How to Start an LLC in Hawaii

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Hawaii?

It costs $50 to start an LLC in Hawaii. After formation, you will also owe $15/year for the File Your Annual Report.

What are these fees for?

• The $50 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
• The $15/year is for the File Your Annual Report — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.

How long does it take to get an LLC in Hawaii?

• Online filing: 3–5 business days
• Mail filing: 2–3 weeks

You can file online or by mail with the Hawaii DCCA.

Steps to Form an LLC in Hawaii

Step 1: Search Your LLC Name

Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Hawaii. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.

Hawaii 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. Hawaii 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 Hawaii)
• A friend or family member who lives in Hawaii
• A professional Registered Agent service

Step 3: File Articles of Organization with DCCA

To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA). The filing fee is $50.

You can file online or by mail with the Hawaii DCCA.

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 Annual Report

First due: By the anniversary date in 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

Hawaii requires a General Excise Tax (GET) license from the Department of Taxation. This is required for virtually all businesses operating in Hawaii. The GET rate is generally 4% on gross business income.

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.

Hawaii has a state income tax and a General Excise Tax (GET). LLC members report profits on their Hawaii state tax return, and the LLC may also owe GET on gross income.

Hawaii LLC FAQs