Start an LLC in Connecticut

Choosing a name for your Connecticut LLC is both a creative and strategic step. While you’ll need to meet state requirements—such as including “LLC” and ensuring the name is distinguishable from existing businesses—the bigger picture matters just as much. A strong name should be memorable, easy to spell, and clearly connected to your products or services so customers instantly understand what you offer. It’s also smart to think beyond the paperwork: check whether your desired name (or a close variation) is available as a domain so you can build a consistent online presence. The right name sets the tone for your brand and can make a lasting impression as your business grows.

Tip: LLC names in Connecticut can be reserved for up to 120 days by submitting an Application of Reservation of Business Name to the Connecticut Secretary of State along with a $60 fee.

With your business name in place, the next step is to register a domain (such as yourbusiness.com) for your website. Securing your domain early is essential, as availability can change quickly and waiting too long could mean losing your exact name—or ending up with a less memorable variation. Registering promptly also helps protect your brand by preventing competitors from claiming similar domains that could confuse your audience or dilute your business identity. To make the process smooth and secure, it’s worth choosing a reliable domain registrar (like Northwest) that offers transparent pricing, strong customer support, and features like domain privacy and easy renewal management. Taking these steps upfront ensures your online presence starts on solid ground and stays protected as your business grows.

A registered agent accepts service of process or legal mailings on behalf of your business. In Connecticut, you can be your own registered agent or hire a registered agent like Northwest. Per state law, your Connecticut registered agent must:

• Have a physical address (can’t be a P.O. Box or virtual office) in Connecticut
• Keep regular business hours at this address
• Accept service of process (lawsuits and other legal mail) on behalf of your business and forward it to you

Tip: Northwest Registered Agent is a professional registered agent and business formation service. We not only act as your Connecticut registered agent, but we let you list our address on your Certificate if you’d prefer to keep your private information off the public record.

For the fourth step in creating your limited liability company in Connecticut, you’ll need to submit a Certificate of Organization to the Secretary of State online, by mail, or in person. This officially forms your LLC with the state.

Note: The information on this form becomes part of the public record. If you already have an LLC and want to operate in Connecticut, you’ll need to register a foreign LLC.

1. Filing party. The person who completes and submits the Certificate of Organization.
2. Filing party mailing address. Where confirmation of your filing will be sent.
3. Company name. Must follow Connecticut naming rules (e.g., include “LLC”).
4. Principal address. Must be a physical street address.
5. Mailing address. P.O. Boxes are allowed.
6. Registered agent information. Name and street address of your Connecticut registered agent.
7. Business email address. You can list none if you don’t have one.
8. NAICS code. Identifies your business activity. To find your code, you can utilize the NAICS lookup tool.
9. Organizer. The name and signature of the person filing the form.

An operating agreement is an internal document that determines the way your LLC runs. What an operating agreement is good for:

• Defining important information for your business
• Making decisions related to dissolution, selling, and bringing on new members
• Establishing rules for running your LLC

Connecticut does not require LLCs to have an operating agreement, but it’s good to have one in order to ensure your company is run the way you want.

Tip: We provide an attorney-drafted Connecticut operating agreement template you can use for free.

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) identifies your business for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It’s also important if you have multiple members, intend to hire employees, or open a business bank account. You can apply for an EIN for free directly from the IRS online, or hire us to get an EIN for you.

LLCs formed in Connecticut are required to file an annual report each year to ensure the state has up-to-date contact information and is aware of any changes in ownership, with a filing fee of $80. These reports are due on March 31, beginning the year after your business is formed, and if you’re concerned about forgetting, we can file your Connecticut Annual Report on your behalf.

You will also need to pay Connecticut LLC taxes. Luckily for you, LLC taxes in Connecticut are pretty straightforward and you’ll need to pay the LLC’s income on your personal income tax at the federal self-employment tax rate. There are other costs to form a Connecticut LLC you’ll need to consider like permits or professional licensing.

LLCs enjoy limited liability because they’re treated as a separate legal entity from their owners. So if you mix personal and business funds, a court might decide your LLC isn’t actually a separate entity. This is why it’s important for your LLC to have its own bank account.

To open a bank account for your LLC, make sure you’ve got these essentials with you:

• A copy of your CT LLC Certificate of Organization
• Your LLC’s operating agreement
• Your company’s EIN

If your LLC has more than one member, you may need to provide an LLC Resolution to Open a Bank Account.