Iowa LLC Requirements

Each state has different requirements for forming a limited liability company (LLC). 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 an Iowa LLC

At BizFilings, we clearly outline our fees and the Iowa 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 incorporate in Iowa 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 Certificate of Organization.

Form an Iowa LLC

LLC name

The LLC name must end with "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," "L.L.C.," "Limited Company," "Ltd. Co.," "LC" or "L.C." It must be distinguishable from the name of any domestic or foreign LLC authorized to transact business or a name to which exclusive right is, at the time, reserved or registered.

Member/Manager information

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

• Minimum number. LLCs must have one or more members/managers.
• Residence requirements. Iowa does not have a provision specifying where members/managers must reside.
• Age requirements. Iowa does not have age requirements.
• Inclusion in the Certificate of Organization. Member/Manager names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Organization.

Requirements for the Certificate of Organization

The document required to form an LLC in Iowa is called the Certificate of Organization. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Iowa'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 Iowa. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.

Professional services businesses

Iowa 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 Iowa LLCs.

LLC taxes and fees

The following are taxation requirements and ongoing fees for Iowa LLCs:

• Annual report. Iowa requires LLCs to file a biennial report that is due between January 1 and April 1 of odd years. The fee for this report is $45 or $30 if filed online.
• Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for Iowa LLCs, visit Business Owner's Toolkit or the State of Iowa .
• 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. Iowa 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 Iowa information

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

• Iowa 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