Georgia’s Initial Annual Registration Explained

Most business entities that register with the state must file an annual registration (known in most states as an “annual report”) in order to remain in good standing with the state. In Georgia, corporations are also required to file what’s known as “initial annual registration.” Here’s what you need to know:

What is Georgia’s annual registration?

In general, Georgia’s Annual Registration requires corporations and LLCs to fill out a form with basic information about the business (i.e. contact info, business address, officer names and addresses) and pay a fee. This process allows you to update state records with any organizational changes you’ve made to your business in this regard. But most importantly, according to the GA Secretary of State, the annual registration simply “confirms that the entity still exists.”

Why is there also an “initial” annual registration?

All newly formed corporations in Georgia (whether for profit or non-profit) must file what’s known as “initial annual registration” within 90 days of formation—this is in addition to the regular annual registration, which is filed between January 1 and April 1 each year.

The only exception is corporations that form after October 1. Such corporations will only be required to file their regular annual registration.

How much does annual registration cost?

Online filings cost $50 ($30 for non-profits), while paper filings cost $60 ($40 for non-profits). Late fees will cost you an additional $25.