🌵 How to Start an LLC in Arizona (Step-by-Step) 2025 Guide
Thinking of how to start an LLC in Arizona? You’re on the right track! Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the Grand Canyon State offers significant benefits, including personal liability protection. This complete step-by-step guide for 2025 will walk you through the entire Arizona LLC formation process.
To officially launch your Arizona LLC, the core requirement is filing Articles of Organization Arizona with the Arizona Corporation Commission. This crucial filing costs $50 and typically takes 14-16 days for approval.
Ready to get started? Follow these 6 essential steps to successfully start an LLC in Arizona:
- ✅ Choose an LLC Name: Secure a unique identity for your business.
- ➡️ Select a Registered Agent: Designate who will receive official correspondence.
- 📄 File Articles of Organization: Officially register your LLC with the state.
- 📰 Complete the Publication Requirement: Fulfill a unique Arizona-specific legal notice.
- ✍️ Create an Operating Agreement: Define your LLC’s ownership and operational rules.
- 🔢 Get an EIN: Obtain your federal tax ID for tax and banking purposes.
Whether you prefer to handle your Arizona LLC formation yourself with our free guide below, or you’d rather hire a company to manage it for you (we highly recommend Northwest Registered Agent), we’ve got you covered!
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Arizona?
Before diving into the steps, let’s break down the LLC costs Arizona you can expect when starting an LLC in Arizona:
- Articles of Organization Filing Fee: $50 (This is the one-time fee paid to the Arizona Corporation Commission to create your LLC.)
- Newspaper Publication Costs: Typically $60 – $120 (for running the required ad, if applicable to your county).
- Annual Report/Ongoing Fees: Arizona does not have an annual report fee or ongoing state fees paid to the Corporation Commission, but you’ll have ongoing costs like your Arizona Business License (if required) and potential Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax.
For a more detailed breakdown of all potential LLC costs Arizona, see our comprehensive guide: LLC Costs in Arizona (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
How Long Does it Take to Get an LLC in Arizona?
The time it takes to get an LLC in Arizona depends on your filing method and the Arizona Corporation Commission’s processing times:
- Online Filing: If you file your Articles of Organization Arizona online, approval typically takes 14-16 business days.
- Mail Filing: If you choose to file your LLC by mail, expect approval in 14-16 business days as well, plus additional time for mail transit.
Please see our dedicated guide on How long does it take to get an LLC in Arizona (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL) to check for any current processing delays with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
🤔 Why Start an LLC in Arizona?
Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Arizona offers flexible business structure, asset protection, and tax benefits. This guide walks you through how to start an LLC in Arizona, whether you’re launching your first business or expanding.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
|
🛡️ Asset Protection |
Separates your personal assets from business liabilities |
|
🧾 No Annual Reports |
Simplifies ongoing compliance |
|
💰 Affordable Startup |
Low formation and maintenance fees |
|
📍 Local Friendly |
Ideal for home-based and small businesses in AZ |
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Start an Arizona LLC
1. 📝 Search Your Arizona LLC Name
The very first and crucial step when learning how to start an LLC in Arizona is to ensure your desired business name is available and compliant. Why is this so important? Because two businesses in Arizona cannot operate under the exact same name!
To verify your Arizona LLC name availability and uniqueness:
- Search Existing Businesses: Utilize the Arizona Corporation Commission’s Business Entity Search (External Link – Verify actual URL) to compare your chosen name against existing registered entities.
- Understand Naming Rules: Familiarize yourself with Arizona’s specific LLC naming rules to ensure your chosen name will be approved. This includes requirements like including “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” in the name.
(Internal Link Suggestion: Consider linking to a dedicated article on “Arizona LLC Name Availability” or “Arizona LLC Naming Rules” if you have one.)
2. 🧑💼 Choose an Arizona Registered Agent
The next vital step in Arizona LLC formation is selecting an Arizona Registered Agent. This is a designated person or company who accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your Limited Liability Company. Think of them as your LLC’s official point of contact.
Important Note: In Arizona, a Registered Agent is also commonly referred to as a Statutory Agent. We may use either term interchangeably.
Who can be an LLC Statutory Agent in Arizona? You have 3 primary options:
- You: If you have a physical street address in Arizona.
- A Friend or Family Member: They must also have a physical street address in Arizona.
- A Registered Agent Service: A professional company that provides this service.
