How Long Does it Take to Get an LLC?
(2025 Guide)
- By
Ahmad Adil - updatedJuly 6, 2025
Deal alert! forms your LLC with Northwest for $39 (60% off). Details inside.
If you’re ready to launch your business, you probably want your LLC set up as quickly as possible. So let’s get straight to it:
How long does it take to get an LLC?
The answer depends on a few things:
🗺️ Which state you’re forming your LLC in
💻 Whether you file online or by mail
🚀 If you choose any expedited options (not available in all states)
In this guide, you’ll find a complete, up-to-date table of LLC approval times by state for both online and mail filings — plus, we’ll explain what “LLC processing time” really means and how long each step typically takes.
Let’s dive in 👇
📊 State-by-State LLC Processing Times (2025)
Here’s how long it typically takes to get an LLC approved in each state — depending on the filing method.
| State | Online Filing | Mail Filing |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | immediately | 1-2 business days (plus mail time) |
| Alaska | immediately | 10-15 business days (plus mail time) |
| Arizona | 14-16 business days | 14-16 business days (plus mail time) |
| Arkansas | 3-7 business days | 2-3 weeks (plus mail time) |
| California | 8 business days | 8 business days (plus mail time) |
| Colorado | immediately | NO MAIL FILINGS |
| Connecticut | 2-3 business days | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Delaware | 10 business days | 10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Florida | 5 business days | 12 business days (plus mail time) |
| Georgia | 7-10 business days | 15 business days (plus mail time) |
| Hawaii | $57-10 business days0 | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Idaho | 5-7 business days | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) |
| Illinois | 5-10 business days | 7-14 business days (plus mail time) |
| Indiana | 1 business day | 5 business days (plus mail time) |
| Iowa | 1 business day | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Kansas | immediately | 2-3 business days (plus mail time) |
| Kentucky | immediately | 1 business day (plus mail time) |
| Louisiana | 3-5 business days | 3-5 business days (plus mail time) |
| Maine | NO ONLINE FILINGS | 10-15 business days (plus mail time) |
| Maryland | 2 weeks | 5-8 weeks (plus mail time) |
| Massachusetts | 1-2 business days | 1-2 business days (plus mail time) |
| Michigan | 10 business days | 10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Minnesota | immediately | 11-12 business days (plus mail time) |
| Mississippi | 1-2 business days | NO MAIL FILINGS |
| Missouri | immediately | 3-4 weeks (plus mail time) |
| Montana | 5-6 business days | NO MAIL FILINGS |
| Nebraska | 2-3 business days | 2-3 business days (plus mail time) |
| Nevada | 1 business day | 3-4 weeks (plus mail time) |
| New Hampshire | 7-10 business days | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) |
| New Jersey | 1 business day | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) |
| New Mexico | 1-3 business days | 15-20 business days |
| New York | immediately | 2-3 weeks (plus mail time) |
| North Carolina | 2-5 business days | 2-5 business days (plus mail time) |
| North Dakota | 5 business days | 5 business days (plus mail time) |
| Ohio | 1 business day | 1 business day (plus mail time) |
| Oklahoma | 2-3 business days | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) |
| Oregon | 2-3 business days | 4-6 weeks (plus mail time) |
| Pennsylvania | 5-7 days | 5-7 days (plus mail time) |
| Rhode Island | 3-4 business days | 3-4 business days (plus mail time) |
| South Carolina | 1-2 business days | 3-4 business days (plus mail time) |
| South Dakota | immediately | 1-2 business days (plus mail time) |
| Tennessee | immediately | 3-5 business days (plus mail time) |
| Texas | 13-15 business days | 4-8 weeks (plus mail time) |
| Utah | 7-10 business days | 7-10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Vermont | 1 business day | 5-7 business days (plus mail time) |
| Virginia | 2-5 business days | 2-5 business days (plus mail time) |
| Washington | 12-14 business days | 5-6 weeks (plus mail time) |
| West Virginia | 5-10 business days | 5-10 business days (plus mail time) |
| Wisconsin | immediately | 5 business days (plus mail time) |
| Wyoming | immediately | 10-15 business days (plus mail time) |
What Is LLC Processing Time?
LLC processing time refers to how long it takes your state government to review your LLC documents and enter them into their system. It starts once they receive your paperwork — not when you mail it or submit it online.
So, LLC processing time ≠ LLC approval time.
Your formation documents are accepted
You receive a stamped or approved copy from the state
You’re listed in the state’s LLC records or portal
What Is LLC Approval Time?
LLC approval time is the total time from submitting your application to receiving your official formation documents back. It includes:
Transit time to the state (mail)
State processing time
Transit time back (mail), or download if online
🕒 For example:
Mail: Filing + 1 week to reach the state + 2 weeks processing + 1 week return = ~4 weeks
Online: ~1–10 business days total
If you’re wondering how fast can I get an LLC, the fastest states with immediate approval online include:
Colorado
Ohio
Kentucky
Wyoming
South Dakota
🔎 Most states process online filings much faster than paper/mail.
Does Hiring an LLC Filing Service Speed Up the Process?
No — filing services can’t speed up LLC approval time. They still have to wait for the state just like everyone else.
So what’s the benefit?
✅ Filing services handle the paperwork for you
✅ Reduce the risk of errors or rejections
✅ Some offer Registered Agent services, EIN help, and address privacy
[External link: Best LLC Services Compared for 2025]
💬 Wondering “should I hire someone or do it myself?” If you’re comfortable following state instructions, DIY can save money. But if you’re in a hurry or want help, services like Northwest Registered Agent are a reliable option.
Need to save time? Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee) or LegalZoom ($149 + state fee).
(See why Northwest is #1: Northwest vs LegalZoom.)
How to Get Your LLC Faster
✅ File online – Avoid the mail unless required
✅ Double-check your paperwork – Avoid rejections
✅ Use expedited filing – If your state offers it
✅ Avoid peak periods – January to March are busiest
✅ Hire a formation service – Many file the same day
After Approval: What’s Next?
Once your LLC is approved, complete the following steps:
🧾 Create an Operating Agreement
🏦 Open a business bank account
🆔 Get an EIN from the IRS (free)
🛡️ Appoint a Registered Agent
🧑💼 Check for state-specific requirements (e.g., publication in NY)
❓ FAQs: How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC?
1. How long does it take to get an LLC approved in 2025?
It depends on your state. In most cases:
Online filings: 1–10 business days (some instantly)
Mail filings: 2–5 weeks total (including mailing time)
2. Is there any way to speed up LLC approval time?
Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. Otherwise, the fastest route is filing online directly with your state’s website.
3. What’s the difference between LLC processing time and approval time?
Processing time is just the state’s internal review period. Approval time includes everything — mailing to/from the state and their review time.
4. How fast can I get an LLC if I need one ASAP?
States like Ohio, Colorado, Kentucky, and Wyoming process online LLC filings immediately. These are your best bets if you’re in a rush.
5. Will using an LLC service get me approved faster?
Nope. They still follow the same timelines as everyone else. Their value is in accuracy, convenience, and privacy protection, not speed.
