How to Start an LLC in Missouri

Key Benefits

1

Personal Asset Protection

An LLC or 'limited liability company' is an American business form that gives the owners some legal protection by not holding them personally responsible for the legal obligations or debts of the company.

2

Tax Flexibility

LLCs offer pass-through taxation by default, meaning business income passes through to your personal tax return, avoiding double taxation while providing options for how you're taxed.

3

Management Freedom

Missouri LLCs provide flexibility in management structure, allowing you to choose between member-managed or manager-managed operations to suit your business needs.

Formation Process

Select a Distinct Name for Your Missouri LLC

Selecting the ideal name for your LLC is the initial step towards establishing your company. The name should be distinct and not currently used by another entity in Missouri.

Required Words: The name should contain "Limited Liability Company" or an abbreviation such as "LLC," "L.L.C.," "Ltd.," "Company," or "Co."
Prohibited Words: Avoid including words that give the impression of a government affiliation, including "Agency," "Commission," or "Department."
Name Availability: The name must not be identical or too close to a current business name that is registered in Missouri.
Domain Name: You may also want to check whether the domain name for your business is available, even if you do not plan on having a website immediately. This might prevent others from taking your ideal domain name.

Select a Registered Agent for Your Missouri LLC

Missouri law mandates that all LLCs have a registered agent. This is someone or service who receives official documents, official state mail, and tax alerts on behalf of your LLC.

Agent Requirements

Your registered agent may be a person living in Missouri (such as you or someone you know) or a professional registered agent service. Employing a professional registered agent can be comforting. They make sure you are timely notified of all significant documents, and they have the convenience of keeping your home address private.

Professional Services

We highly recommend that you hire a professional Registered Agent service. Utilizing a professional service is convenient and guarantees compliance with state regulations. Many business owners prefer this option for the privacy and reliability it offers.

Recommended Registered Agent Services

ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness provides a secure LLC formation and registered agent service in Missouri. Their website is easy to use and enables you to register your LLC within a few minutes. They also provide compliance monitoring so that you can stay in good standing with the state.

Simple and quick LLC registration
Detailed compliance services
Good customer reviews

Cons: Nonprofit LLCs are not supported.

Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest is an experienced registered agent service provider with decades of experience. Their service comes with secure document storage, and they offer customer support for any inquiries you have throughout the LLC formation process. Their registered agent fee is $125 per year.

High-quality service with a privacy and security focus
Online portal for easy access to your documents
Strong BBB rating and reputable company

Cons: Higher upfront LLC formation fees than others.

File Your LLC with the State

Once you've finalized your LLC name and registered agent, it's time to file your LLC formation documents with the Missouri Secretary of State.

Filing Fee

Online filing fee: $50
Mail filing fee: $105

Processing Times

The filing process usually takes 1-2 business days for online filings. Mail filings take approximately 3-6 business days to process.

Filing Options

Online Filing: The quickest option with processing times of 1-2 business days.
Mail Filing: You can send your Articles of Organization to:
Missouri Secretary of State
Corporations Division
PO Box 778 / 600 W. Main St., Rm. 322
Jefferson City, MO 65102
In-Person Filing: Available at the Secretary of State's office.

Once you've filed, your LLC is officially formed and you will receive a confirmation from the state.

Draft an Operating Agreement (Optional but Recommended)

While Missouri doesn't require an LLC Operating Agreement, it is a good practice to have one in place. This internal document outlines how your LLC will be managed, including the rights and responsibilities of the members, how profits will be divided, and what happens if the LLC needs to dissolve.

Tip: Even if you're the sole member of the LLC, an Operating Agreement can clarify the structure and operations of your business.

Management Structure: Define whether your LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed.
Ownership Percentages: Clearly outline each member's ownership stake in the company.
Profit Distribution: Specify how profits and losses will be allocated among members.
Decision Making: Establish procedures for making important business decisions.

After Formation

After your LLC is properly formed, there are several things that you should do to ensure your business runs smoothly:

Open a Business Bank Account

It's a good idea to keep your LLC's finances separate from personal finances. This will ensure your personal assets are safe and accounting is simpler. Having a dedicated business account helps maintain the liability protection that your LLC provides and makes tax preparation much easier.

Get Business Insurance

No matter how big or small your LLC is, insurance can protect your business from lawsuits and financial loss. You may consider general liability insurance and workers' compensation if you have employees. This provides an additional layer of protection beyond the LLC structure itself.

Set Up Accounting and Bookkeeping

An accountant or a bookkeeping system will help keep your finances in order. It's also important for helping you meet tax requirements and not incur penalties. Proper financial records are essential for making informed business decisions and preparing accurate tax returns.

File for an EIN

If your LLC is going to have employees or if you'd like to get a business bank account, you'll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You can get an EIN from the IRS for free. This unique nine-digit number is used to identify your business for tax purposes.

FAQs

What's the cost of starting an LLC in Missouri?

It costs $50 to submit online and $105 to submit through the mail to file your Articles of Organization.

Do I have to do a DBA (Doing Business As) name for my Missouri LLC?

In general, Missouri LLCs are not required to have a DBA name unless you are going to do business under a name other than the legal LLC name. If you wish to do business under another name, you will be required to file a DBA.

How long does it take for approval of my LLC in Missouri?

Online filings are generally processed in 1-2 business days, while mail filings are roughly 3-6 business days.

Can I serve as my own Registered Agent in Missouri?

Yes, it is possible for you to serve as your own registered agent in Missouri provided you have a street address in the state and can be present in normal business hours to accept official documents.

Does an Operating Agreement need to be filed for an LLC in Missouri?

Though not a Missouri legal requirement, it's strongly advisable for LLCs to have an Operating Agreement. The agreement spells out ownership, procedures for doing business, and helps settle arguments.

Do I need to have an EIN for my Missouri LLC?

Yes, you must have an EIN if your LLC is to have employees or if you are going to be opening up a business checking account. Obtaining an EIN is free through the IRS.

What are the current requirements of my LLC in Missouri?

Missouri requires LLCs to file an annual report with the Secretary of State. It is a simple process that can be completed online.

May I modify the name of my LLC in Missouri?

Yes, you may modify the name of your LLC by submitting an Amendment to Articles of Organization to the Missouri Secretary of State. There is a cost for this filing.

Ready to Start Your Missouri LLC?

Take the first step toward establishing your business with the protection and benefits of an LLC structure. By following these steps and keeping tabs on all filings and fees required, you can keep your LLC in Missouri in good standing for the long haul.

Get Started Today

How to Form an LLC in Missouri