How to Start an LLC in Wyoming

Last updated on 05 Apr 2025

How to Form an LLC in Wyoming | Complete Guide

A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Form an LLC in Wyoming

Forming an LLC in Wyoming is a straightforward and safe method of creating your business, providing protection for your personal assets against business debts. Don't worry if you're a beginner at this process! Here are the steps that will guide you in forming your Wyoming LLC easily.

3 Easy Steps to Open Your Wyoming LLC

Pick a Unique Name

Choose a unique name for your Wyoming LLC that complies with state requirements and isn't already in use by another business.

Select a Registered Agent

Designate a registered agent who will receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your LLC.

File Formation Documents

Submit your Articles of Organization to the Wyoming Secretary of State along with the required filing fee to officially form your LLC.

Formation Process

Choose a Unique Name for Your Wyoming LLC

The first step is to choose a unique name for your Wyoming LLC. The name has to be distinguishable from all other business names already registered with the state. You can check for name availability by searching using the Wyoming Secretary of State's online database.

Required Words: Your LLC name should contain "Limited Liability Company" or abbreviations such as "LLC" or "L.L.C."
Prohibited Words: Your business name cannot contain words such as "Agency," "Board," "Bureau," "Commission," "Department," or "Municipal."
Restricted Words: Do not use terms that might suggest a relationship with government agencies, such as "FBI" or "Treasury."
Domain Name: Think about looking up whether the domain name for your LLC is available to claim your brand on the internet.

Choose Your Wyoming Registered Agent

All Wyoming LLCs are required to appoint a registered agent to serve as the contact point for purposes of receiving official legal notices, tax bills, and government messages. Your registered agent may either be a person or an agent service.

Agent Requirements

Your registered agent should have a Wyoming physical address and be accessible during regular business hours. You can serve as your own registered agent or designate someone in your company, or you can hire a professional service to help you comply.

Professional Services

Recommended Registered Agent Services:

Best Wyoming Registered Agent Services

ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness provides fast and efficient LLC formation services, with the bonus of including a professional registered agent service. They keep you in compliance with state regulations, and they provide an easy-to-use dashboard for handling your LLC's documents. Their registered agent service costs $199 per year.

Pros:

User-friendly online platform.
Excellent compliance management.
Great customer support.

Cons:

Some premium features cost extra.

Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a well-known company in the business incorporation business, providing quality registered agent service and access to an online interface for handling your LLC documents. They emphasize security and service. Their registered agent service costs $125 per year.

Pros:

Strong focus on privacy protection.
Experienced team with personalized support.
Secure document management.

Cons:

Higher incorporation fees than some competitors.

File Your Formation Documents with the State

After choosing a name and registered agent, you'll need to file your Articles of Organization with the Wyoming Secretary of State. This document officially forms your LLC.

Filing Options

Online Filing: This is the fastest and most convenient method. You can file directly on the Wyoming Secretary of State website.

Mail Filing: If you prefer to file by mail, you can send your completed forms to:

Wyoming Secretary of State
2020 Carey Avenue, Suite 700
Cheyenne, WY 82002

Filing Fee

The filing fee for forming an LLC in Wyoming is $100 whether you file electronically or by paper mail.

Additional Requirements:

Operating Agreement: Although an Operating Agreement is not legally necessary in Wyoming, it is strongly advised. It is an internal document that details how your LLC will be governed and avoids conflicts between members.

Once Your LLC is Formed – What's Next?

Now that your LLC is in place, it's essential to address a couple more things to keep things running smoothly.

Keep Personal and Business Finances Separate

To safeguard your personal assets, maintain your business and personal finances separate. This will enable you to keep limited liability protection intact and avoid having your personal property at risk.

Open a Business Bank Account

It is necessary to open a distinct business bank account to keep your LLC's finances separate and your personal assets intact.

Hire an Accountant

A professional accountant can help manage your LLC's bookkeeping and tax filings to ensure that you remain compliant with state and federal laws. They can also help with IRS compliance.

Consider Business Insurance

Business insurance is not required but can protect your LLC from future risks, such as legal lawsuits, property loss, and the like. If you do have employees, workers' compensation insurance is also crucial for protecting them from workplace injury or illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the state filing fee for forming an LLC in Wyoming?

The fee for forming an LLC in Wyoming is $100 whether you file electronically or by paper mail.

Do I require a Trade Name (DBA)?

No, a Trade Name (DBA) is not necessary in Wyoming unless you are going to operate under a different name than your LLC's registered name. You may utilize your LLC's name for all transactions unless you opt for a different name for branding reasons.

How long does it take to process the Articles of Organization?

Online submissions are processed instantaneously, and mail submissions take 15 business days. There are no expedited filing options available in Wyoming.

Can I serve as my own Registered Agent?

Yes, you may serve as your own Registered Agent in Wyoming provided you maintain a physical street address in the state and are present during business hours to accept official documents.

Do I require an Operating Agreement for my Wyoming LLC?

Although an Operating Agreement is not legally necessary in Wyoming, it is strongly advised. It is an internal document that details how your LLC will be governed and avoids conflicts between members.

Do I need to file an annual report in Wyoming?

Yes, Wyoming does require LLCs to file an annual report. The cost is $50, and it has to be filed online with the Wyoming Secretary of State.

What are the ongoing requirements for keeping my LLC active in Wyoming?

In addition to filing an annual report, you need to keep your LLC in good standing by having a registered agent and paying all required state fees on time.

Ready to Start Your Wyoming LLC?

Forming an LLC in Wyoming is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps. By following this guide and ensuring compliance with state regulations, you'll be well on your way to establishing a successful business with the liability protection you need.

Get Started Today