How Long Does It Take to Register an LLC in the USA?

The honest answer is "a few days to a few weeks", and most of that time is not in your hands. The state decides how fast it reviews a filing, the IRS decides how fast it issues a tax number, and the bank decides how fast it opens an account. This guide breaks the wait into those three parts, so you know what to expect when you register an LLC in the USA online.

The timeline in one list

1. Preparing the filing: a day, if you have your name, state and details ready.
2. State processing: from the same day to several weeks, depending on the state and whether you pay for faster handling.
3. EIN: a few business days to a few weeks, depending on how you apply.
4. Bank account: a few days to a few weeks, depending on the provider and your documents.
5. Payment processor (Stripe, PayPal): from hours to a couple of weeks after review.

So a company that can take payments often needs two to six weeks from start to finish, with the state step and the bank step the most variable.

Step 1: state processing

Online filing is quick in some states and slow in others. Many states offer expedited handling for an extra fee, from a day or two to the same day. Check the state's own website for its current times, because they change with workload. Our LLC filing fees by state table helps you compare costs, and the state's agency sets the speed.

Step 2: the EIN

An EIN is the company's US tax number. The IRS issues it quickly to applicants who can use its online form. A non-resident without a Social Security Number normally applies by fax or mail, which takes longer: a few business days by fax and several weeks by mail, according to the IRS. Check irs.gov for the current times. If you want it handled for you, see our EIN service.

Step 3: the bank account

Banks ask for your passport, the formation documents and the EIN letter. A remote account can open in days with some providers and take longer with others, and approval is always the bank's decision. Read our page on US business bank accounts for what they look at.

What slows things down

• A name that is already taken, or too close to one that is.
• A mismatch between the legal name on the state record and on the EIN application.
• Missing or unclear passport scans.
• No registered agent in place when you file. See registered agent for a US LLC.

How to move faster

1. Choose two or three name options before you start.
2. Decide the state on yearly cost, then check its processing time.
3. Have your passport, address proof and email ready.
4. Use the exact legal name everywhere.

From India?

The timeline is the same, and the extra steps are on the Indian side. Read our guide to LLC registration in the USA from India. If you live in another country, see open a US LLC from any country.

After the LLC exists

Put the annual report date in a calendar. If you are the only owner and live outside the US, the LLC also files Form 5472 with a pro forma Form 1120 every year; see our Form 5472 guide and US LLC tax filing.

Want it handled for you? See LLC formation or talk to us. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.