Crucial Requirement: The Statutory Agent for your Arizona LLC must have a physical street address in Arizona; P.O. Boxes are not permitted. Additionally, your Statutory Agent’s name and address will be listed on public records.
If you don’t have an address in Arizona, or if you prioritize privacy and want to keep your personal address off public records, you can hire a Registered Agent Service for your LLC.
Our Top Recommendation: Northwest Registered Agent ⭐
We consistently recommend Northwest Registered Agent for their exceptional service and privacy-focused features. Our favorite benefit is their allowance to use their office address throughout your LLC filing, helping you keep your address off public records. They also conveniently scan and upload any mail sent for your LLC directly to your secure online account.
Northwest boasts excellent customer service and is the trusted provider we use for our own Statutory Agent needs.
3. 📄 File Arizona LLC Articles of Organization
To officially start an LLC in Arizona, you need to file your Articles of Organization Arizona with the Arizona Corporation Commission. This document formally creates your Limited Liability Company in the state.
- Cost: The Arizona Articles of Organization costs $50 if you file online.
- Nature: This is a one-time fee to legally establish your LLC.
You have a choice for filing:
- File it yourself: For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our detailed guide: Arizona Articles of Organization (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
- Hire a company: Professional services can handle this filing on your behalf, often as part of a package deal.
4. 📢 Complete the Arizona LLC Publication Requirement
Arizona stands out as one of only 3 states that mandate Limited Liability Companies to publish an advertisement in a newspaper after they are formed. The original intent of this Arizona LLC Publication Requirement was to “notify the public” that you were forming a new business.
While newspaper ads might not be as impactful today, Arizona’s LLC law still requires new LLCs to run an ad in one newspaper for three consecutive runs. (Typically, three runs take about 1 to 2 weeks to complete.)
How much do the newspaper ads cost?
Average fees for your newspaper ads will typically range from $60 to $120. We highly recommend calling a couple of local newspapers in your county to check their current rates.
Where do I run the ads?
The newspaper selected for publication must be located in the same county as your LLC’s Statutory Agent address.
Important Exception: If the address of your Arizona Statutory Agent is located in Maricopa or Pima Counties, you are exempt from the newspaper publication requirement.
For more detailed information, please see our guide: Arizona LLC Publication Requirement (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
5. 🧾 Create an Arizona LLC Operating Agreement
An LLC Operating Agreement Arizona serves as a crucial “companion” document to the Articles of Organization. While the Articles of Organization officially creates your Arizona LLC, the Operating Agreement clearly shows who owns the LLC and how it will be managed and operated.
Beyond internal clarity, an Operating Agreement offers several significant benefits:
- Banking Requirements: Some banks require an Operating Agreement when you open an LLC bank account.
- Legal Protection: In the unfortunate event of a court dispute, having a well-drafted Operating Agreement helps prove that your LLC is being run properly, safeguarding your personal liability protection.
This is precisely why we strongly recommend that all LLCs have an Operating Agreement – including Single-Member LLCs, even though it might seem unnecessary for one owner.
Furthermore, an Operating Agreement is an “internal document.” This means you do not need to file it with the state or the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). Simply keep a copy securely with your business records.
(Internal Link Suggestion: Consider linking to your own article on “What is an LLC Operating Agreement?” or “Single-Member LLC Operating Agreement.”)
Download a free template for your LLC Operating Agreement Arizona below! (Action: Provide a link to your template here)
6. 🆔 Get an EIN for Your Arizona LLC
The next essential step after forming your LLC is to obtain an Arizona EIN Number from the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) for your Arizona LLC.
What is an EIN? An EIN Number is also commonly referred to as a Federal Tax Identification Number or a Federal Employer Identification Number. It’s akin to a Social Security Number for your business.
An EIN Number is used for several vital business activities:
- Tax Identification: It identifies your LLC for federal tax purposes.
- Banking: It’s required to open a business bank account for your LLC.
- Licensing & Permits: It’s often necessary when applying for various business licenses and permits.
EIN Cost & Timeframe
- Cost: Getting an EIN Number from the Internal Revenue Service is completely free! 🥳
- Time:
- If you apply online, it typically takes only 15 minutes.
- If you apply by mail or fax, the process can take significantly longer, from 1 to 3 months.
