Form a LLC in Arizona
Everything you need to know about forming a 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 business name that includes 'Limited Liability Company,' 'LLC,' or 'L.L.C.' and is distinguishable from existing entities registered in Arizona. Use the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) eCorp name search tool to verify availability.
30 minutes
Designate a Statutory Agent
Appoint a statutory agent (Arizona's term for registered agent) who has a physical street address in Arizona and is available during normal business hours to receive legal documents. The agent can be an individual Arizona resident or a registered commercial agent service.
15 minutes
File Articles of Organization
Submit your Articles of Organization to the Arizona Corporation Commission online via the ACC eCorp portal or by mail. The filing fee is $50 and requires the LLC name, principal address, statutory agent information, and member/manager structure.
45 minutes
Fulfill the Publication Requirement
Within 60 days of ACC approval, publish a notice of LLC formation in a newspaper of general circulation in the county of your known place of business for three consecutive publications. This requirement is waived if your principal address is in Maricopa or Pima County.
3 weeks (publication period)
What's Next After Filing
Once your LLC is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Draft an Operating Agreement — Although not legally required by Arizona law, drafting an operating agreement is strongly recommended to define ownership percentages, member roles, profit distribution, and operating procedures. This document helps prevent disputes and reinforces liability protection.
- •Obtain an EIN from the IRS — Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS online at no cost. An EIN is required for opening a business bank account, hiring employees, and filing federal taxes, and is necessary for multi-member LLCs.
- •Register for State Taxes and Licenses — Register with the Arizona Department of Revenue for applicable state taxes, including transaction privilege tax (sales tax) if selling goods or services. Obtain any required local business licenses from your city or county, as Arizona has no statewide general business license.
Advantages
- ✓No annual report or renewal fees required, reducing ongoing administrative costs and paperwork burden
- ✓No state-level franchise tax or LLC-specific entity tax in Arizona, lowering the overall tax burden
- ✓The publication requirement is waived for LLCs with a principal address in Maricopa or Pima County, covering the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas
- ✓Arizona allows single-member LLCs, providing full liability protection and pass-through taxation for solo entrepreneurs
- ✓Online filing through the ACC eCorp portal is straightforward, with expedited same-day processing available for time-sensitive formations
Considerations
- •Arizona has a unique publication requirement for LLCs outside Maricopa and Pima counties, adding cost (typically $30-$100) and time (up to 60 days) to the formation process
- •Standard processing times of 14-16 business days can be slow compared to other states, requiring payment of an extra fee for faster turnaround
- •Out-of-state LLCs doing business in Arizona must file for foreign qualification with the ACC and also appoint an Arizona statutory agent, adding complexity for multi-state operators
Annual Obligations
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