Starting a business in Missouri offers the chance to join a community of innovators, dreamers, and doers who call the Show-Me State home. From Kansas City’s famous barbecue scene to the bustling startups in St. Louis and the family-run shops dotting small towns, Missouri has space for every kind of entrepreneur.
Creating a limited liability company (LLC) in Missouri helps protect your personal assets, establish credibility, and lay the groundwork for long-term growth. Let’s break down the process of launching a Missouri LLC so you know exactly what to expect.
How to start an LLC in Missouri in 5 steps
To open an LLC in Missouri, you need to choose a name, appoint a registered agent, file the Articles of Organization, write an operating agreement, and get an EIN. This may sound complicated, but it’s actually quite simple and can be completed in a few business days if you file online.
If you’re a first-time business owner, you may also want to read this guide on how to start a business and explore what an LLC organizer vs. LLC member is. When you’re ready to take the next step, you can create your LLC with GoDaddy in just a few clicks.
1. Choose a name for your LLC
Your business name is one of the first things customers notice, so it needs to follow Missouri’s rules and stand out from the competition. The Missouri Secretary of State requires that every LLC name:
- Includes “Limited Liability Company” or an abbreviation like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
- Does not suggest that your business is a government agency (for example, using words like FBI, Treasury, or State Department).
- It is distinguishable from other names already registered in Missouri.
- Does not use specialized terms like “bank,” “trust,” or “insurance” without approval.
After you choose an LLC name, use the Missouri Secretary of State’s Business Entity Search to confirm its availability. If you’ve chosen a name but aren’t quite ready to lock it in, you can reserve it for up to 60 days for $25.
Get your business domain name
Once you decide on a business name, it is smart to secure the matching domain name before someone else does. Your domain helps customers find you online and keeps your branding consistent. You can buy a domain name through GoDaddy.
Get a DBA
A DBA, or “doing business as” (also called a fictitious name), allows you to operate your LLC under a different trade name than the one you registered with the state. This can be helpful if you want to brand your products or services with a separate identity. You can register your DBA through the Missouri Secretary of State for $7. Learn more about what is a DBA and whether your business needs one.
2. Appoint a registered agent
Every LLC in Missouri must designate a registered agent. This is a person or business that accepts official documents and legal notices on behalf of your LLC. In Missouri, registered agents must:
- Have a physical address in Missouri (P.O. boxes are not accepted).
- Be available during normal business hours.
- Be an individual (such as yourself), another member of the LLC, or a professional registered agent service.
Having a registered agent ensures your LLC never misses important communications from the state or the courts. You can find out more about what is a registered agent and decide if hiring a professional service is right for you.
3. File Articles of Organization
To officially form your LLC, you must file Articles of Organization with the Missouri Secretary of State. This can be completed online through the Secretary of State’s filing portal or by mail. You will need to provide:
- LLC name and address
- Purpose of your LLC
- Name and address of the registered agent
- Events that could cause dissolution
- Management and member names and addresses
The cost is $50 if filed online or $105 if filed by mail. Missouri does not have an official expedited processing option, so be sure to plan and file accordingly.
4. Create an operating agreement
An operating agreement outlines how your LLC will be run. Missouri does not legally require an operating agreement, but it is highly recommended to prevent conflicts and clarify responsibilities. Your operating agreement should include:
- Roles and responsibilities of members and managers
- Type of LLC—explore the different types of LLCs here
- Percentage of ownership for each member
- Rules for profit and loss distribution
- Voting rights and procedures
- Procedures for adding or removing members
- Dissolution terms if the LLC closes
Even if you are the only member, an operating agreement adds legitimacy to your LLC and can help maintain liability protection. Some financial institutions may also require it to open a business bank account or receive funding.
5. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique number assigned to your business by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You will need it to:
- File taxes
- Hire employees
- Open a business bank account
- Apply for certain business licenses and permits
You can apply for an EIN directly through the IRS website.
How long does it take to get an EIN?
When you apply online, your EIN will be issued as soon as your application is processed and approved. This usually only takes a few minutes.
How much does an EIN cost?
It is completely free to apply for and maintain an EIN. There are no processing or renewal fees.
