Starting an LLC is a popular choice for new business owners who want liability protection without a complicated setup. Indiana makes the process especially approachable with a low filing fee, an easy online system, and fewer ongoing requirements than many other states. Let’s go over all the requirements for starting an Indiana LLC so you can turn your business dream into a profitable venture.
Related: Sole proprietorship vs. LLC
How to start an LLC in Indiana in 5 steps
To open an LLC in Indiana, you need to choose a name, appoint a registered agent, file Articles of Organization, create an operating agreement, and obtain an EIN. Most filings can be completed online, and many LLCs are approved within a few business days.
If you’re still in the planning stage, learn more about starting a business before reading on. When you’re ready to launch, we offer free LLC setup with Airo®.
Choose a name for your LLC
The first step to forming a business in the Hoosier state is to choose a name for your LLC. Your business name shapes how customers recognize your brand, so it should be memorable while meeting state requirements. The Indiana Secretary of State requires that your LLC name:
- Includes “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
- Is distinguishable from all other businesses registered in Indiana
- Avoids words that imply the business is a government agency
- Avoids restricted terms like “bank,” “insurance,” or “trust” unless you have proper authorization
Once you’ve chosen a name, search the Indiana Secretary of State’s business database through INBiz to confirm availability. You can reserve a business name for 120 days for a $20 fee if you want to secure it before filing.
Get your business domain name
Once you’ve found the perfect name, it’s a good idea to buy a domain name that matches it to establish your online presence and keep branding consistent. Even if you don’t plan to launch a website right away, registering your domain early makes it easier for customers to find you later.
Get a DBA
A DBA, or “Doing Business As,” allows your Indiana LLC to operate under a different name than its legal name. In Indiana, this is referred to as an assumed business name. For example, “Hoosier Home Services LLC” could file an assumed business name to operate as “HHS Repair.”
You can file an assumed name through your INBiz portal for $30. If you’re not sure whether an assumed name is right for your LLC, learn what is a DBA here.
Appoint a registered agent
Every LLC in Indiana must have a registered agent to receive legal notices and official correspondence. Your registered agent helps keep your Indiana LLC in good standing by ensuring important documents are handled properly. They must:
- Have a physical street address in Indiana
- Be available during regular business hours
- Be authorized to accept service of process
You can act as your own registered agent, appoint another individual, or hire a professional service. Many business owners choose a professional registered agent service for added privacy and reliability. Learn more about what is a registered agent in this article.
File Articles of Organization
To officially form your LLC, file Articles of Organization with the Indiana Secretary of State. You can submit your filing online through the Secretary of State website or by mail. You’ll need to provide:
- Your LLC’s name and principal office address
- Your registered agent’s name and address
- Information about the organizer
- Your LLC’s management structure
The filing fee is $95 for online submissions and $100 for mail filings. Online filings are typically processed within a few business days, and mail filings may take a few weeks.
Create an operating agreement
Indiana does not require LLCs to have an operating agreement, but having one is strongly recommended. This document outlines how your LLC operates, helps protect your limited liability status, and reduces the risk of disputes. Even single-member LLCs benefit from an operating agreement, as it reinforces the separation between personal and business assets.
Your operating agreement should outline:
- Roles and responsibilities of members and managers
- Ownership percentages
- Rules for distributing profits and losses
- Voting rights and decision-making authority
- Procedures for adding or removing members
- Recordkeeping requirements
- Steps for dissolving the LLC
Find more details on operating agreements in this guide.
Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS. Your Indiana LLC will need an EIN to:
- File federal taxes
- Hire employees
- Open a business bank account
- Apply for business licenses or permits
You can apply for an EIN directly through the IRS website. If you’re unsure which tax ID applies to your business, take some time to review the difference between TIN and EIN.
How long does it take to get an EIN?
Online EIN applications are processed immediately. Applications submitted by fax or mail can take several weeks.
How much does an EIN cost?
Applying for an EIN is completely free. There are no filing, processing, or renewal fees.
Types of LLCs available in Indiana
Indiana offers several types of LLCs to fit different business structures and ownership needs. Choosing the right type depends on how many owners you have and how you want the business to be managed.
- Single-member LLC: Owned by one person and commonly used by solo entrepreneurs who want liability protection.
- Multi-member LLC: Owned by two or more members and suitable for partnerships or jointly owned businesses.
- Member-managed LLC: All members participate in daily operations and decision-making.
- Manager-managed LLC: Members appoint one or more managers to handle day-to-day operations.
