How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC?

Limited liability companies (LLCs) are one of the most popular business entities in the country. They offer strong asset protections, major tax savings, and flexible management structures.

In addition, LLCs are relatively easy to form. They require less paperwork than other entities like Corporations. Although the steps vary from one state to another, the process is straightforward. But how long does it take to get an LLC?

Below, we’ll explain the factors that affect the timeline of forming an LLC and provide tips on how to speed up the process and avoid common pitfalls.

How Long Does It Take to Get An LLC?

On average, LLC formation takes between 7 to 10 days. Some states process and approve formation documents in one day, while others take 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the filings they’re handling.

It’s important to note that these timelines are only estimates and can vary depending on other factors. 

Factors that Affect Your LLC Formation’s Timeline

There are four factors that could affect how long it takes you to establish an LLC:

Formation State

States have varying processing and approval times. Processing time refers to the time it takes for the state to review your articles of organization, while approval time is how long it takes them to approve an LLC.

For instance, if your state’s processing time for LLC formation documents is 2 weeks, your LLC documents will be approved within 3 to 4 weeks.

Method of Filing

You can file your formation documents in two ways: online or via mail. 

Generally, online filings are much faster than mail filings. Once you submit your documents online, the state can download and approve them almost immediately. There’s no extra transit time you’ll have to account for.

That said, here’s a breakdown of each state’s processing and approval times for online and mail filings:

*The timeline for mail filings includes mail time. 

Additional Permits and Licenses

Depending on the nature of your business and its industry, you may have to obtain additional permits and licenses to start your operations. The timeline for these additional requirements varies widely depending on the issuing agency. It could take you days to several months to get them. 

Tips to Speed Up Your LLC Formation

To expedite your LLC formation process, follow these tips:

Check Your Formation Documents

Before you file your formation documents, check to see if they’re accurate. Small errors, like typos and incorrect dates, can delay your process and even lead to rejection. Double-check everything before you submit it.

File Online

Since online filing is the fastest method to establish your LLC, file your documents online. States like Alabama, Kentucky, and Minnesota offer same-day processing for online filings, which means your LLC could get approved in one day. 

Consider Hiring A Professional

Establishing an LLC by yourself can help reduce your startup costs, but this approach typically takes longer. You must research your state’s regulations, gather all the paperwork you must complete, and fill them out individually.

But if you work with a business formation specialist, they will handle all the paperwork and filing on your behalf. Business formation specialists are adept with state regulations. They will ensure your formation documents are filed properly and on time.

While working with a business formation specialist may incur additional costs, it can significantly speed up the processing and approval time of your LLC filing.

Work With A Business Formation Specialist Today

Worried about the cost of working with an experienced business formation specialist? Inc. Authority offers free comprehensive business formation services to business owners nationwide!

At Inc. Authority, we know how expensive LLC formation can be. So, to help entrepreneurs like you, we’ve made our LLC formation services free. Our team of business formation specialists will help you form your LLC with no overhead fees or other additional charges. This way, you only have to pay your state’s filing fees.

Work with an experienced business formation specialist today and visit Inc. Authority’s website here.