Forming an LLC is a big step for many entrepreneurs. But it’s also just the beginning. The next steps are what keep your business in good standing and help you avoid missed filings, fines, and unnecessary stress.
Below is a straightforward guide of what you need to do after you officially form your LLC. If you prefer extra support, many of these steps are included in our LLC formation packages or can be included with your order as an add on item. Let’s get started.
What to Do After Forming an LLC (Quick Overview)
- Review your Certificate of Formation (also called Articles of Formation in some states) and make sure all information is correct, especially your Registered Agent information.
- Apply for an EIN with the IRS
- Open a business bank account
- Put an Operating Agreement in place
- Check licenses and tax registrations that apply to your business
- Understand BOI reporting (most companies are not required to file at this time)
- Plan ahead for annual or biennial reports so you stay in good standing with your state of formation
Step 1: Confirm Your LLC Filing Details
Before you move on to taxes, banking, or licensing, confirm that the state has the right information on file. Small errors can cause big delays later.
- Business name is spelled exactly as approved
- Business address is correct
- Management structure is correct (member-managed vs. manager-managed, if applicable)
- Registered Agent name and address are correct
Step 2: Make Sure Your Registered Agent Is Reliable
Your Registered Agent is your LLC’s official point of contact for important state correspondence and legal notices (including service of process). If you miss something time-sensitive, it can create serious problems, including default judgments or loss of good standing.
If you listed yourself or someone you know, remember the requirements typically include:
- A physical address in the state (not a PO Box)
- Availability during normal business hours
- Prompt handling of legal and state notices
How URA can help: If you use URA as your Registered Agent, we send compliance notifications so you don’t miss annual or biennial report deadlines. Our professional and premium LLC formation packages come with registered agent service.
Learn more about our registered agent services.
Step 3: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Many LLCs need an EIN to open a business bank account (remember, it’s important to keep your business finances and your personal finances separate), hire employees, run payroll, or handle certain tax filings. Even if you’re a single-member LLC, banks often request an EIN during account setup.
If you’re not sure whether you need one, it’s still worth checking early so you don’t hit a last-minute roadblock when you’re ready to open your bank account.
If you’re using URA’s formation service, our premium package includes an EIN number. If you want to apply for an EIN yourself, you can do so at the IRS website here.
Step 4: Open a Business Bank Account
Separating personal and business finances is one of the simplest ways to keep clean records and reinforce that your LLC is a separate entity.
Banks commonly ask for:
- Your approved formation document (Articles of Organization / Certificate of Formation)
- EIN confirmation (or SSN depending on your setup and bank policy)
- An Operating Agreement (some banks require this)
Step 5: Put an Operating Agreement in Place
An Operating Agreement explains how your LLC is owned and managed. Even if your state doesn’t require one, it’s strongly recommended, including for single-member LLCs.
A solid Operating Agreement typically covers:
- Ownership and member roles
- Management structure and decision-making rules
- Profit distributions
- What happens if an owner leaves or a new owner joins
Learn more about operating agreements here. If you don’t want to create one from scratch, our Professional Package includes an Operating Agreement template. You can also add an Operating Agreement template to any of our packages.
Step 6: Check Licenses, Permits, and Tax Registrations
Forming an LLC doesn’t automatically grant permission to operate. Depending on your business activity and location, you may need licenses or permits at the state, county, or city level.
Examples include:
- General business license
- Professional or industry-specific licenses
- Home occupation permits
- Sales tax registration (if you sell taxable products/services)
- Employer registrations (if you hire employees)
Requirements vary widely, so it’s best to confirm early rather than finding out after you’ve started operating.
Step 7: Determine Your BOI Reporting Requirements (Not Required for Most Companies Right Now)
You may have heard about Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. As of the most recent FinCEN guidance, entities created in the United States (often called “domestic reporting companies”) are exempt under an interim final rule.
That means BOI reporting is not required for most LLCs formed in the U.S. at this time. However, some foreign entities registered to do business in the U.S. may still have reporting obligations, and rules can change over time.
For the most recent details regarding who is required to file a BOI Report, visit FINCEN.
Step 8: Plan Ahead for Annual or Biennial Reports
Many states require an annual or biennial report to keep your LLC active and in good standing. Missing these filings can lead to late fees, loss of good standing, or administrative dissolution.
Two ways URA can help:
- If URA is your Registered Agent, we send notifications so you don’t miss annual or biennial report deadlines.
- If you want it handled for you, we offer Annual Report Filing Services and can file on your behalf.
FAQ: After You Form an LLC
Do I need a Registered Agent after I form an LLC?
Yes. Every state requires an LLC to maintain a Registered Agent with a physical address in the state. If your Registered Agent information becomes invalid, your LLC can fall out of good standing.
What happens if I miss my annual or biennial report?
States typically charge late fees and may revoke good standing. If the report stays unfiled long enough, the state can administratively dissolve the LLC. Filing on time is one of the most important compliance tasks for a new LLC.
Do I need an Operating Agreement for a single-member LLC?
Even if it’s not required by your state, it’s strongly recommended. It documents how the LLC is structured and helps show the business is separate from you personally.
Is BOI reporting required for my LLC?
For most U.S.-formed LLCs, BOI reporting is currently not required under the latest FinCEN interim final rule. Some foreign entities may still have obligations, and rules can change, so it’s worth confirming based on your specific situation.
Stay Compliant After Forming Your LLC
If you’ve just formed an LLC, your next steps are about protecting your business, keeping records clean, and staying compliant. Start with the basics (Registered Agent, EIN, banking, Operating Agreement), then plan ahead for annual/biennial reports so nothing slips through the cracks.
If you want help staying compliant, URA offers Registered Agent Services and Annual Report Services to ensure that your business remains in good standing with your state. Contact us today if you need further assistance.
