How to Start an LLC

Wyoming LLC

Starting an LLC in Wyoming is quick and easy. Follow our simple steps to form your LLC today!

Name Your LLC

Picking a name for your LLC can be one of the most challenging and inspiring actions you take as you start your LLC. Do some research beforehand to make sure the name you chose is best suited for your business venture. Below are some important guidelines:

  • Make sure the name isn't already taken by doing a name search
  • If you plan on having a website, check that the domain isn't taken
  • Follow the LLC naming guidelines detailed below

LLC naming guidelines

Your entity name must contain the words Limited Liability Company or the abbreviation L.L.C. or LLC. Also the name cannot already be used by any registered business entity in the state.

There are certain words which are restricted or prohibited from the use of names in the LLC. Restricted words are generally words which require additional appropriate paperwork and licensed individuals to be part of the LLC, such as Banc, Bank, Banque, Doctor, Engineer etc. Prohibited words are generally any words that would confuse the name of your LLC with a federal or state agency e.g. FBI, Secret Service, Treasury etc.

Registered Agent

A registered agent is a person or business nominated by your company to officially receive and send papers on your behalf. Such papers include service of process of legal action, and state filings.

Before filing the articles of organization, a company must nominate a registered agent for the company. All limited liability companies doing business in Wyoming must have a registered agent with a Wyoming State address. The registered agent must be a resident of Wyoming or a corporation authorized to transact business in Wyoming. A company may not act as its own registered agent, but you may elect an individual within the company.

It is highly recommended to use a registered agent service. Click here to learn why.

Recommended: This registered agent service provides a great package.

Filing the Articles of Organization

Download the Articles of Organization and “Consent to Appointment” by a Registered Agent form (included) and then file both with the Secretary of State. The form makes no provision to elect for a Flexible LLC status which is required in Wyoming to form a single member LLC. Therefore if you are planning to form a single member LLC you cannot use this form.

Articles of Organization - Wyoming LLC

Mail filings to:

Wyoming Secretary of State
State Capitol Building, Room 110
200 West 24th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020

A nonrefundable fee of $100 is required upon submission of the Articles of Organization, payable to Wyoming Secretary of State.

If you require assistance in filing your paperwork, our partner company provides a great LLC formation package, which includes, filing the articles of organization, a custom operating agreement, and registered agent service.

Operating Agreement

An operating agreement is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating procedures of your LLC. This agreement allows you to form financial/working relationships with co-owners into an established system suitable to your business. It is not required to form an LLC in Wyoming, but is good practice to have one.

Recommended: We provide a free operating agreement however we recommend getting one professional drafted by a lawyer, especially if you are starting a multi-member LLC.

After Filing

EIN

What is an EIN?

The Employer Identification Number (EIN), or Federal Tax Identification Number, is used to identify a business entity. It is essentially a social security number for the company.

Why Do I Need An EIN?

An EIN is required for the following:

  • To open a bank account for the company
  • For federal and state tax purposes
  • To hire employees for the company

Where Do I Get an EIN?

An EIN is obtained from the IRS free of charge. A business owner obtains an EIN after they form their business.

State Tax Registration

There are two reasons why you would have to register for taxes:

  • you have employees
  • you are selling a physical product that requires sales tax within your state

Determine your state's tax obligations at SBA.gov

Business Licenses

While plying your trade, you may be required by the state to obtain a business license and/or permit. Regulations vary by industry, so it is important to acquire the correct license/permit.

The U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) provides a free, comprehensive site for guiding businesses through federal, state, and local issues. Your local Chamber of Commerce is also a good resource regarding local licenses and permits.

The details of business licenses vary from state to state. That said, most state licensing services have online forms. Some jurisdictions require paper applications for certain categories of business to be mailed or delivered in person.

Fees for business licenses will vary depending on what sort of license you are seeking to obtain.

Local Permits

So, you’ve registered your business, and it’s time to set up shop. First, though, you need to learn the local regulations for setting up that shop. For example: restaurants need health permits, building permits, signage permits, and the like, all of which vary either by city or state. The U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) provides resources and information on some of the permits that may be required for a business based on their locality and the nature of their business.

Employer Requirements

Once a business decides to hire employees, they are bound to maintain certain legal requirements, such as:

  • make sure the potential employee is elgible to work in the US
  • report the employee is reported as a "new hire" to the state
  • obtain workers' comp insurance for employees
  • withhold income taxes
  • print compliance posters and place in conspicuous location
  • make sure to pay employees at specific increments as required by the state

Click here to read more about these requirements.