Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island LLC

At BizFilings, we clearly outline our fees and the Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island LLC

LLC Name

The LLC name must end with "Limited Liability Company," "LLC" or "L.L.C." The name must not be deceptively similar to that of any domestic or foreign LLC authorized to do business in the state or to any reserved or registered name unless written consent is obtained from the holder of such name. It may not contain any word implying the LLC was formed for a purpose for which it is not organized.

Member/Manager information

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

• Minimum number. LLCs must have one or more members/managers.
• Residence requirements. Rhode Island does not have a provision specifying where members/managers must reside.
• Age requirements. Rhode Island does not have age requirements.
• Inclusion in the Articles of Organization. If the LLC is managed by managers, the names and addresses of the managers are required to be listed in the Articles of Organization.

Requirements for the Articles of Organization

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

Professional services businesses

Rhode Island does not allow professionals, such as accountants, attorneys and physicians, to form a professional limited liability company (PLLC) ; however, professionals can incorporate as an LLC.

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 Rhode Island LLCs.

LLC taxes and fees

The following are taxation requirements and ongoing fees for Rhode Island LLCs:

• Annual report. Rhode Island requires LLCs to file an annual report by November 1. The filing fee is $50.
• Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for Rhode Island LLCs, visit Business Owner's Toolkit or the State of Rhode Island .
• 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. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island information

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

• Rhode Island 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