Filing a South Carolina LLC
When creating a business, you must choose one type of organizational structure. Many people who form a company in South Carolina elect the LLC structure. Not only is it easy to develop a South Carolina LLC, but doing so can provide business owners and members with significant liability protection.
Steps To Filing a South Carolina LLC
Choose A Name
When forming your South Carolina LLC, the first thing you must do is choose a name. When you’re coming up with your name, you’ll need to include an indicator like “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company” in your name. If you fail to do so, the state of South Carolina will not accept the name and filing. Additionally, the state will not allow any duplicate business names. You cannot choose a name that is already in use by another entity. To avoid this, use the DoMyLLC Name Availability Check Page.
Choose A Registered Agent
After picking a name, you’ll need to select an agent for service of process. Service of process agents are those tasked with accepting legal correspondence on behalf of the company and delivering it to the owners. While many business owners overlook the agent for service of process requirement, experienced South Carolina LLC owners know that a quality agent could help set their business apartment. You should consider hiring a professional third-party like DoMyLLC to serve as your agent.
File Articles Of Organization & Pay Filing Fees
At this point, it’s time to file the paperwork needed to begin forming the South Carolina LLC. Prospective owners will want to file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. When doing so, owners will need to include a $110 filing fee. The report will also contain other pertinent information, such as:
- Name of the company
- Address of the initial designated office
- Agent for Service of process name and address
- Name and address of each organizer
- Management structure (member or manager managed)
- Names and addresses of initial managers or members
- Signature of authorization
File Initial Report
Most South Carolina LLCs will not have to file an Initial Report. However, if the company elects S-corp taxation, there is an Initial Report due.
Create An Operating Agreement And Hold Meetings
South Carolina LLC owners will also want to draft an operating agreement. This form defines how the company will conduct business so that they can begin holding meetings.
Obtain Employer Identification Number
Employer Identification Numbers are required to file taxes and secure a business bank account. You can obtain an EIN from the IRS.
File State Required Annual Reports
Most South Carolina LLCs do not have an annual reporting requirement. However, owners should read the South Carolina Annual Report page to ensure they do not need to file anything with the state.
Ongoing Maintenance
Although South Carolina LLCs do not have to file annual reports, they must still file taxes and renew any business permits or licenses.
How DoMyLLC Can Assist With Streamlining The Process
If you need help forming your South Carolina LLC, there’s no longer a need to worry. DoMyLLC is here for you with services such as:
- Name availability check
- Articles of Organization preparation
- Filing of the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State’s office
- Sample documents, including a sample Operating Agreement, meeting notices, and meeting minutes
- Dedicated account manager
- Unlimited customer support
Be sure to contact us today to determine how we can help your South Carolina LLC grow.