How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in Delaware?

Standard formation takes 2–3 business days under 6 Del. C. § 18-201. Delaware offers expedited processing: 24-hour (+$50), same-day (+$100), 2-hour (+$500), and 1-hour (+$1,000) options—all fees in addition to the $110 filing fee. File your Certificate of Formation online at https://icis.corp.delaware.gov/eCorp/ for fastest processing.

Standard Processing Timeline

The Delaware Division of Corporations processes LLC Certificates of Formation within 2–3 business days when filed online. This is the default option and requires no additional fees beyond the $110 filing fee. Online filing is faster than paper submissions.

Expedited Processing Options

Delaware offers four expedited tiers:

24-hour processing: +$50
Same-day processing: +$100
2-hour processing: +$500
1-hour processing: +$1,000

All expedited fees apply only to online filings and are separate from the base $110 filing fee. Choose expedited processing when you need your LLC operational immediately for time-sensitive transactions or contractual deadlines.

What to File

Your Certificate of Formation must include three elements under 6 Del. C. § 18-201:

LLC name containing "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." The name must be distinguishable on Division records and cannot use restricted words like "Bank," "University," or "Insurance."
Delaware registered office street address where your LLC maintains a physical location.
Registered agent name authorized to accept service of process at that address.

Before filing, verify your name is available at https://icis.corp.delaware.gov/Ecorp/EntitySearch/NameSearch.aspx. You may reserve a name for 120 days for $75 if needed.

After Formation

Once the Division approves your Certificate of Formation, file a DBA (Doing Business As) with each county prothonotary where you operate if you conduct business under a name other than your LLC's registered name.

Contact Information

Delaware Division of Corporations
John G. Townsend Building
401 Federal Street, Suite 4
Dover, DE 19901
Phone: (302) 739-3073
Website: https://corp.delaware.gov/

This is general information, not legal advice.