How to Start an LLC in Virginia
To start an LLC in Virginia, file Articles of Organization with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). This costs $100 and takes 3–5 business days (standard); same-day/next-day expedited available for online approval.
There are 6 steps to start an LLC in Virginia:
- 1Choose an LLC Name
- 2Select a Registered Agent
- 3File Articles of Organization
- 4Create an Operating Agreement
- 5Get an EIN from the IRS
- 6Pay Your Annual Registration Fee
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Virginia?
It costs $100 to start an LLC in Virginia. After formation, you will also owe $50/year for the Pay Your Annual Registration Fee.
What are these fees for?
- The $100 is to file the Articles of Organization — the document that officially creates your LLC.
- The $50/year is for the Pay Your Annual Registration Fee — a mandatory filing that keeps your LLC in good standing.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Virginia?
- Online filing: 3–5 business days (standard); same-day/next-day expedited available
- Mail filing: 1–2 weeks
You can file online or by mail with the Virginia SCC. Expedited processing is available.
Steps to Form an LLC in Virginia
Step 1: Search Your LLC Name
Search your LLC name to make sure it's available in Virginia. Two businesses in the state cannot share the same name.
Virginia 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. Virginia 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 Virginia)
- A friend or family member who lives in Virginia
- A professional Registered Agent service
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with State Corporation Commission
To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). The filing fee is $100.
You can file online or by mail with the Virginia SCC. Expedited processing is available.
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: Pay Your Annual Registration Fee
First due: By the last day of the anniversary month 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 Articles of Organization to open an account.
Get business licenses and permits
Virginia does not have a state general business license. However, many cities and counties require a local Business, Professional, and Occupational License (BPOL).
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.
Virginia has a state income tax. LLC members report their share of profits on their Virginia state tax return.
Once your LLC is formed, TheLLCWiki has free tools for IRS name changes, address changes, EIN applications, and tax elections.