Average Time to Form an LLC

In most cases, you can form an LLC in a few days to a few weeks. But the exact timeline depends on several factors, including:

• The state where you’re forming your LLC
• Whether you file online or by mail
• Whether you choose standard or expedited processing
• The accuracy of your application

Some states process online filings in as little as 1–2 business days, while others take longer—especially for paper submissions. The average LLC filing time, across all states, is 4.2 business days when filing online and 9.5 business days, plus mailing time, when filing by mail.

State LLC filing times

State	Online Filing Time	Mail Filing Time (Plus mailing time)	Fastest Expedited Option
Alabama	1–2 business days	1–2 business days	24 hours ($25)
Alaska	Immediate	10–15 business days	2–3 days ($50)
Arizona	14–16 business days	14–16 business days	3–5 days ($35)
Arkansas	3–7 business days	2–3 weeks	1–2 days ($50)
California	8 business days	8 business days	24 hours ($350)
Colorado	Immediate	Not available	24 hours ($25)
Connecticut	2–3 business days	7–10 business days	24 hours ($50)
Delaware	10 business days	10 business days	24 hours ($100)
District of Columbia	5 business days	2–4 weeks	2–3 days ($100)
Florida	5 business days	12 business days	1–2 days ($30)
Georgia	7–10 business days	15 business days	1 day ($100)
Hawaii	7–10 business days	7–10 business days	2–3 days ($25)
Idaho	5–7 business days	5–7 business days	24 hours ($20)
Illinois	5–10 business days	7–14 business days	24 hours ($50)
Indiana	1 business day	5 business days	Same day ($20)
Iowa	1 business day	7–10 business days	24 hours ($50)
Kansas	Immediate	2–3 business days	24 hours ($35)
Kentucky	Immediate	1 business day	Same day ($50)
Louisiana	3–5 business days	3–5 business days	24 hours ($30)
Maine	Not available	10–15 business days	2–3 days ($50)
Maryland	2 weeks	5–8 weeks	1 week ($100)
Massachusetts	1–2 business days	1–2 business days	24 hours ($50)
Michigan	10 business days	10 business days	2–3 days ($50)
Minnesota	Immediate	11–12 business days	24 hours ($25)
Mississippi	1–2 business days	Not available	24 hours ($50)
Missouri	Immediate	3–4 weeks	1–2 days ($100)
Montana	5–6 business days	Not available	24 hours ($25)
Nebraska	2–3 business days	2–3 business days	24 hours ($30)
Nevada	1 business day	3–4 weeks	24 hours ($125)
New Hampshire	7–10 business days	7–10 business days	2–3 days ($50)
New Jersey	1 business day	5–7 business days	Same day ($50)
New Mexico	1–3 business days	15–20 business days	24 hours ($25)
New York	Immediate	2–3 weeks	Same day ($25)
North Carolina	2–5 business days	2–5 business days	24 hours ($100)
North Dakota	5 business days	5 business days	24 hours ($50)
Ohio	1 business day	1 business day	Same day ($100)
Oklahoma	2–3 business days	5–7 business days	24 hours ($25)
Oregon	2–3 business days	4–6 weeks	24 hours ($50)
Pennsylvania	5–7 business days	5–7 business days	24 hours ($100)
Rhode Island	3–4 business days	3–4 business days	24 hours ($50)
South Carolina	1–2 business days	3–4 business days	24 hours ($25)
South Dakota	Immediate	1–2 business days	Same day ($50)
Tennessee	Immediate	3–5 business days	24 hours ($100)
Texas	13–15 business days	4–8 weeks	2–3 days ($25)
Utah	7–10 business days	7–10 business days	1–2 business days ($75)
Vermont	Less than 1 business day	7–10 business days	Not available
Virginia	3–12 business days	3–12 business days	Same day ($200)
Washington	Typically within 5 business days	5 business days	Same day ($150)
West Virginia	5–10 business days	5–10 business days	1 hour ($500)
Wisconsin	1–3 business days	5–10 business days	1–2 days ($35)
Wyoming	2–3 business days	Up to 15 business days	Not available

Note: The expedited LLC filing fees are approximate and can vary based on specific state requirements and additional services. It’s advisable to check with the respective state’s Secretary of State office or official website for the most current information.

What Affects the Timeline?

State Processing Times

Each state has its own filing system, backlog, and pace. Some have streamlined online portals with fast turnaround times. Others may still rely on manual processes that take longer. You’ll want to check with your state’s Secretary of State website for specific expectations (or use a formation service that tracks this for you).

Filing Method: Online vs. Mail

Filing online is typically the fastest option. Many states process online applications faster because they enter directly into the digital workflow. Mail filings not only take longer to arrive, but they also go through manual data entry and physical processing, which can add several days or even weeks.

Expedited Processing

Most states offer an expedited filing service for an additional fee. This can reduce processing time to just 1–3 business days (or even same-day in some cases). This option is especially helpful if you’re in a hurry to launch or secure a business name.

Errors or Rejected Filings

Mistakes in your application, like a missing address, typo in your business name, or selecting the wrong business type—can lead to rejection or delays. In these cases, you’ll need to correct and resubmit the paperwork, which resets the clock.

High Volume Periods

Around the end of the year or tax season, state offices can get overwhelmed with filings. During these times, even online applications may be delayed due to the backlog.

What Can You Do to Speed Things Up?

If you want to get your LLC formed quickly and with as few hiccups as possible, here are a few smart steps to follow:

File Online Whenever Possible

Online filing is almost always faster, more accurate, and easier to track.

Use a Formation Service Like Tailor Brands

Professional services like Tailor Brands can help you file your LLC accurately, track your application, and ensure you don’t miss any required steps. You’ll save time and avoid common mistakes that lead to delays.

Check Name Availability First

Before filing, use a business name search tool to make sure your desired name is available in your state. Filing with a name that’s already taken will lead to rejection.

Submit a Complete and Accurate Application

Double-check all your information before submitting your forms. That includes your business name, address, registered agent details, and business purpose.

Consider Expedited Processing

If time is critical, paying a small fee for expedited service can be well worth it. Fees vary by state and speed at which you want it processed.

When Can You Start Operating Your Business?

It’s important to know that just submitting your LLC paperwork doesn’t mean you can immediately start doing business. Here are a few milestones you’ll likely need to hit first:

• LLC Formation Approved: Wait until the state officially approves your LLC.
• EIN Issued: Most businesses need an Employer Identification Number from the IRS, which you can usually get the same day online.
• Business Licenses or Permits: Depending on your location and industry, you may need to apply for licenses before operating.
• Business Bank Account: You’ll typically need a finalized LLC and EIN to open a business bank account.

Why Work with Tailor Brands?

Forming your LLC can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to get it done quickly and correctly. That’s where Tailor Brands can help.

• All-in-One LLC Formation: We handle the paperwork so you can focus on launching.
• Fast and Accurate Filing: We reduce delays by ensuring your documents are complete.
• Real-Time Tracking: Know exactly where your LLC stands at every step.
• Ongoing Support: From EIN setup to operating agreements and compliance reminders, we’ve got your back.

Final Thoughts

So, how long does it take to form an LLC? The answer depends on where and how you file, but for most people, it’s a process that takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward building your business, don’t let paperwork hold you back.