How to Start an LLC in Washington DC
To start an LLC in Washington DC, file Articles of Organization with the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). This costs $220 and takes 15 business days (standard); expedited available for online approval.
Washington DC requires all businesses to obtain a Basic Business License (BBL) from the DCRA. This is a local requirement specific to operating in the District and is separate from the LLC formation.
There are 6 steps to start an LLC in Washington DC:
- 1Choose an LLC Name
- 2Select a Registered Agent
- 3File Articles of Organization
- 4Create an Operating Agreement
- 5Get an EIN from the IRS
- 6File Your Biennial Report
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Washington DC?
It costs $220 to start an LLC in Washington DC. After formation, you will also owe $300 every 2 years for the File Your Biennial Report.
What are these fees for?
- The $220 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
- The $300 every 2 years is for the File Your Biennial Report — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Washington DC?
- Online filing: 15 business days (standard); expedited available
- Mail filing: 3–4 weeks
You can file online or by mail with the DC DCRA. Standard processing takes about 15 business days; expedited options are available.
Steps to Form an LLC in Washington DC
Step 1: Search Your LLC Name
Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Washington DC. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.
Washington DC 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. Washington DC 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 Washington DC)
- A friend or family member who lives in Washington DC
- A professional Registered Agent service
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with DCRA
To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). The filing fee is $220.
You can file online or by mail with the DC DCRA. Standard processing takes about 15 business days; expedited options are 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: File Your Biennial Report
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
Washington DC requires all businesses to obtain a Basic Business License (BBL) from the DCRA. The fee depends on your business type and activity.
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.
Washington DC has its own local income tax, which functions like a state income tax. LLC members report DC-sourced income on their DC tax return.
Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.