How much does it cost to start and run an LLC in Missouri
The cost of forming and operating an LLC in Missouri is relatively affordable compared to many other states. The main expenses you should plan for are:
- Articles of Organization filing fee: $50 if filed online or $105 if filed by mail, paid to the Missouri Secretary of State.
- Name reservation (optional): $25 if you want to hold your business name before filing.
- Fictitious name registration: $7 paid to the Missouri Secretary of State
- Registered agent service (optional): $100–$300 per year if you use a professional service instead of serving as your own agent.
- State income tax: 4.95% flat rate on profits that pass through to members.
- Sales tax: 4.225% state rate, plus applicable local sales taxes if your LLC sells goods or taxable services.
- Employment taxes: Costs vary depending on the number of employees, but you will need to pay state unemployment insurance tax and withhold payroll taxes.
- Business licenses or permits: Fees depend on your city, county, and industry requirements.
What happens after your LLC is up and running
Forming your Missouri LLC is a big accomplishment, but there are still a few important tasks to complete before you open your doors.
Open a Business Bank Account
One of the first things you should do after forming your Missouri LLC is open a dedicated business bank account. Keeping your business and personal finances separate is key to protecting your liability status and building credibility. It also makes it easier to track income and expenses, file taxes, and build business credit. When setting up an account, most banks will ask for:
- Your LLC’s Articles of Organization
- Your LLC operating agreement (if you have one)
- Your EIN from the IRS
- A valid government-issued photo ID
File for permits and required business licenses
Not every Missouri LLC will need additional permits or licenses, but many industries do. Requirements depend on the type of business you operate and the city or county where you are located, so take the time to do a little research before beginning operations.
You can see what licenses and permits your LLC needs by visiting the Missouri Division of Professional Registration website or contacting your city or county clerk’s office. Note that if you sell taxable goods or services, you must register with the Missouri Department of Revenue for a sales tax license.
Things to know about Missouri LLCs
Once your business is up and running, you’ll need to file taxes and get a certificate of good standing to stay compliant.
Filing taxes for a Missouri LLC
LLCs in Missouri are considered pass-through entities, which means profits and losses pass through to the members’ personal tax returns. The taxes that may apply to your LLC include:
- State income tax: Members pay Missouri’s 4.95% flat rate on profits that pass through from the LLC.
- Sales tax: If your LLC sells goods or taxable services, you must collect Missouri’s 4.225% state sales tax, along with any additional local taxes.
- Employer taxes: If you have employees, you must register with the Missouri Department of Revenue to withhold state income taxes from wages, and with the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations for unemployment insurance tax.
Obtain a certificate of good standing
A certificate of good standing is an official document from the Missouri Secretary of State that verifies your LLC is legally registered and compliant with state requirements. While it is not something you need every day, banks, investors, or other states may request it when you:
- Apply for financing or open a new business bank account.
- Register your LLC to do business in another state.
- Enter into contracts with partners or government agencies.
You can request a certificate of good standing directly from the Missouri Secretary of State’s office.
Launch your Missouri LLC today
Forming an LLC in Missouri is only the beginning of your business journey. The real momentum comes after your paperwork is approved and you start building the systems, habits, and branding that keep your business running smoothly.
When you’re ready to take your business online, GoDaddy Airo can help you design a professional website, set up a branded email, create logos, and launch marketing campaigns—all from a single platform.
FAQ
How long does it take to create an LLC in Missouri?
Creating an LLC in Missouri usually takes a few business days when you file online with the Missouri Secretary of State. Filing by mail can take multiple weeks.
Does Missouri allow single-member LLC?
Yes, Missouri allows single-member LLCs in addition to multi-member LLCs. A single-member LLC provides the same liability protection as a multi-member LLC, making it a great option for solo entrepreneurs.
Do I have to file an annual report in Missouri?
No, you do not have to file an annual report in Missouri. This helps keep ongoing costs lower for business owners.
How long does it take for the state of Missouri to approve an LLC?
How long it takes for the state of Missouri to approve an LLC depends on your filing method. Online filings are generally approved within a few business days. Mail filings can take several weeks.
