Launching a business in Georgia comes with big advantages. The state is known for its pro-business climate, which includes perks like low operating costs, access to growing markets, and plenty of resources to support new ventures.
One of the first steps many entrepreneurs take is forming a limited liability company (LLC). It’s a flexible business structure that helps protect your personal assets, offers tax advantages, and gives your company more credibility. Don’t let the terminology scare you; starting an LLC in Georgia is a simple, straightforward process.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about how to start an LLC in Georgia, from choosing a business name to filing the right paperwork.
When you’re ready to take the next step, GoDaddy Airo helps you set up your LLC so you can open your doors quickly.
Related: Sole proprietorship vs. LLC
How to start an LLC in Georgia in 5 steps
To start an LLC in Georgia, you’ll need to choose a business name, secure your domain and optional DBA, appoint a registered agent, file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State, create an operating agreement, and apply for an EIN. Everything can be done online or by mail. If you’re starting an LLC quickly, completing the steps below online is the best option.
Need more information on starting a business or how to choose an LLC type? Read these guides!
1. Choose a name for your LLC
The first step to forming your LLC is choosing a unique and available name. Georgia requires every business to have a name that clearly distinguishes it from other entities registered with the Secretary of State. Your business’s name must also include LLC or Limited Liability Company. Before committing, you’ll want to run a quick search on the Georgia Corporations Division website to confirm the name isn’t already in use. You should also:
- Avoid words restricted to certain industries, like “bank” or “insurance”
- Perform a trademark search through the Georgia Corporations Division website to ensure there are no conflicts
GoDaddy has resources to help you choose a name for your LLC and even check if the business name is taken, so you don’t run into surprises or legal issues later.
Get your business domain name
Once you’ve confirmed your LLC name is available, secure the matching domain name for your website. This helps customers find you online and protects your brand. With GoDaddy, you can buy your domain name in minutes and even explore variations if the exact one you want isn’t available.
Get a DBA
Some LLCs in Georgia choose to operate under a DBA (Doing Business As), also called a trade name. This allows your LLC to conduct business under a name different from the one you registered as the legal entity. For example, “Peach State Consulting LLC” might use “PSC Advisors” as its DBA for marketing purposes. You can find out more about what is a DBA here and whether it makes sense for your Georgia LLC.
2. Appoint a registered agent
Every LLC in Georgia must appoint a registered agent. A registered agent is responsible for receiving important legal and tax documents on behalf of your business. You can act as your own registered agent, or hire a professional service to help prevent you from overlooking critical paperwork, such as lawsuits or compliance notices. Georgia requires all registered agents to:
- Have a physical street address in Georgia (P.O. boxes aren’t accepted)
- Be available during normal business hours
Learn more about what is a registered agent and decide whether hiring one or acting as your own makes the most sense for your business. While serving as your own agent can save money, many entrepreneurs prefer professional services for privacy and reliability. Costs vary, but they can usually be hired for a few hundred dollars each year.
3. File Articles of Organization
For your LLC to be recognized by the state, you’ll need to file Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State. This document is a formal record of your business that legally brings your LLC into existence. Until this step is completed, your company isn’t recognized as an LLC.
Georgia allows you to file your Articles of Organization online, by mail, or in person. Filing online costs $100 and takes seven business days to process. It can be processed in two business days for an additional $100, or on the same business day (if submitted before noon) for $250.
Filing by mail takes 15 business days to process, but you can expedite it for the same fees listed above.
When filing, you’ll need to provide:
- The legal name of your LLC
- The street address of the business
- The name and address of your registered agent
- The name and signature of the LLC organizer (the person submitting the paperwork)
4. Create an operating agreement
Although not legally required in Georgia, an operating agreement is a crucial internal document for your LLC. It outlines how your company will be run, how decisions are made, and how profits are shared. Having one in place helps prevent disputes among members and demonstrates to banks and partners that your business is legitimate.
Your operating agreement should include:
- Ownership structure (who owns what percentage)
- Roles and responsibilities of members and managers
- Procedures for voting and decision-making
- Profit and loss distribution
- Steps for adding or removing members
- Dissolution process if the LLC closes
Even if you’re a single-member LLC, creating an agreement gives your business added structure and legal credibility.
5. Get an EIN
The final step in starting an LLC in Georgia is obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is a unique nine-digit identifier the federal government uses to track your company’s tax responsibilities. You’ll need an EIN to:
- File federal taxes for your LLC
- Open a business bank account
- Apply for business credit
- Hire employees and run payroll
- Obtain certain business licenses or permits
You can apply for an EIN through the IRS website or by mail. Be prepared to provide your LLC’s legal name and physical address, the name and social security number of the responsible party (usually the owner), and details about your LLC’s structure and purpose.
How long does it take to get an EIN?
If you apply online, you’ll get your EIN as soon as your application is approved. This usually only takes a few minutes. It can take four to six weeks to get an EIN if you apply by mail, so choose the method that works best for your timeline.
How much does an EIN cost?
Getting an EIN from the IRS is completely free. There are no application, renewal, or processing fees. Be cautious of third-party services that charge unnecessary fees for something you can do yourself at no cost.
How much does it cost to start and run an LLC in Georgia
Because Georgia is a pro-business state, starting an LLC is relatively affordable compared to many other states. At a minimum, you’ll need to budget around $100–$110 upfront to file your Articles of Organization. You’ll likely also be required to obtain various business licenses and permits, depending on your industry.
