North Carolina 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 a North Carolina LLC

At BizFilings, we clearly outline our fees and the North Carolina 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 North Carolina with standard turn-around.
• Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
• 48-hour turn-around. North Carolina has a 48-hour filing option, which is outlined in our pricing.
• 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 North Carolina LLC

LLC Name

The name of an LLC must end with "Limited Liability Company," "Ltd. Liability Company," "Limited Liability Co.," "Ltd. Liability Co.," "LLC" or "L.L.C." Names may not contain language stating or implying the LLC is organized for purposes not permitted under North Carolina law and its Articles of Organization. The name must be distinguishable from that of any domestic or foreign LLC and from the reserved or registered name of a corporation, nonprofit corporation or partnership. Use of words such as "Insurance," "Mutual," "Trust," "Wholesale" and "Engineering" must be approved by the appropriate state department or agency.

Member/Manager information

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

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

Requirements for the Articles of Organization

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

Professional services businesses

North Carolina 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 North Carolina LLCs.

LLC taxes and fees

The following are taxation requirements and ongoing fees for North Carolina LLCs:

• Annual report. North Carolina requires LLCs to file an annual report, which is due on or before April 15. The cost is $200.
• Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for North Carolina LLCs, visit Business Owner's Toolkit or the State of North Carolina .
• 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. North Carolina 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 North Carolina information

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

• North Carolina 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