Start an LLC in Virginia

Before anything else, you need to name your LLC. Your LLC’s name should follow state laws (like being unique among Virginia businesses) while also working from a marketing standpoint. Here are some steps to take.

• Perform a Virginia business name search to see if your name has already been taken.
• Look up available domain names to find one that matches or at least complements your business name.
• At the federal level, check the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database to make sure nothing too similar is already in use.

Don’t forget that your name also needs an indicator like limited liability company or LLC.

A website domain that matches your business name improves search engine visibility, which means more customers will hear about your business when searching online. Northwest makes it easy to get a domain. In fact, anyone who hires us to form their Virginia LLC will get:

• Instant domain registration
• A customizable business website that’s kept safe with top-shelf SSL security
• A business email address that lets you communicate with clients immediately
• A local phone number with local area code
• Brand Protection

Want more? Our friendly Corporate Guides® can help you with any questions you might have about a filing or form.

All Virginia LLCs must have a registered agent. A registered agent is someone who can accept legal and state mail on behalf of your business. You must list your registered agent’s information on your Articles of Organization, so you’ll need one before you can form your LLC.

A registered agent must meet the following requirements:

• Have a Virginia business address

• Be available during regular business hours

• Accept state and legal mail on behalf of your LLC and get them to you quickly

Your Virginia registered agent can be an individual or a business.

Registering your LLC with the state of Virginia requires you to file the a form called the Virginia Articles of Organization with the State Corporations Commission. It costs $100 to file.

Provide the following information on your Virginia Articles of Organization:

• Company name: Make sure to add an indicator such as limited company, LLC, or L.L.C.
• Registered agent name: List the name of your registered agent
• Registered agent address: This should be a street address in most cases, though there are exceptions for rural areas and cities with less than 2,000 people.
• Principal address: A street address is required (it can be located outside Virginia)
• Organizer’s name and signature: This is simply the person who signs and files your Articles of Organization. They don’t need to be associated with your business. If you hire us, we sign here.

Note:  All of the information on your LLC formation documents becomes part of the public record.

An operating agreement is an internal document that details pretty much everything about how your business will be run. Among other things, it should cover how to handle membership disputes, how the LLC voting will work, and how membership interests will be distributed,.

Writing an operating agreement isn’t something that comes naturally. You should consult a lawyer or use our free Virginia LLC Operating Agreement Template.

To get an EIN (Employer Identification number), you can go to the IRS website and complete an application. To do this, you’ll have to give the IRS your Social Security number. If you don’t have a Social Security number, you’ll need to fill out a paper form and mail it.

Your Virginia LLC won’t be able to operate without money. To maintain your limited liability, you’ll need to open a business bank account, as it’s not good form to mix personal member accounts and LLC accounts.

Unlike most states, Virginia does not require you to file an annual report. But you must pay a $50 annual registration fee to the State Corporation Commission. The fee is due at the end of your LLC’s anniversary month.