How to Start an LLC in Idaho

(2025 Guide)

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🏞️ How to Start an LLC in Idaho: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Want to form an LLC in Idaho? Learn how to start an LLC in Idaho with 7 simple steps. Includes state filing fees, EIN, annual reports, and more.

🤔 Why Form an LLC in Idaho?

Starting an LLC in Idaho offers you legal protection, pass-through taxation, and business credibility. Whether you’re launching a business in Boise or Coeur d’Alene, this guide will show you exactly how to form an LLC in Idaho the right way.

Benefit Description
💼 Simple Compliance
No annual filing fees, easy reporting
🧾 Tax Flexibility
Choose pass-through or corporate taxation
🛡️ Liability Protection
Separates personal and business liabilities
🧠 Local Business Support
Friendly environment for startups and small businesses
⚙️ Flexible Management
Member-managed or manager-managed allowed

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.)

🧭 Step-by-Step Guide to Form an LLC in Idaho

1. 🏷️ Choose a Name for Your Idaho LLC

Your LLC name must:How to Start an LLC in Idaho

  • Be distinguishable from existing entities in Idaho

  • Include “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation like “LLC”

  • Not contain restricted words (like “Bank” or “Attorney”) without approval

📁 Check name availability at the Idaho Business Search.

2. 🧑‍💼 Select a Registered Agent in Idaho

Idaho registered agent requirements

Every Idaho LLC must have a registered agent with a physical address in Idaho.

You can choose:

  • Yourself (if you’re a resident with an Idaho address)

  • Another individual

  • A professional registered agent service

💡 A registered agent is responsible for receiving legal notices and official mail.

Special offer: 

Start an LLC in Arizona with Northwest for $39 + state fee and get a free year of Registered Agent service.

(Read our Northwest Registered Agent review.)

3. 📝 File the Certificate of Organization

To officially form your LLC, file the Certificate of Organization with the Idaho Secretary of State.Idaho Secretary of State Certificate of Organization

  • Fee: $100 online, $120 by mail

  • Online Filing Portal: SOSbiz

  • Processing Time: 1–3 business days (online), 7–10 days (mail)

4. 📃 Draft an Idaho LLC Operating Agreement

This internal document outlines:Steps to start an LLC in Idaho

  • Member roles and responsibilities

  • Ownership percentages

  • Profit-sharing and voting rights

🛑 Idaho doesn’t require it by law, but it’s highly recommended—especially 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)

An EIN is like a Social Security number for your business.

It’s required for:EIN application for Idaho LLC”

  • Opening a business bank account

  • Filing federal/state taxes

  • Hiring employees

🆓 Apply online for free at irs.gov.

6. 📜 Obtain Idaho Business Licenses

GET License for Hawaii LLC

Idaho doesn’t have a general statewide business license, but you may need:

  • A local business license from your city or county

  • Specialty or professional licenses based on your business activity

  • A seller’s permit if selling taxable goods/services

🔎 Use the Idaho.gov Business Wizard to determine your licensing requirements.

7. 💼 Open a Business Bank Account

Idaho business bank account setupKeep personal and business finances separate. You’ll need:

  • EIN

  • Certificate of Formation

  • Operating Agreement

8. 📆 File the Idaho LLC Annual Report

LLC formation process in Hawaii

Every LLC must file an Annual Report with the Idaho Secretary of State.

  • Due: By the end of the LLC’s anniversary month

  • Filing Fee: $0 (Yes, it’s free!)

  • File at: SOSbiz Portal

Failure to file can result in your LLC being administratively dissolved.

🔍 People Also Ask

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

$100 online or $120 by paper.

Online filings are processed in 1–3 business days.

💰 Idaho LLC Cost Breakdown (2025)

Expense Type Cost
Articles of Organization
$100 (online)
Registered Agent (annual)
$50–$150
EIN
Free
Operating Agreement
Free (DIY)
Idaho Business Licenses
Varies
Annual Report
Free

🏛️ Idaho Secretary of State Contact

  • Office: Idaho Secretary of State – Business Division

  • Phone: (208) 334-2301

  • Email: sosinfo@sos.idaho.gov

  • Mailing Address:
    Office of the Secretary of State
    450 N 4th Street
    PO Box 83720
    Boise, ID 83720-0080

  • Website: https://sos.idaho.gov

❓ FAQs - Idaho LLC

1. Is there an annual fee for Idaho LLCs?

No, Idaho LLCs file annual reports for free.

Yes, all Idaho LLCs must appoint a registered agent with an in-state address.

Not legally, but it’s highly recommended for internal governance and legal protection.

Yes, especially if you plan to open a bank account or hire employees.

Some cities/counties may require local licenses. Always check with your municipality.

Yes, there are no residency requirements to start an LLC in Idaho.

Yes. You can file a name reservation for $20, valid for 4 months.

Annual reports are filed online through sosbiz.idaho.gov and are free.

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