FAQ pages are short editorial summaries of the longer state and tax guides. Use the linked state agency before filing or relying on a deadline.
Can I operate in North Carolina with an out-of-state LLC?
Yes, but you must register first. An out-of-state LLC cannot legally conduct business in North Carolina without obtaining a Certificate of Authority from the North Carolina Secretary of State. File an Application for Certificate of Authority, pay a $250 registration fee, provide a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state, and appoint a registered agent with a physical North Carolina address.
Registration Requirements
Submit your Application for Certificate of Authority to the North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division. File online at https://www.sosnc.gov/online_filing/filing/creation or contact (919) 814-5400.
Required documents:
- Application for Certificate of Authority
- Certificate of Good Standing from your home state
- $250 filing fee
You must register before conducting business in North Carolina.
Registered Agent Requirement
North Carolina requires a registered agent under N.C.G.S. §§ 55D-30 and 55D-31. Your agent must be either:
- An individual resident of North Carolina with a business office in the state, or
- A domestic or authorized foreign entity with a physical office in North Carolina
A member of your LLC may serve as registered agent. The registered office address must be a physical street address—P.O. Boxes are not acceptable. The Secretary of State cannot serve as your agent.
Annual Compliance
After registration, you must file an annual report each year for a $203 fee. If you change your registered agent or office address, file the Limited Liability Company's Statement of Change of Registered Agent and/or Registered Office for a $5 fee.
Failure to maintain compliance may result in administrative dissolution of your Certificate of Authority.
Withdrawal
To stop operating in North Carolina, file a withdrawal application for a $10 fee.
Contact Information
North Carolina Secretary of State, Business Registration Division
PO Box 29622, Raleigh, NC 27626-0622
Phone: (919) 814-5400
Website: https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/business_registration
This is general information, not legal advice.