How to Get an EIN for Your LLC
The application method for your Arizona EIN Number depends on your residency status:
- US Citizens/US Residents: If you possess a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), you can apply for an EIN online. Follow these straightforward instructions: Apply for an EIN online (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
- Non-US Residents: If you do not have an SSN or ITIN, you cannot apply for an EIN online. However, you can still obtain one by fax or by mail. Follow these specific instructions: How to get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
🎉 What to Do After Your Arizona LLC is Approved?
Congratulations! After your Arizona LLC is officially approved, there are a few more crucial steps to ensure your business is fully operational and compliant.
🏦 Open an LLC Business Bank Account
This is a non-negotiable step for any Arizona LLC. You’ll want to open a dedicated business bank account for your LLC.
- Simplified Accounting: A separate account makes accounting and record-keeping for your business finances significantly easier.
- Personal Liability Protection: Having distinct business and personal bank accounts is essential for maintaining your personal liability protection. It clearly separates your business entity finances from your personal finances.
📄 Get Arizona Business Licenses and Permits
Good news for your Arizona LLC: Arizona does not have a statewide general business license requirement!
However, depending on where your LLC is located (city, county) and its specific business activities, you may need a local business license or permit.
Example: If you want to start a daycare in Arizona, you may need a business license from the city or county.
You can learn more on our comprehensive Arizona Business License page (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
💸 File and Pay Taxes
It’s a common misconception that LLCs pay federal taxes themselves. In reality, LLCs do not pay federal taxes directly. Instead, the LLC Members (owners) pay the taxes for the Limited Liability Company as part of their personal tax returns. This is known as “pass-through taxation.”
How Will My Arizona LLC Be Taxed?
By default, a Limited Liability Company is taxed by the IRS based on the number of owners it has:
- A Single-Member LLC is typically taxed like a Sole Proprietorship.
- A Multi-Member LLC is typically taxed like a Partnership.
Alternative Tax Election: Alternatively, you can ask the IRS to tax your LLC like a C-Corporation or an S-Corporation.
Married Couples in Arizona: Instead of having your LLC taxed as a Partnership, married couples can elect to be taxed as a Single-Member LLC (also known as a Qualified Joint Venture). This is allowed in Arizona because Arizona is a community property state.
Arizona State & Local Taxes
Besides federal taxes, be aware that there are also state and local taxes, including sales tax. In Arizona, sales tax is specifically called the Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax. This means it’s a tax you pay for the privilege of your business entity doing business in the state. To comply, you’ll need to get a Transaction Privilege Tax License from the Arizona Department of Revenue.
Learn more about your tax obligations in our detailed guide: Arizona LLC Taxes (Internal Link – Verify/insert your actual URL).
💰 Arizona LLC Filing Fees (2025)
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
|
Articles of Organization |
$50 |
|
Expedited Processing (optional) |
$35 |
|
Statutory Agent (if hired) |
~$49–$150 |
|
Notice of Publication (if required) |
~$60–$300 |
|
EIN from IRS |
Free |
🧾 Arizona LLC Contact Info
📍 Arizona Corporation Commission
📞 (602) 542-3026
📬 1300 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007
❓ FAQs - How to Start an LLC in Arizona
1. How much does it cost to start an LLC in Arizona?
The initial cost to start an LLC in Arizona is $50 for filing the Articles of Organization. You may also incur costs for the Arizona LLC Publication Requirement, typically $60-$120, if your LLC’s Statutory Agent is not in Maricopa or Pima Counties.
2. How long does it take to get an LLC in Arizona?
If you file your Articles of Organization Arizona online or by mail, it typically takes the Arizona Corporation Commission 14-16 business days for approval.
3. What is the Arizona LLC Publication Requirement?
Arizona is one of the few states that requires newly formed LLCs to publish an ad in a local newspaper for three runs. This must be done in the county where your Statutory Agent is located, unless that is Maricopa or Pima County, which are exempt.
4. Do I need an EIN for my Arizona LLC?
Yes, you will need an Arizona EIN Number (Federal Employer Identification Number) for your LLC. It’s required for tax purposes, opening a business bank account, and applying for certain licenses and permits. Getting an EIN online is free and takes about 15 minutes.
5. What is an Arizona Statutory Agent?
An Arizona Statutory Agent (also known as a Registered Agent) is a person or company designated to receive legal documents and official state notices on behalf of your LLC. They must have a physical street address in Arizona, and their information will be public record.