One of the major critical steps involved in starting your business is choosing the right structure. A limited liability company (LLC) is a popular choice for business owners in North Carolina who are looking for pass-through taxation and limited personal liability for the debts and liabilities of their business. So, how long does it really take to create an LLC in NC? Knowing the process and how long it takes can help, but only if you plan ahead to ensure you do not experience delays. This guide will outline all of the details you need, from how to start an LLC in North Carolina to what determines the timeline.
What Are the Steps for Forming an LLC?
In general, the process usually consists of seven primary steps:
How Long Does It Take?
After completing the steps above, you will wait for 5–7 working days to process your LLC formation documents via the North Carolina Secretary of State. But this timeline can be longer, as well, depending on whether you expedite the process, file online, or mail in your submission.
How Long It Takes to Process a Request:
Regardless of how the request is filed, whether it be online or through the mail, 5 to 7 business days is required for that processing. This is how long most entrepreneurs starting their own North Carolina LLC had to wait.
Faster Processing:
If you are short on time, you can opt for expedited processing and pay the extra charge. For $100, you can expedite your LLC documents within 24 hours. Additional same-day service is also available for $200 if you submit by noon on a weekday.
Although the average time frame is evident, several aspects could influence how long it takes to create an LLC in North Carolina:
Document Precision: Errors in your Articles of Association may lead to refusals, subsequently delaying. Make sure you go over everything before submitting.
Number of Applications: High volume times, like year-end or beginning of the season, have more filings which may mean longer processing times.
Filing Process: Online filing is usually faster than the mail-in options. Combining the ease of filing for free online and hourly error checking, it is used globally by organizations.
File Online: The quickest way to form an LLC is filing your Articles of Organization online at the North Carolina Secretary of State’s website.
Request Expedited Service: If time is an issue, expedite processing to have your LLC registered and approved faster.
Professional Services: If the process of how to start an LLC in North Carolina begins to feel too complicated, or you don't want to make any mistakes, using a service such as MyCorporation can go a long way. Their relatively full-service packages will take you from the availability check of a name to using them as a registered agent.
Naming Your LLC in North Carolina
If your LLC will not operate under its legal name (you plan to use a name other than the one that is listed on your Articles of Organization), you need to file for DBA in North Carolina. DBA (Doing Business As) registration allows your business to operate under a different name. It is a very straightforward process as simple as completing and submitting an appropriate form with the filing fee to the county in which your business operates. This step is separate from creating an LLC, but if this applies to you, you need to do so.
The process to form an LLC in North Carolina is fairly simple and can be completed in 5 to 7 business days. But many small business owners need to get their business started faster, so expedited processing or utilizing professional services can be a good option. This guide on how to start an LLC in North Carolina with a step-by-step process will help you get started and also know about filing a DBA in North Carolina if necessary, so that your business launch is smooth.
