How to Start an LLC in New Jersey
To start an LLC in New Jersey, file Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. This costs $125 and takes 3–5 business days for online approval.
New Jersey requires all businesses to obtain a Business Registration Certificate from the Division of Revenue. This is separate from the LLC formation filing.
There are 6 steps to start an LLC in New Jersey:
- 1Choose an LLC Name
- 2Select a Registered Agent
- 3File Certificate of Formation
- 4Create an Operating Agreement
- 5Get an EIN from the IRS
- 6File Your Annual Report
How much does it cost to start an LLC in New Jersey?
It costs $125 to start an LLC in New Jersey. After formation, you will also owe $75/year for the File Your Annual Report.
What are these fees for?
- The $125 is to file the Certificate of Formation — the document that officially creates your LLC.
- The $75/year is for the File Your Annual Report — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
How long does it take to get an LLC in New Jersey?
- Online filing: 3–5 business days
- Mail filing: 1–2 weeks
You can file online or by mail with the New Jersey Division of Revenue.
Steps to Form an LLC in New Jersey
Step 1: Search Your LLC Name
Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in New Jersey. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.
New Jersey business name search →
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
A Registered Agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices on behalf of your LLC. New Jersey requires your Registered Agent to have a physical street address in the state — PO Boxes are not allowed. Your options:
- Yourself (if you have a physical address in New Jersey)
- A friend or family member who lives in New Jersey
- A professional Registered Agent service
Step 3: File Certificate of Formation with Division of Revenue
To officially create your LLC, file the Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. The filing fee is $125.
You can file online or by mail with the New Jersey Division of Revenue.
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement is an internal document that shows who owns the LLC and how it will be run. You do not need to file it with the state or the IRS — just keep it with your business records. All LLCs should have one, even single-member LLCs.
Step 5: Get an EIN from the IRS
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your LLC's federal tax ID. It is free from the IRS and is needed to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.
- US residents with an SSN: Apply online at IRS.gov (takes ~15 minutes, free)
- Non-US residents without an SSN: Apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4 (takes 1–3 months)
Step 6: File Your Annual Report
First due: By the anniversary date of the year after formation
After Your LLC Is Approved
Open a business bank account
Keep business and personal finances separate to maintain liability protection. You will need your EIN and your stamped/approved Certificate of Formation to open an account.
Get business licenses and permits
New Jersey requires all businesses to obtain a Business Registration Certificate from the Division of Revenue. Additional licenses may be required depending on your business type.
Understand your tax obligations
LLCs don't pay federal income tax directly. Profits and losses pass through to the members, who report them on their personal federal tax returns.
New Jersey has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their New Jersey state tax return.
Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.