LLC - LP FAQs

What legal documents do I need to form an LLC?

There are three basic documents you'll need to create and file in the formation of your LLC. The first is your LLC's articles of organization, usually a one-page form that states the name of your LLC, the purpose of your LLC, your registered agent and the names or your members or managers if they're known at the time of filing. This document, sometimes known as a Certificate of Formation, must be filed with the Secretary of State or similar state agency in your chosen state or states. Unless you're a single-member LLC, it's sound business to have all the LLC partners to draw up an operating agreement. Although entering into this type of contract, which defines and delineates issues that include ownership percentages and responsibilities in the running of the LLC, it could prevent confusion and misunderstanding down the line. You will also probably need to apply for a federal taxpayer ID number for tax purposes.