Depending on your business, you may need other licenses and/or permits.
All registered business entities are required to have a DC registered agent and office.
Steps to Forming an LLC
- Pick the name.
- Get an agent.
- File for Certificate of Formation.
- Get other documents like an Operating Agreement.
- Take care of tax requirements.
- Get an EIN number.
Usually, filing yourself online is the fastest way.
DC issues a Basic Business License many businesses need, including restaurants, retail, contractors, rental properties, and more.
Businesses like accounting, funeral homes, real estate appraisers need an industry-specific license.
LLC Filing Fees and Timeframes
- Certificate of Formation: Up to $200
- EIN: No charge
- Annual report fee: $60
It costs $500 for an LLC in Massachusetts, the most expensive state. Kentucky only charges $40, the cheapest state. The average nationally is $122.
The first step towards choosing a name for your Columbia LLC would be to confirm that the name is available.
To start an LLC in Washington DC, follow these steps:
- Appoint a registered agent.
- Choose a business name.
- File Articles of Organization with the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs. ($220 filing fee)
The standard processing time for an LLC is around 2 to 3 weeks. However, with the right preparation and expedited filing options, it could be possible to have your LLC formed within 7-10 days.