Washington DC LLC Requirements

Each state has different requirements for forming a limited liability company (LLC), and the District of Columbia has its own requirements. Whether you are starting a business or incorporating a business already in existence, you'll want to understand the state requirements for LLC formation.

Cost to form a Washington DC LLC

At BizFilings, we clearly outline our fees and the Washington DC state fees. When you view our pricing to form an LLC you plainly see:

• BizFilings’ package prices. BizFilings offers three incorporation service packages from which you can choose.
• State fee for standard turn-around. Our pricing clearly shows the state fee to form an LLC in DC with standard turn-around.
• Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
• Certified copy. Our pricing also clearly displays the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for issuing a Certified Copy of the Articles of Organization.

Form a DC LLC

LLC name

The LLC name must end with "Limited Liability Company," "LLC" or "L.L.C." The word “Bank” cannot be used unless the company is a bank.

Member/Manager information

The following are Washington DC’s requirements for the members/managers of LLCs:

• Minimum number. LLCs must have one or more members/managers.
• Residence requirements. DC requires directors to have a physical address (no post office boxes).
• Age requirements. DC does not have age requirements.
• Inclusion in the Articles of Organization. Member/Manager names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Organization.

Requirements for the Articles of Organization

The document required to form an LLC in DC is called the Articles of Organization. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Washington DC's requirements include:

• Registered agent. LLCs must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no post office boxes) in DC. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Washington DC allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional limited liability company (PLLC) .

After forming a limited liability company (LLC) , you must undertake certain steps on an ongoing basis to keep your business in compliance. These steps are also important in preserving the limited liability an LLC provides its owner(s). This guide outlines the ongoing requirements for DC LLCs.

LLC taxes and fees

The following are taxation requirements and ongoing fees in DC:

• Annual report. DC requires LLCs to file a biennial report. Reports are due on April 1st every two years. The fee is $300.
• Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for DC LLCs, visit Business Owner's Toolkit or DC's website .
• Federal tax identification number (EIN). An EIN is required for LLCs that will have employees. Additionally, most banks require an EIN in order to open a business bank account.
• State tax identification number. DC does not require a state tax identification number.

Business licenses

Business licenses and/or permits are required for most businesses. The BizFilings Business License Application Package can help you stay on top of these requirements.

Additional DC information

View the following additional resources BizFilings has for forming and maintaining companies in DC:

• DC Corporation Formation

Continue Your Research

• How to Select a State for Incorporation
• Understanding Incorporation Requirements
• What is a Registered Agent?

Explore BizFilings' Services

• C Corporation Formation Service
• S Corporation Formation Service
• Registered Agent Service
• Professional Corporation