How to Start an LLC in Washington State

Before you jump in, you’ll need to choose a name for your LLC. Washington’s rules for naming your LLC are listed in Revised Code Washington (RCW) § 23.95.305. Here’s the gist. Your LLC’s name must:

• Contain an indicator such as “limited liability company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC.”
• Not include words like “incorporated,” “limited partnership,” or any other words that might make your LLC sound like a different type of entity.
• Be unique among business names in Washington.

Already have a business name? Check to see if it’s available.

Once you’ve chosen a business name, you’ll need to appoint a Washington registered agent. Washington requires all LLCs to have a registered agent—an individual or company that accepts legal and state mail on behalf of your company.

Washington is one of only a handful of states that distinguishes between a commercial registered agent (like us) and a noncommercial registered agent. Most individual and single-state agents are noncommercial registered agents. You can appoint yourself, someone within the business, or a third party such as a registered agent company to accept service of process on behalf of your LLC.

Learn why business pros use a registered agent service.

Starting an LLC in Washington requires filing a form called the Certificate of Formation with the Washington Secretary of State. You can submit online, by mail, or in person. Online filings cost $200 and are processed in two business days after receipt. Paper filings cost $180 and are processed in the order received—unless you pay an additional $50 state fee for two-day processing.

Note: All of the information on this form will become part of the public record.

You’ll need to provide the following information about your LLC:

• UBI number. If you have a UBI, check yes. Hint: most people select “no.”
• Company name. Include an indicator like “LLC.”
• Duration. Indicate whether your LLC will close after a specific time or exist indefinitely.
• Effective date. You may include a future date (up to 90 days) to delay the start of your LLC or select “date of filing” for it to start immediately.
• Registered agent. Check the “yes” box if you’ve appointed a commercial registered agent and list their name here.
• Registered agent address. If you’ve appointed a non-commercial registered agent, list their name, phone number, email address, and physical Washington address here.
• Registered agent mailing address (optional). Add a Washington mailing address.
• Registered agent signature. Your registered agent must sign the Certificate of Formation.
• Principal address. This must be a physical address—no PO boxes allowed.
• Mailing address (optional).
• Return address (optional). This is where the state will send confirmation of your filing.
• Executor name and address. The person submitting your Certificate of Formation.

Washington requires LLCs to file an initial report within 120 days of forming your business. Most of the required information is identical to the information you’ll list on your Certificate of Formation. However, you’ll also need to include the names and addresses of your members/managers as well as a brief description of your business purpose. Your initial report must be filed with the Washington Secretary of State and requires a $10 filing fee.

And, you’ll have to repeat this process every year. The Washington annual report is similar to the initial report—except that it’s more expensive to file ($60). It also ensures that the state has your most current business information.

Worried you’ll forget? Let us file your annual report for you.

Your LLC’s operating agreement is a document that outlines how your business will function. It should include everything from how much each member initially invested in the company to how you’ll handle internal disputes. Once signed, your operating agreement is a binding contract between all members of the LLC.

Check out our attorney-drafted Washington LLC Operating Agreement.

An EIN (employer identification number) is used by the IRS to identify your business on tax filings. It’s like a social security number for your LLC. You can apply online (through the IRS website) or file a paper form to obtain a free EIN.

Learn How to get an EIN for your LLC.

It’s crucial to have a business bank account. Why? LLCs are considered separate, distinct entities from their owners. It’s this separation that allows owners to have limited liability protection. Unfortunately, mixing personal and business finances could put your liability protection at risk.

To open a bank account for your LLC, you’ll need to bring the following to the bank:

• your Washington Certificate of Formation (a copy is acceptable)
• the LLC’s operating agreement
• the LLC’s EIN
• an LLC Resolution to Open a Bank Account (if your LLC has more than one member).

If your LLC has more than one member, use our LLC Resolution to Open a Bank Account.

You’ve formed your LLC and opened a bank account. Now, it’s time to fund the business. Each member should make an initial contribution to pay for their membership interest. Contributions are traditionally made by writing a check or depositing cash into the LLC’s bank account. However, members can also contribute property or services. These types of contributions can sometimes trigger tax events, so consider consulting a professional if you take this route.