An LLC (limited liability company) is the most common way to set up a small business. These are the steps, in order. The official place to file is the Tennessee Secretary of State.
- Pick your business nameSearch the state's business records on the Secretary of State site to make sure no one else has it. Your name has to include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company".
- Choose a registered agentA person or company with a Tennessee address who accepts legal mail for your business. You can be your own.
- File your Articles of OrganizationFile online with the Tennessee Secretary of State. The state charges a filing fee based on how many members your LLC has; check today's fee on the state site before you file.
- Write an operating agreementWho owns what, who decides what, and what happens if someone leaves. Tennessee doesn't make you file it, but your bank will likely ask for it.
- Get your EINYour business's tax number, free from the IRS. That's the next guide.
- Mark your annual reportTennessee LLCs file an annual report with the state every year. The state site lists your deadline and fee.
Not legal or tax advice. MyRevival shares general information for education. It is not medical, legal or tax advice. Talk to your doctor before changing your diet, exercise or supplements, and to a CPA or attorney about your business. Rules and fees change, so check the official site before you file.