Form an LLC in Arizona
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Arizona. Filing fees, requirements, timeline, and step-by-step guidance.
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How to File
Choose a Name for Your LLC
Select a unique name that includes 'Limited Liability Company,' 'LLC,' or 'L.L.C.' and is distinguishable from existing entities. Use the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) eCorp name search tool to verify availability before filing.
30 minutes
Designate a Statutory Agent
Appoint a statutory agent (Arizona's term for a registered agent) who has a physical street address in Arizona and is available during normal business hours to accept legal documents. The agent must consent to the appointment by signing the Statutory Agent Acceptance form (M002).
15 minutes
File Articles of Organization
Submit the Articles of Organization (form L010) to the Arizona Corporation Commission online via the ACC eCorp portal or by mail. Include the LLC name, statutory agent information, member/manager details, and the $50 filing fee.
30-45 minutes
Publish Notice in a Newspaper
Within 60 days of approval, publish a Notice of LLC Formation in a newspaper of general circulation in the county of the LLC's known place of business for three consecutive publications. This is a unique Arizona requirement; Phoenix and Tucson county LLCs are exempt if they have a known place of business address on file.
3 weeks (publication period)
What's Next After Filing
Once your LLC is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •File Affidavit of Publication — After completing the newspaper publication, obtain an Affidavit of Publication from the newspaper and file it with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Failure to file this affidavit can result in administrative dissolution of the LLC.
- •Draft an Operating Agreement — Although not legally required by Arizona statute, drafting an operating agreement is strongly recommended to define ownership percentages, member roles, profit distributions, and operational procedures. This document governs the internal management of the LLC.
- •Obtain EIN and Open a Business Bank Account — Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS at irs.gov to use for tax filings, hiring employees, and opening a dedicated business bank account. Register with the Arizona Department of Revenue for any applicable state taxes, such as transaction privilege tax (TPT).
Advantages
- ✓No annual report or annual state filing fee, reducing ongoing administrative burden and costs compared to most other states.
- ✓Arizona allows single-member LLCs, making it accessible for solo entrepreneurs seeking liability protection without needing multiple members.
- ✓Pass-through taxation by default avoids double taxation; members report profits and losses on personal tax returns, and the LLC can also elect S-Corp or C-Corp taxation.
- ✓Strong liability protection shields members' personal assets from business debts and legal judgments, and Arizona courts generally uphold the LLC liability shield.
Considerations
- •Arizona's unique newspaper publication requirement adds cost (typically $30-$300 depending on the county and newspaper) and time to the formation process, which most other states do not impose.
- •Standard processing time of 14-16 business days is slower than many states; expedited same-day service requires an additional fee and same-day submission deadline.
- •LLCs with taxable sales must navigate Arizona's transaction privilege tax (TPT) system, which is structured differently from standard sales tax and requires separate registration and compliance.
Annual Obligations
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