Thinking of launching your own business? Forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) is one of the smartest and most flexible ways to get started. But a question many first-time entrepreneurs ask is:
“How long does it take to create an LLC?”
The short answer is: It typically takes 1 to 10 business days — but the actual timeline depends on your state, filing method, and whether you choose to file yourself or use a professional LLC formation service like FormLLC.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down every step, state-by-state processing times, and expert tips to get your LLC formed as fast as possible.
Quick Answer: LLC Formation Timeframes
| Filing Method | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Online Filing | 1–5 business days |
| Mail Filing | 5–15+ business days |
| Expedited Filing (Extra Fee) | Same-day or 24 hours |
| Using LLC Formation Services | Fastest + Error-Free |
What Steps Are Involved in Creating an LLC?
Here’s what you’ll need to complete to legally form your LLC:
1. Choose a Business Name
Each state requires that your LLC name be unique and meet specific naming rules. Many states offer a free online business name search tool to help you check availability.
Time required: Instant (if name is available)
2. File Articles of Organization
This is the official document that legally creates your LLC. You file it with your state’s Secretary of State office.
Time required: Varies by state and filing method (online is fastest)
3. Appoint a Registered Agent
All LLCs must designate a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation. You can be your own agent or use a service provider.
Time required: Instant (if already selected)
4. State Reviews & Approves the Filing
Once submitted, your documents are reviewed and processed by the state. When approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Formation or LLC approval letter.
Time required: 1–10 business days (online) or 1–3 weeks (mail)
5. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
You need an EIN to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. You can get it for free from the IRS.
Time required: Instant (online) or 1–2 weeks (by mail)
6. Create an Operating Agreement
Though not always legally required, an Operating Agreement outlines your LLC’s structure and roles — especially if there are multiple members.
Time required: 1 day
7. Obtain Necessary Business Licenses
Depending on your industry and location, you may need local permits or business licenses.
Time required: Varies by city and industry
8. Open a Business Bank Account
Opening a separate account helps you manage business finances and maintain liability protection.
Time required: 1–3 business days
State-by-State Average LLC Processing Times (Online Filing)
Want to know how long it takes to form an LLC in your state? Here’s a quick list of common states and their average processing times for online filings:
| State | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Delaware | 1–2 business days |
| Florida | 1–5 business days |
| Texas | 5–7 business days |
| California | 5–10 business days |
| New York | 3–7 business days |
| Georgia | 5–7 business days |
| Wyoming | 1–2 business days |
| Arizona | 1–3 business days |
| Illinois | 5–10 business days |
| Nevada | 2–4 business days |
Note: These are estimates for standard online filing. Most states offer expedited options for an additional fee.
Can You Speed Up LLC Formation?
Yes, you absolutely can!
Here are a few ways to speed up your LLC registration:
Use Expedited Filing (Available in Most States)
- Texas: 2-day expedited service for $25 extra
- California: 24-hour or same-day options
- New York: 2-hour, same-day, or 24-hour options
Work With a Professional Formation Service
Using an expert service like FormLLC ensures:
- Your documents are filed correctly and quickly
- You avoid costly errors or delays
- You can choose express or same-day packages
Post-LLC Steps (That May Add Time)
Forming your LLC is just the first step. Here are other essential tasks that follow:
| Task | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Apply for EIN | Instant (online) |
| Draft Operating Agreement | 1 day |
| Get Business Licenses | Varies (local/city-based) |
| Open Business Bank Account | 1–3 business days |
With everything done right, you can be fully operational in 3–10 business days.
Summary: How Long Does It Really Take to Form an LLC?
| LLC Formation Task | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Business Name Availability Check | Instant |
| Filing Articles (Online) | 1–10 business days |
| EIN Application (IRS) | Same day (online) |
| Operating Agreement | 1 day |
| Licenses & Permits | Depends on city/state |
| Business Bank Account | 1–3 business days |
Total Time: As little as 3 to 10 business days
Want to Form Your LLC the Fast and Easy Way?
Skip the paperwork and let the experts at FormLLC do it for you.
Why Choose FormLLC?
- Fast & accurate LLC filing in all 50 states
- EIN registration (included)
- 1st-year free registered agent
- BOI (Beneficial Ownership Information) report assistance
- Custom client dashboard & compliance tracking
Email: contact@formllc.us
Website: www.formllc.us
WhatsApp: +91 6202619173
Let us handle the legal stuff — you focus on growing your business.
Delaware and Wyoming are among the fastest, with 1–2 day processing times for online filings.
Yes, if your state offers expedited or same-day filing and you pay the additional fee.
It doesn’t change the state’s processing time, but it helps avoid delays due to errors or missed mail.
You can submit documents online anytime, but states process them during business hours (weekdays only).
You’ll need to choose another unique name that complies with your state’s naming guidelines.
Yes, non-residents can form an LLC in most U.S. states, including Delaware, Wyoming, and New Mexico.
It varies by state — ranging from $40 (Kentucky) to $500 (Massachusetts). Using a service like FormLLC adds convenience and compliance support.
Final Thoughts
Forming an LLC is one of the most important steps in launching your business. While timelines vary, you can be up and running in just a few days — especially with online filing and expert assistance.
Don’t waste time with paperwork, rejections, or state delays.
Let FormLLC help you create your LLC — fast, simple, and 100% online.