- Professional LLC (PLLC): Designed for licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, or accountants, subject to state licensing rules.
Check out this article on different types of LLCs for more information.
How much does it cost to start and run an LLC in Indiana
Indiana is considered a low-cost state for forming and maintaining an LLC. In most cases, you can expect to pay:
- Articles of Organization filing fee: $95 online or $100 by mail
- Business name reservation (optional): $20 for 120 days
- Assumed business name (optional): $30
- Registered agent service (optional): $100-$300
- Biennial business entity report: $32 online or $50 by mail, due every two years
- State taxes: Indiana LLCs are subject to applicable state and federal taxes, depending on income and business activity
- Business licenses and permits (if applicable): Varies by location and requirements
Overall, most new LLC owners in Indiana will spend between $95 and $445 to form and maintain their business in the first year.
What happens after your LLC is up and running
Officially forming your Indiana LLC is worth celebrating, but there are still a few more steps you need to take.
Open a business bank account
Opening a separate bank account for your LLC helps keep your personal and business finances distinct. This separation supports your limited liability protection and makes accounting easier.
Most banks will require:
- Your EIN
- Approved Articles of Organization
- Your operating agreement
- A valid photo ID
Having a dedicated business account also helps when tracking expenses, managing cash flow, and preparing for tax season.
File for permits and required business licenses
Indiana does not issue a general statewide business license, but some businesses need permits or licenses depending on their industry and location. Requirements may come from the state, county, or city level.
You can check which licenses or permits apply to your business through the Business Owner’s Guide on Indiana’s state website, or by calling the State Information Center.
File biannual reports
Indiana requires LLCs to file a business entity report every two years. This report is due during the anniversary month of your LLC’s formation and is submitted through the INBiz portal.
The filing fee is $32 online or $50 by mail. Failing to file on time can result in late fees and may lead to the administrative dissolution of your LLC.
Other things to consider for your Indiana LLC
Indiana business owners need to understand the state’s tax structure, compliance tools, and ongoing requirements that can affect day-to-day operations.
Indiana LLC tax requirements
Indiana LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities by default, meaning profits and losses are reported on the owners’ personal tax returns. Indiana does not charge a franchise tax, which helps reduce ongoing costs.
Depending on your situation, you may need to account for:
- Indiana individual income tax, which applies at a flat state rate
- Self-employment taxes for LLC members
- Withholding tax if you hire employees
- Sales tax if you sell taxable goods or services
Some LLCs choose to elect S corporation or C corporation tax status for additional flexibility.
Get a Certificate of Existence (good standing)
A Certificate of Existence, sometimes called a Certificate of Good Standing, confirms that your Indiana LLC is properly registered and compliant. You may need this document when opening certain bank accounts, applying for business loans, registering as a foreign LLC in another state, or bidding on contracts. Certificates of Existence can be requested online through the Indiana Secretary of State using INBiz.
Use INBiz as a resource
INBiz is Indiana’s official online business portal and serves as a one-stop shop for LLC management. It is free to use and available at any time. Through INBiz, you can:
- Search and reserve business names
- File Articles of Organization
- Submit biennial reports
- Update registered agent information
- Order Certificates of Existence
- Search existing Indiana businesses
When it's a good idea to start an LLC in Indiana
Forming an LLC in Indiana makes sense in many business situations, especially when liability protection and flexibility are priorities. An LLC may be a good fit if you want to protect personal assets, plan to work with business partners, or expect the business to carry financial or legal risk.
LLCs are commonly used by service providers, ecommerce businesses, real estate investors, contractors, and professional practices that want a balance between simplicity and credibility.
Start your Indiana LLC today
Forming an LLC in Indiana is a straightforward process, but managing paperwork, deadlines, and compliance can still feel overwhelming, especially for first-time business owners. Getting it right from the start helps protect your business and set a strong foundation for growth.
If you want to simplify the process, GoDaddy Airo can help. With free LLC setup, Airo guides you through forming your Indiana LLC, files the required paperwork, and helps you move forward with clarity. That way, you can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time building your business.
FAQ
How long does it take for an LLC to be approved in Indiana?
Online filings are typically processed within a few business days. Mail filings may take a few weeks, depending on processing volume.
Do I need a biennial report for an LLC in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana requires LLCs to file a business entity report every two years during the anniversary month of formation.
What do I need to open an LLC in Indiana?
To open an LLC in Indiana, you need an available business name, a registered agent with an Indiana address, filed Articles of Organization, and an EIN from the IRS.
