Is a registered agent required for a Colorado LLC?

Yes, every LLC in Colorado must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state.

Do I need to file an annual report for a Colorado LLC?

Yes, LLCs must file a Periodic Report each year with a $10 fee.

How to Start an LLC in Colorado

Q: How much does it cost to start an LLC in Colorado?

It costs $50 to file the Articles of Organization online with the Colorado Secretary of State.

(2025 Guide)

Home >Colorado LLC

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🌄 How to Start an LLC in Colorado (Step-by-Step 2025 Guide)

Learn how to start an LLC in Colorado with our 2025 step-by-step guide. Includes filing fees, naming tips, registered agent info, and FAQs. Start your Colorado LLC today.

🤔 Why Form an LLC in Colorado?

A Colorado LLC offers asset protection, flexible tax options, and simple compliance—all with low startup costs. Whether you’re launching a local business in Denver or an online venture, Colorado is one of the most entrepreneur-friendly states in the U.S.

Let’s walk through how to start an LLC in Colorado with all the state-specific steps, fees, and forms.

Benefit	Description
🛡️ Limited Liability Protection	Protects personal assets from business debts and lawsuits
💰 Pass-Through Taxation	No double taxation on income
🚀 Easy & Fast Online Filing	Immediate approval through the Colorado SOS portal
📉 Low Annual Fees	Only $10 to file your yearly Periodic Report
📈 Business-Friendly Environment	Ranked among the top U.S. states for startups and entrepreneurs

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(See why Northwest is #1: Northwest vs LegalZoom.)

🧭 Step-by-Step: Forming Your Colorado LLC

1. 🏷️ Choose a Name for Your Colorado LLC

Your name must:

Be unique from existing CO business entities
Include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
Avoid restricted terms (like “bank,” “insurance,” etc.)

📌 Use the Colorado Business Name Search Tool to confirm availability.

2. 🧑‍💼 Appoint a Colorado Registered Agent

A registered agent receives legal papers and official mail for your LLC.

Requirements:

Must have a physical Colorado address
Be available during normal business hours
Can be you, another member, or a commercial agent

📌 Consider hiring a professional agent for privacy and convenience.

Special offer:

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(Read our Northwest Registered Agent review.)

3. 📝 File Colorado Articles of Organization Online

File your Articles of Organization with the Colorado Secretary of State:

Fee: $50
Processing Time: Immediate (online only)
File Online: Colorado Secretary of State Business Portal

4. 📃 Draft an LLC Operating Agreement

Colorado doesn’t require this, but it’s vital for:

Defining ownership and responsibilities
Avoiding future conflicts
Strengthening your legal protection

✔️ Especially recommended for multi-member LLCs.

Download a free LLC Operating Agreement:

Member-managed: Google Doc | Word | PDF
Manager-managed: Google Doc | Word

(What’s better? See Member-managed vs Manager-managed LLC)

5. 🆔 Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

You need an EIN to:

Open a business bank account
Hire employees
Pay federal and state taxes

✅ Apply for free at irs.gov.

6. 🧾 File the Colorado Periodic Report

Due annually
Fee: $10
File online via the Colorado Business Center

📌 This keeps your LLC in good standing with the state.

7. 🪪 Obtain Required Business Licenses or Permits

Colorado doesn’t have a statewide general business license
But local cities/counties may require licenses or permits (check with local authorities)
Industry-specific licenses may apply

🔍 People Also Ask

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Colorado?

The initial filing fee is $50. There’s also a $10 annual report fee.

How fast can I form a Colorado LLC?

You can form an LLC immediately via online filing with the Secretary of State.

💵 Colorado LLC Costs (2025)

Item	Fee
Articles of Organization	$50
Registered Agent (optional)	$50–$150
EIN	Free
Operating Agreement	Free (DIY)
Periodic Report (annual)	$10

🏛️ Colorado Secretary of State Contact

🌐 www.sos.state.co.us
📞 (303) 894-2200
📍 1700 Broadway, Suite 550, Denver, CO 80290

❓ FAQs: People Also Ask

1. Can I file my Colorado LLC online?

Yes. All Colorado LLC filings must be submitted online.

2. Is a registered agent required in Colorado?

Yes, every LLC must maintain a registered agent with a Colorado address.

3. Do I need an operating agreement in Colorado?

It’s not required by law, but highly recommended to protect your business.

4. What is the annual filing requirement for a Colorado LLC?

You must file a Periodic Report annually with a $10 fee.

5. Can I be my own registered agent in Colorado?

Yes, if you have a Colorado street address and are available during business hours.

6. Do I need a business license in Colorado?

Not statewide—but local cities or counties may require licenses.

7. Does a Colorado LLC pay state taxes?

LLCs typically pass-through taxes to members, but some may elect corporate taxation.

8. Is an EIN mandatory for a single-member LLC in Colorado?

Yes, if you have employees or choose to be taxed as a corporation.

About Us

We specialize in guiding individuals through the process of forming LLCs across all states, while also offering a range of comprehensive business services tailored to entrepreneurs.