Can I Form an LLC Online in North Carolina?
Yes. North Carolina allows you to form an LLC entirely online through the Secretary of State's Business Registration Division. File your Articles of Organization at https://www.sosnc.gov/online_filing/filing/creation, pay the $125 filing fee, and your LLC will be processed in approximately 10 to 15 business days. Online filing is faster than paper submission.
What You'll Need
File Articles of Organization under N.C.G.S. § 57D-2-20 with the following required information:
- LLC name with a required designator (LLC, L.L.C., or Limited Liability Company)
- Name, address, and role of each organizer (member, organizer, or both)
- Registered office street address in North Carolina
- Registered agent name and address
- Principal office address, if applicable
- Any optional provisions you wish to include
You need at least one organizer. Foreign owners are permitted.
Name Requirements
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from all other names on file with the Secretary of State. Search existing business names at https://www.sosnc.gov/online_services/search/by_title/search_Business_Registration before filing.
Avoid restricted words like "Bank," "Trust," "Insurance," and professional terms requiring board approval per N.C.G.S. § 55D-20. You can reserve a name for 120 days for $10 if you need to secure it before filing.
Filing Fees & Processing Times
Standard processing: $125 (10–15 business days)
24-hour expedited service: $100
Same-day service: $200 (if submitted by noon)
After Formation
If you operate under a name different from your LLC name, file a DBA (assumed business name) with the Register of Deeds in your operating county and the statewide database.
Contact Information
North Carolina Secretary of State
Business Registration Division
Phone: (919) 814-5400
Website: https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/business_registration
Address: 2 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27601-2903
This is general information, not legal advice.