How to Form an LLC in South Carolina
To form an LLC in South Carolina, file Articles of Organization and pay a $110 state fee online through the Secretary of State’s website. Approval usually takes 24 hours. You’ll also need to choose a registered agent and create an operating agreement.
Additionally, most SC businesses need a license from their local municipality, typically costing $50-$100 as there is no statewide business license. Licensing is handled by individual cities.
An LLC registration and a business license are two separate requirements. The LLC establishes your formal business structure, while the license gives permission to operate your business within a certain area.
Getting licensed ensures you comply with regulations for your industry in your city. If you skip required licensing, you risk penalties and loss of LLC liability protections.
Startup costs for an SC LLC:
- Registered agent fees ($50+ per year)
- Operating agreement creation ($100-$500)
Ongoing costs include:
- Annual report filings
- City business license renewals
- Income taxes
The key benefits of an SC LLC include personal asset protection, flexible management options, and pass-through taxation. An LLC keeps your personal assets separate from the business for liability purposes.
How long does it take to get an LLC approved in South Carolina?
How to Obtain an LLC License in South Carolina
To form an LLC in South Carolina, file Articles of Organization and pay a $110 state fee online through the Secretary of State’s website. Approval usually takes 24 hours. You’ll also need to choose a registered agent and create an operating agreement.
Additionally, most SC businesses need a $50-$100 license from their local municipality as there is no statewide business license. Licensing is handled by individual cities.
An LLC registration and a business license are two separate requirements. The LLC establishes your formal business structure, while the license gives permission to operate your business within a certain area.
If you skip required licensing, you risk penalties and loss of LLC liability protections.
Other startup costs include:
- Registered agent fees ($50+ per year)
- Operating agreement creation ($100-$500)
Ongoing costs include:
- City business license renewals
- Income taxes
The key benefits of an SC LLC include personal asset protection, flexible management options, and pass-through taxation. An LLC keeps your personal assets separate from the business for liability purposes.