How to Start an LLC in Colorado
To start an LLC in Colorado, file Articles of Organization with the Colorado Secretary of State. This costs $50 and takes Same day to 1 business day for online approval.
There are 6 steps to start an LLC in Colorado:
- 1Choose an LLC Name
- 2Select a Registered Agent
- 3File Articles of Organization
- 4Create an Operating Agreement
- 5Get an EIN from the IRS
- 6File Your Periodic Report
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Colorado?
It costs $50 to start an LLC in Colorado. After formation, you will also owe $10/year for the File Your Periodic Report.
What are these fees for?
- The $50 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
- The $10/year is for the File Your Periodic Report — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Colorado?
- Online filing: Same day to 1 business day
- Mail filing: 1–2 weeks
Online filing is highly recommended — Colorado processes online filings same day or next business day.
Steps to Form an LLC in Colorado
Step 1: Search Your LLC Name
Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Colorado. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.
Colorado business name search →
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
A Registered Agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your LLC. Colorado requires your Registered Agent to have a physical street address in the state — PO Boxes are not allowed. Your options:
- Yourself (if you have a physical address in Colorado)
- A friend or family member who lives in Colorado
- A professional Registered Agent service
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with Secretary of State
To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Colorado Secretary of State. The filing fee is $50.
Online filing is highly recommended — Colorado processes online filings same day or next business day.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement is an internal document that shows who owns the LLC and how it will be run. You do not need to file it with the state or the IRS — just keep it with your business records. All LLCs should have one, even single-member LLCs.
Step 5: Get an EIN from the IRS
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS and is needed to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.
- US residents with an SSN: Apply online at IRS.gov (takes ~15 minutes, free)
- Non-US residents without an SSN: Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 (takes 1–3 months)
Step 6: File Your Periodic Report
First due: During the anniversary month of the year after formation
After Your LLC Is Approved
Open a business bank account
Keep business and personal finances separate to maintain liability protection. You will need your EIN and your stamped/approved Articles of Organization to open an account.
Get business licenses and permits
Colorado does not have a state general business license. Check with your city or county for local requirements.
Understand your tax obligations
LLCs don't pay federal income tax directly. Profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal federal tax returns.
Colorado has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their Colorado state tax return.
Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.