How to Form an LLC
In Nevada, there are two ways to apply for the registration of your LLC: online or by mail.
Option 1: File Online
Go to nvsilverflume.gov to access the state’s online filing system.
1. Find a Business Name
- Business Search: esos.nv.gov/entitysearch
Use Nevada’s Business Search engine to look up your desired business name. Under Advanced Search Options, select “Domestic LLC” or “Foreign LLC” depending on the type of LLC you are registering. If the words “No records found” appear, it most likely means that the name is available for use.
The name of a limited liability company must contain the words “Limited-Liability Company,” “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” or “Limited,” or the abbreviations “Ltd.,” “L.L.C.,” “L.C.,” “LLC” or “LC.” The word “Company” may be abbreviated as “Co.”[1]
2. Select a Registered Agent
Limited liability companies in Nevada are required to elect and maintain a registered agent for service of process. The agent’s street address is the registered office of the limited liability company in the state.[2]
3. Register the LLC
There are two ways to apply for the registration of your LLC: online or by mail.
Option 1: File Online
Go to nvsilverflume.gov/login to access the state’s Business Registration Filing System.
Provide your name, address, phone number, and email address to create a Silverflume account. You will also be prompted to create security questions. Activate your account by verifying your email.
Press the + button and select the type of LLC you want to register.
Click “Start” to begin filling out the form online.
Type in your desired business name or name reservation number and click “Search.” If it says the name is available, press “Next.”
Enter your registered agent’s name and use the search engine on the page to find your agent. Provide their updated address, phone number, and email.
Indicate whether your LLC will be managed by managers or members. Provide the names and addresses of each officer.
Provide the electronic signature, name, and address of each organizer in your LLC. Then provide a certificate of acceptance of appointment of your registered agent.
Option 2: File By Mail
Complete the appropriate form and send the document to the provided address with an enclosed payment.
Articles of Organization (Domestic LLC) – For in-state entities.
Filing fee: $75 check or money order made payable to the State of State. You can also pay by credit card.
Mailing address: Francisco V. Aguilar, Secretary of State
401 North Carson Street
Carson City, Nevada 89701-4201
Registration of Foreign Limited Liability Company – For out-of-state entities.
Filing fee: $75 check or money order made payable to the State of State. You can also pay by credit card.
Mailing address: Francisco V. Aguilar, Secretary of State
401 North Carson Street
Carson City, Nevada 89701-4201
4. Obtain an EIN
- Apply Online: www.irs.gov
- Apply by Fax/Mail: Form SS-4
Every LLC is required to apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) before it can begin operating.
5. Write an Operating Agreement
Although operating agreements are not legally required in Nevada, it can be helpful to create one to help the business run smoothly.
Download: PDF, MS Word, OpenDocument
6. Choose a Tax Classification
Below are the most common types of LLC tax classification:
- LLC – As an LLC, a sole proprietorship or partnership is considered a “pass-through entity,” which means all profits are taxed as income for the members/owners.
- S-Corporation – All business profits and losses are sent to the shareholders, who must pay income tax. To file as an S-corp, an LLC must file IRS Form 2553 within 75 days of formation.
- C-Corporation – All business profits and losses are filed as a separate corporate entity. To file as a C-corp, an LLC must file IRS Form 8832 within 75 days of formation.
7. File Annual List
Every LLC operating in Nevada must file an annual list each year on or before the last day of the month of their original formation date. This can be completed online or by mail.[3]