Form an LLC in New Hampshire
Forming an LLC in New Hampshire costs $100 in state filing fees and typically takes 5-7 business days to process. After that, plan for a $100 annual report fee.
Last verified July 2026 against official New Hampshire sources · see sources
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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 other registered entities in New Hampshire. Use the NH Secretary of State's online name search tool to verify availability before filing.
30 minutes
Designate a Registered Agent
Appoint a registered agent who has a physical street address in New Hampshire and is available during normal business hours to receive legal and government documents on behalf of the LLC. The agent can be an individual resident or a registered commercial agent service.
15 minutes
File the Certificate of Formation
Complete and submit the Certificate of Formation (Form LLC-1) with the NH Secretary of State, either online via the NHSOS QuickStart portal, by mail, or in person. Include the $100 filing fee plus the $50 expedited fee if faster processing is needed.
1 hour
Create an Operating Agreement
Although not legally required by New Hampshire state law, drafting an Operating Agreement is strongly recommended to outline ownership structure, member roles, profit distribution, and management procedures. This document helps prevent disputes and is often required by banks when opening a business account.
2-4 hours
What's Next After Filing
Once your LLC is officially formed, you'll want to complete these important steps:
- •Obtain an EIN from the IRS — Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS at no cost using the IRS online application portal. An EIN is required for tax filing purposes, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account.
- •Register for State Taxes and Licenses — Register with the NH Department of Revenue Administration if your LLC is subject to the Business Profits Tax (BPT) or Business Enterprise Tax (BET), and obtain any required local or state business licenses or permits relevant to your industry.
- •File Annual Reports — New Hampshire LLCs must file an Annual Report with the Secretary of State each year by April 1, accompanied by a $100 filing fee. The report updates the state on the LLC's current registered agent, principal address, and member/manager information.
Fees and Processing Time
- State filing fee:
- $100
- Expedite fee:
- $50
- Standard processing:
- 5-7 business days
- Expedited processing:
- 1 business day
The standard filing fee for a Certificate of Formation in New Hampshire is $100. An additional $50 expedited fee applies for same-day or next-business-day processing. Fees are payable to the NH Secretary of State and can be paid online, by mail, or in person.
LLC in New Hampshire: Quick Answers
How much does it cost to form an LLC in New Hampshire?
The state filing fee is $100, plus $50 if you choose expedited processing. Optional costs such as a paid registered agent are on top of that.
How long does it take to form an LLC in New Hampshire?
Standard processing is 5-7 business days; expedited processing is 1 business day.
Does an LLC in New Hampshire need a registered agent?
Yes. You must name a registered agent with a physical New Hampshire address. You can serve as your own agent if you have a New Hampshire street address and are available during business hours.
Does New Hampshire require an LLC to publish a notice?
No. New Hampshire has no newspaper publication requirement for this entity type.
Is an operating agreement required in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire doesn't legally require one, but a written operating agreement is still strongly recommended — banks often ask for it, and it protects your liability shield.
What are the annual fees and filings for an LLC in New Hampshire?
The annual report fee is $100. Due: April 1. See Annual Obligations below for other required filings.
Advantages
- ✓No state personal income tax in New Hampshire, which can benefit LLC members receiving pass-through income
- ✓Simple and straightforward online filing process through the NH Secretary of State's QuickStart portal
- ✓Single-member LLCs are permitted, making it accessible for solo entrepreneurs
- ✓New Hampshire has no sales tax, which reduces compliance burden for many businesses
Considerations
- •Business Profits Tax (BPT) and Business Enterprise Tax (BET) can apply to LLCs with meaningful revenue, adding a state-level tax obligation
- •Annual Report fee of $100 is on the higher end compared to some other states
- •Registered agent with a physical NH address is required, which may add cost for out-of-state owners using a commercial service
Annual Obligations
How an LLC Compares in New Hampshire
LLC vs. Corporation
Unlike a New Hampshire corporation, an LLC avoids double taxation since profits pass through directly to members rather than being taxed at the entity level and again as dividends. LLCs also have fewer formality requirements, with no mandate for a board of directors, annual meetings, or corporate bylaws.
LLC vs. S-Corp
An S-Corp in New Hampshire requires meeting IRS eligibility criteria (e.g., no more than 100 shareholders, only one class of stock), while an LLC has no such ownership restrictions. However, an LLC can elect S-Corp tax treatment with the IRS to potentially reduce self-employment taxes for active members.
LLC vs. Partnership
Unlike a general partnership, a New Hampshire LLC provides limited liability protection to all members, shielding personal assets from business debts. Partnerships do not require state registration and offer simpler administration, but lack the liability shield that an LLC provides.
LLC vs. Nonprofit
A nonprofit organization in New Hampshire is formed for charitable, educational, or public benefit purposes and may qualify for state and federal tax exemptions, while an LLC is a for-profit entity focused on generating returns for its members. Nonprofits face stricter governance and reporting requirements but benefit from tax-exempt status unavailable to standard LLCs.
Sources
Fees, steps and deadlines on this page come from New Hampshire's official filing office and tax agency pages listed below and were last verified in July 2026. Fees change — confirm on the official site before you file.
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