Timeframe for LLC Approval
It normally takes less than 1-2 days for the Iowa Secretary of State to approve online submissions and 2-3 weeks for forms mailed or faxed. Overall, the timeframe for forming an LLC in Iowa can be relatively reasonable, and many entrepreneurs are able to start operating their businesses within a couple of weeks, assuming all necessary requirements are met.
LLC Formation Process and Costs
To form an LLC in Iowa, you’ll need to file a Certificate of Organization with the Iowa Secretary of State, which costs $50. You can apply online, by mail, or by fax. The Certificate of Organization is the legal document that officially creates your Iowa Limited Liability Company.
Once you’ve gathered all of your information together and filed your Certificate of Organization, it can take up to three weeks for the Iowa Secretary of State to legally create your LLC.
In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to set up your Iowa LLC. From choosing a name to registering with the state, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get started on the path to entrepreneurship.
Many of Iowa’s LLC fees will cost you less than when you start an LLC in another state. You only need to file a biennial (every other year) report with the state of Iowa, which costs $45. The $50 fee is a one-time fee and the only LLC formation cost to register your Limited Liability Company with the state.
Additional Details for Starting an Iowa LLC
LLCs are the most common business structure used in Iowa. They are the most popular business entity because they offer liability protection for the LLC owners.
Depending on the state, the Certificate of Organization form is sometimes called the Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation. Nonetheless, it serves the same purpose: to create your LLC.
Iowa business name cost: Naming your Limited Liability Company doesn’t cost anything.
Naming Your Iowa LLC
Before finalizing your LLC name, confirm its availability by performing a business entity search on the official Secretary of State website.
If your preferred business name is available to use, you can reserve it for 120 days by submitting an application and paying the $10 filing fee. Make checks payable to the “Secretary of State.”
Your LLC’s name must be recognizably different from the names of other business entities already on file with the Iowa Secretary of State. Your name should include the abbreviation LLC or the words “Limited Liability Company."