In Missouri, a limited liability company needs an operating agreement outlining ownership, management, members’ rights and responsibilities. The agreement is legally binding but LLCs don’t file it with Missouri. The state requires it though. It helps resolve disputes between members and protects members’ assets.
LLCs should customize their Missouri operating agreement, tailoring it to structure and operations. Following state laws in the document is essential too.
Foreign LLCs must register with Missouri’s Secretary of State and appoint an in-state registered agent. To register, foreign LLCs file the "Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company". The online filing fee is $50 or $105 by mail.
The purpose of an LLC operating agreement is to define rules and guidelines for a business. Your personal liability might increase without the structure in an agreement. Even if your state doesn’t require one, having an agreement protects your interests.
An operating agreement details LLC operations including the powers of each member and voting rights. Normally, it’s about 15 to 20 pages. It is for the company’s internal reference and doesn’t need public disclosure. Members can override default LLC rules with a written operating agreement.