South 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 South Carolina LLC

At BizFilings, we clearly outline our fees and the South 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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina LLC

LLC name

The LLC name must end with "Limited Liability Company," "Limited Company," "Ltd. Co.," "LC," "LLC" or "L.L.C." The name cannot contain language indicating a purpose other than that permitted by state law and the Articles of Organization. It must be distinguishable upon records of the Secretary of State from the name of a domestic or qualified foreign LLC or reserved or registered LLC name.

Member/Manager information

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

• Minimum number. LLCs must have one or more members/managers.
• Residence requirements. South Carolina does not have a provision specifying where members/managers must reside.
• Age requirements. South Carolina does not have age requirements.
• Inclusion in the Articles of Organization. Members are not required to be listed in the Articles of Organization, but managers are.

Requirements for the Articles of Organization

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

Professional services businesses

South Carolina 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 South Carolina LLCs.

LLC taxes and fees

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

• Annual report. South Carolina does not require LLCs to file an annual report.
• Taxes. For complete details on state taxes for South Carolina LLCs, visit Business Owner's Toolkit or the State of South 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. South 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 South Carolina information

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

• South 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