To start an LLC in Virginia, you will need to file the Articles of Organization with the Virginia State Corporate Commission, which costs $100. You can apply online or by mail. The Articles of Organization is the legal document that officially creates your Virginia Limited Liability Company. Your name must include the phrase “Limited Liability Company” or one of its abbreviations (e.g., LLC, L.L.C., LC, etc.).
Naming Your Virginia LLC
To name an LLC in Virginia, you need to make sure that the name you’ve chosen is available for use in the State and follow the naming conventions as outlined by the State Corporations Commission. Virginia state law requires all LLC names to include the terms “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” “Limited Liability Company,” or similar words that indicate the company’s type of organization and limit personal liability. You can use the Virginia Name Check Availability Search tool to see if your business name is available.
First, search your business name and compare it to existing businesses in Virginia. Second, familiarize yourself with the business name rules in Virginia so your Virginia LLC gets approved. If you’re considering naming your LLC after yourself, it’s usually better practice to choose a name that sounds more professional.
Certain words can’t be used in a Virginia LLC name such as those that suggest a government affiliation or imply a special status without approval.
The Costs of Starting an LLC in Virginia
Forming a Virginia LLC costs a $100 fee to file Articles of Organization. A $50 annual registration fee is also required, which is due by the last day of the month in which your LLC was established each year.
Forming an LLC in Virginia requires the completion and filing of the Articles of Organization with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC), and it can be filed instantly online. If you file by mail or in person, processing takes 1-3 weeks.
Foreign LLCs will need to file Form LLC-1052, Application for a Certificate of Registration to Transact Business in Virginia, with a comparable document from its home state.
Business Name Reservation
Consider reserving your chosen business name with an Application for Reservation or Renewal of Reservation of a Business Entity Name, which incurs a $10 fee. This reservation holds your name for up to 120 days.
Additional Steps and Fees
Starting an LLC in Virginia typically costs around $100 to $500, including the costs for naming, registering agent fees, licenses, and certificates for fictitious names if used. Appoint a registered agent, file the organization’s Articles, pay fees, and then you’re required to make an operating agreement, obtain necessary licenses and permits, and set up your LLC’s financial structure.
LLC Naming vs. Business Branding
Your LLC’s legal entity name can differ from your business brand name. This distinction allows you to market your products or services under a more memorable or marketable name while maintaining the legal protections of the LLC.
When crafting your LLC and business names, ensure that the name you select is unique, complies with Virginia law, and suits your brand. Remember that continuity in branding can help with memorability, but always include the LLC in legal documentation to maintain clarity and professionalism.