The cost of starting an LLC in Georgia varies by location and business type, but you can generally expect:
- Articles of Organization filing fee: $100 online or $110 by mail
- Business domain name: Prices vary; explore the typical domain name cost here
- DBA (if you choose to register one): Around $150, depending on the county
- Registered agent service (optional): $50–$300 per year if you hire a professional service instead of serving as your own agent
- Local business license: Most Georgia cities and counties require a business license, often called an “occupational tax certificate.” Fees vary by location and business type, but generally range from $50 to $400 annually
- Industry permits (if applicable): Costs vary depending on your business activity (e.g., food service, construction, childcare)
- Annual registration fee: $60, due each year by April 1
- State income tax: Georgia’s corporate income tax rate is 5.75%, though most LLCs are pass-through entities with owners paying tax on personal returns
- Sales tax: 4% state sales tax, plus local county or city rates
- Employer taxes: If you hire employees, you’ll also need to cover state payroll taxes and federal employment taxes
What happens after your LLC is up and running
Once your Georgia LLC paperwork is approved, there are a few more tasks you need to complete before you start serving customers. These steps help protect your personal assets, keep your LLC in good standing with the state, and set your business up to thrive.
Open a business bank account
One of the first things you should do after forming your LLC is open a dedicated business bank account. Keeping your personal and business finances separate is critical for protecting your liability status and making bookkeeping easier. It also makes it easier to apply for business credit, track expenses, and prepare for tax season. To open a business account in Georgia, you’ll typically need:
- A copy of your approved Articles of Organization
- Your LLC’s EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- A copy of your operating agreement (some banks require this)
- A valid ID for the LLC’s owners or managers
File for permits and required business licenses
Depending on your industry and municipality, you may need to apply for specific business licenses and permits before opening your doors. These may include:
- Local licenses: Most Georgia counties and cities require a business license (often called an occupational tax certificate). Check with your city or county clerk’s office to confirm the requirements. You can also run a search using the Georgia Chamber of Commerce directory.
- State permits: Businesses in regulated industries (such as food service, construction, childcare, or professional services) may need additional permits issued by Georgia state agencies.
- Federal permits: If your LLC operates in areas like alcohol, firearms, or transportation, you may need federal-level licenses.
To apply for business licenses, visit the Professional Licensing Portal on the Georgia Secretary of State website.
File annual registration
Every LLC in Georgia must file an annual registration with the Secretary of State to remain active and compliant. This filing keeps your company’s contact information and registered agent details up to date in state records. Your annual registration is due on April 1st each year, and costs $60. It can be filed online through the Georgia Corporations Division.
When you submit your annual registration, make sure all the information about your LLC is accurate and current. Missing the deadline can result in late fees or administrative dissolution, so it’s important to set a reminder each year.
Things to know about Georgia LLCs
Forming your LLC is a big step, but understanding how to manage it day-to-day is just as important. Georgia has specific requirements for taxes and insurance that you’ll need to follow to stay compliant.
Georgia LLC tax requirements
Like most states, Georgia treats LLCs as pass-through entities for tax purposes. This means that the LLC itself doesn’t pay income tax at the federal level; profits and losses “pass through” to the owners, who report them on their personal tax returns. Here’s how taxes typically work for Georgia LLCs:
- State income tax: Owners pay Georgia’s state income tax (currently 5.75%) on their share of LLC income.
- Sales tax: If your LLC sells taxable goods or services, you must collect and remit the 4% state sales tax, plus any local taxes.
- Employment taxes: If you hire employees, you’ll need to handle state payroll taxes in addition to federal withholdings.
- Corporate tax option: LLCs can choose to be taxed as a corporation, which may be beneficial for certain businesses.
If you need more guidance, read this article on filing business taxes for your LLC.
Workers’ compensation insurance
Georgia law requires businesses with three or more employees (including full-time, part-time, and seasonal workers) to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage protects both your employees and your business by paying for medical care and wage replacement if someone is injured on the job. You can purchase workers’ compensation insurance through private carriers authorized in Georgia, or through self-insurance programs if your business qualifies.
Even if your LLC has fewer than three employees, you may still want to consider this coverage. It can help reduce your financial risk and show your team that you’re committed to their well-being.
Start an LLC in Georgia today
Once your Georgia business is official, focus on building a brand that customers will recognize and trust. You can bring your vision to life with tools built for entrepreneurs from GoDaddy. GoDaddy has everything you need to get your LLC up and running, from a free business name generator to a logo maker.
FAQs
What are the requirements for an LLC in Georgia?
The requirements for starting an LLC in Georgia include:
- Choosing a unique business name that follows state naming rules.
- Appointing a registered agent with a physical address in Georgia.
- Filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State and paying the filing fee.
- Creating an operating agreement (recommended, though not legally required).
- Obtaining an EIN from the IRS for tax and banking purposes.
- Filing an annual registration ($50) by April 1 to keep your LLC in good standing.
Depending on your business type and location, you may also need local business licenses or permits before you can officially operate.
Do you have to pay taxes on LLC in Georgia?
Yes, LLCs have to pay taxes in Georgia. Georgia LLCs are generally treated as pass-through entities, which means the business itself doesn’t pay federal income taxes. Instead, owners report profits and losses on their personal tax returns. LLCs are typically responsible for the following taxes:
- State income tax: 5.75% on your share of LLC income.
- Sales tax: 4% state rate, plus any local county or city rates if you sell taxable goods or services.
- Employment taxes: Required if you hire employees.
- Corporate option: You can elect to be taxed as a corporation if it benefits your business.
How long does it take to set up an LLC in Georgia?
If you file your Articles of Organization online, your LLC is usually approved in 7 business days or less. Filing by mail can take a few weeks. Once your LLC is approved, you’ll receive a certificate from the Secretary of State confirming that your company is officially recognized.
