Are you thinking about starting a business in Wyoming? Are you curious about what it takes to open a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Cowboy State? Wyoming is one of the two states that doesn’t impose a corporate income tax. Add to this relatively low LLC formation fees, and you are in corporate heaven.
We have created nine simple steps to help you form an LLC in Wyoming. Following these instructions closely lets you quickly establish your business here. With that being said, let’s jump right into learning how to start an LLC in Wyoming!
Understand the Basics of an LLC – Wyoming LLC Benefits and Drawbacks
You’ve probably heard about Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) if you’re an entrepreneur or a small business owner. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your business? Simply put, an LLC is a legal structure that provides liability protection for its owners, also known as members. This means that if the business faces a lawsuit, only the business assets are at risk, not the members’ personal assets.
LLCs are also flexible in taxation, allowing members to choose how they want to be taxed. However, there are some drawbacks to consider, such as higher fees and more paperwork than a sole proprietorship or a partnership. Despite that, many entrepreneurs find that the benefits of LLCs outweigh the drawbacks, making them a popular choice among small business owners.
Choose a Name for Your LLC
Choosing a name for your limited liability company (LLC) can be exciting and overwhelming. After all, your company’s name is a crucial part of its identity and brand. You want something that stands out, is easy to remember, and aligns with your company’s values and mission.
Another thing to consider is whether your name complies with the state’s regulations. For instance, it needs to have some mandatory words, such as Limited Liability Company or its abbreviations LLC, L.L.C.
The name of your company can’t include certain words such as academy, college, back, CIA, FBI, and NASA, among others. Your name must be unique and can’t match or be similar to other Wyoming business entities. Make sure to check whether your name is available by searching the Wyoming database of existing names.
Hire a registered agent in Wyoming
All business entities in Wyoming need a registered agent who is responsible for receiving legal documents on your behalf. A registered agent can be an individual or a registered agent service that is authorized to conduct a business in Wyoming.
It’s important to mention that a registered agent must have a physical Wyoming address, which can’t be a drop box or a P.O. box. They also need to operate within regular business hours and a person who acts as a registered agent has to be 18 years old.
File the Articles of Organization with Wyoming’s Secretary of State
When it comes to starting a new business in Wyoming, one of the crucial steps is filing your company’s Articles of Organization with the state’s Secretary of State. This sets your business on the path to being officially recognized and registered in the eyes of the law.
While the process may seem daunting at first, it’s important to remember that it’s all part of the journey to achieving your entrepreneurial dreams. So, gather all the necessary information, take a deep breath, and start working towards your future.
Create Operating Agreement
While not required by law, an LLC operating agreement is a crucial tool for protecting the business and its members. It outlines how your company will be managed and operated. It’s a good idea to consult with a legal professional to ensure that the agreement covers all bases and accurately reflects the needs and goals of the company. By creating a solid operating agreement, you’ll be on the path to building a successful and sustainable business.
Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits
Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is essential to legally operating a business. While it may seem daunting, it’s important to take the time to research and obtain all the required documents. These licenses and permits vary depending on the type and location of your business, so make sure to check requirements with your local and state government.
Not only will obtaining these licenses and permits keep you out of legal trouble, but it also shows your customers that you run a legitimate operation.
Get EIN
To get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in Wyoming, businesses must undergo the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) application process. The EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned to businesses for tax filing purposes. The process can be completed online, by fax, mail, or phone.
To apply online, businesses must have a valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and complete the online EIN application form on the IRS website. The process is free and typically takes less than an hour to complete. Once the EIN is assigned, businesses can start their tax filings and comply with federal regulations related to employment and taxes.
Wyoming state income tax
Wyoming state typically taxes goods at a rate of 4%, but some county and local governments may add up to 2% in additional sales taxes. One of the best aspects of incorporating in Wyoming is that this state doesn’t impose a corporate state income tax, and you are only required to pay annual federal tax.
Annual report Wyoming
According to Wyoming law, all business entities must file an annual report with the Secretary of State and pay yearly license tax. This tax typically costs $50 or 0.00002% of the value of your company’s assets. You will have to file an annual report and pay the license tax by the first day of the month of your company’s formation.
Open a Business Bank Account
Opening a business bank account is an essential step towards establishing your Wyoming LLC financial foundation. Not only does it provide a centralized location to manage cash flow, but it also helps separate your personal finances from your business ones. When considering which bank to choose, take the time to research what they offer in terms of services, fees, and customer support.
Some banks even offer specialized accounts tailored to the specific needs of different industries. So, whether you’re a small business owner or an entrepreneur starting anew, investing in a business bank account can set you toward long-term financial stability.
The best states to start an LLC
Choosing the best state to start an LLC depends on various factors, such as the cost of formation, tax laws, business-friendly regulations, liability protection, and more. Here are some states that are popular for forming an LLC:
Delaware
Delaware is known for its business-friendly laws and tax benefits, making it a popular destination for LLC formation. It also has a separate court system for businesses, offering faster trial times and strong legal protections.
Nevada
Nevada is known for its low taxes, strong corporate privacy laws, and no state income tax. It also has low filing fees and minimal reporting requirements.
Wyoming
Wyoming is known for its low fees and taxes, simple ongoing maintenance requirements, and excellent asset protection laws. It also has a fast-processing time for LLC formation.
Florida
Florida is known for its low taxes and business-friendly regulations. It also has no state income tax, franchise tax, or personal income tax.
Texas
Texas is known for its business-friendly climate, low taxes, and favorable regulations. It has a strong economy and plenty of resources for businesses.
It’s essential to research and understand the laws and regulations in each state and consult with a legal professional to determine which state is best for your business.
How much does it cost to start a business in Wyoming?
The filing fee for an LLC in Wyoming is $102. Also, once a year, your Wyoming company is required to pay an annual report license tax of $60. However, the great news is that there is no corporate income tax.
Starting an LLC in Wyoming is a relatively simple process, provided you have the right information and documents. You don’t have to deal with it on your own. You can always hire a service such as Business Anywhere that handles all necessary paperwork and executes the registration process, making sure you are fully compliant.
