🍁How to Start an LLC in New Hampshire (Step-by-Step for 2025)
Learn how to start an LLC in New Hampshire in 2025. Step-by-step instructions on filing, costs, licenses, and more. Get started today with our expert guide.
🤔 Why Start an LLC in New Hampshire?
Forming a New Hampshire LLC is an excellent choice for business owners looking for flexibility, asset protection, and no state income tax on wages or salaries. The process is straightforward, and the state offers digital filing for convenience.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 🔒 Limited Liability Protection | Separates your personal and business assets. |
| 💼 No Business License Requirement | Most LLCs are not required to have a general business license. |
| 🧾 Flat Annual Report Fee | $100 annual report fee, due every year. |
| 💰 No State Sales Tax | New Hampshire does not charge a general sales tax. |
| 🏞️ Entrepreneur-Friendly State | Ranked among the top for economic opportunity and quality of life. |
🧭 Step-by-Step Guide to Forming a New Hampshire LLC
1. 🏷️ Choose Your New Hampshire LLC Name
Your LLC name must:
Must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
Must be distinguishable from all existing New Hampshire businesses
No misleading or restricted words
🔍 Search availability via the New Hampshire QuickStart portal
2. 🧑💼 Appoint a Registered Agent in New Hampshire
Your LLC must designate a New Hampshire registered agent.
Requirements:
Must be a New Hampshire resident or business authorized to operate in NH
Must maintain a physical address in the state (no P.O. Boxes)
Tip: You can act as your own agent if you meet these qualifications.
3. 📝 File the Articles of Organization with the New Hampshire Secretary of State
This document officially forms your LLC.
Filing Fee: $100
Filing Method: Online or mail
Processing Time: 3–5 business days (online is faster)
🔗 File through the NH QuickStart portal
4. 📄 Create a New Hampshire LLC Operating Agreement
While not required by state law, an Operating Agreement is vital for:
Clarifying member roles and responsibilities
Establishing profit-sharing and management structure
Strengthening your LLC’s legal standing
we offer free templates for both member-managed and manager-managed LLCs.
5. 🆔 Apply for an EIN
Your LLC needs an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS to:
Open a business bank account
Hire employees
Pay federal taxes
💵 Free from the IRS website
6. 📋 Check Local Business License Requirements
New Hampshire does not require a statewide business license, but:
Certain cities or towns may require local business registration
Some industries (like food service or childcare) may require additional licensing
🔍 Check with your local city/town clerk or use the NH.gov Business Info page.
7. 💼 Open a Business Bank Account
Keep personal and business finances separate. You’ll need:
EIN
Certificate of Formation
Operating Agreement
8. 📆 File Annual Reports
Every LLC must file an annual report
Fee: $100
Due: By April 1st each year
File Online: New Hampshire Annual Reports Online
🔍 People Also Ask
How much does it cost to start an LLC in New Hampshire?
$100 filing fee for the Certificate of Formation.
How long does it take to form an LLC in New Hampshire?
Online filings are processed in 3-5 business days.
💰 New Hampshire LLC Cost (2025 Breakdown)
| Document/Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $100 |
| Registered Agent (annual) | $50–$150 |
| EIN | Free |
| Operating Agreement | Free (DIY) |
| Annual Report | $100 |
🏛️ New Hampshire Secretary of State Contact Info
Agency: New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporation Division
Phone: (603) 271-3246
Email: corporate@sos.nh.gov
Address: State House, Room 204, 107 North Main Street, Concord, NH 03301
Website: https://sos.nh.gov
❓FAQs - New Hampshire LLC
1. Do I need a registered agent for my New Hampshire LLC?
Yes. A registered agent is legally required and must have a physical address in NH.
2. Is an operating agreement required in NH?
Not required by law, but highly recommended to structure your LLC properly.
3. Do I need an EIN for a New Hampshire LLC?
Yes, especially if you have employees or more than one member.
4. Does New Hampshire require a state business license?
No, but local cities or industries might require specific licenses.
5. What taxes does a New Hampshire LLC pay?
New Hampshire does not tax earned income but does tax interest/dividends and may require Business Enterprise Tax (BET) or Business Profits Tax (BPT) depending on income.
6. When is the New Hampshire LLC annual report due?
Annually by April 1. The filing fee is $100.
7. Can I reserve a business name in NH?
Yes. Name reservations cost $15 and last for 120 days.
8. Can a non-resident form an LLC in NH?
Yes. There are no residency restrictions to form a New Hampshire LLC.
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.
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contact details
- support@tostartanllc.com
- +1 (646) 347-3833
- 1494 State St, Schenectady, NY 12304,
