How to Start an LLC in New York

How much does it cost to start an LLC in New York?

It costs $200 to start an LLC in New York. After formation, you will also owe $300–$2,000+ (newspaper) + $50 Certificate of Publication for the Fulfill the Publication Requirement.

What are these fees for?

• The $200 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
• The $300–$2,000+ (newspaper) + $50 Certificate of Publication is for the Fulfill the Publication Requirement — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
• See Step 7 below for additional requirements and costs.

How long does it take to get an LLC in New York?

• Online filing: 7 business days (standard); 24-hour expedite (+$25); same-day (+$75)
• Mail filing: 7 business days (plus mail time)

You can file online or by mail. Expedited processing is available.

Steps to Form an LLC in New York

Step 1: Search Your LLC Name

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

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

Step 3: File Articles of Organization with Department of State

To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the New York Division of Corporations (Department of State). The filing fee is $200.

You can file online or by mail. Expedited processing is available.

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: Fulfill the Publication Requirement

• Publish in 2 newspapers (one daily, one weekly) for 6 consecutive weeks in the county where your LLC office is located
• After publication, file a Certificate of Publication with the NY Department of State ($50)
• If you don't complete this requirement, your LLC's ability to do business in New York can be suspended

Step 7: File Your Biennial Statement

First due: By the anniversary date 2 years 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

New York does not have a state general business license. However, depending on your business type and location, you may need local permits or professional licenses.

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.

New York has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their New York state tax return. New York City also has its own city income tax for those operating in NYC.

New York LLC FAQs