How to File an LLC in Alabama

1. Choose and (optionally) Reserve Your Business Name

• Must be distinguishable from existing entities and contain “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company.”
• Name reservation is optional; you can file a Name Reservation Certificate if you wish¹.

2. Appoint a Registered Agent

• The agent must have a physical address in Alabama and be available during business hours to receive legal documents¹.

3. Prepare the Certificate of Formation

• Download the Domestic LLC Certificate of Formation PDF from the Secretary of State website and fill in required fields (name, registered agent, management structure, purpose, etc.)².
• Attach the Name Reservation Certificate if you reserved the name.

4. File the Certificate of Formation

Filing Method	Where to Submit	Fee*
Online (Alabama Interactive)	https://www.alabamainteractive.org/sos/introduction_input.action	$200
By Mail	Secretary of State, Business Services, P.O. Box 5616, Montgomery, AL 36105‑5616 (or 36104 per some forms)	$200 (domestic) / $150 (foreign)

• Online is faster and uses the same $200 fee for domestic LLCs³⁵.
• Mail requires two original copies of the completed form, a self‑addressed stamped envelope, and a check or money order for the filing fee¹.

*Fee amounts differ in sources: most cite $200 for domestic filings; one source notes $150 for mail submissions. Verify the current fee on the Secretary of State site before filing.

5. Receive Confirmation

• After processing, the Secretary of State will issue a stamped Certificate of Formation, confirming your LLC’s legal existence¹.

6. File the Initial Business Privilege Tax Return

• Submit Form CPT‑1 within 2½ months (≈90 days) of formation to the Alabama Department of Revenue. This establishes your tax status¹¹⁰.

7. Obtain Local Licenses & Permits

• Depending on your business type and location, you may need city or county permits, professional licenses, or other regulatory approvals¹.

8. Draft an Operating Agreement (Optional but Recommended)

• Though not filed with the state, an operating agreement outlines ownership, management duties, and profit‑sharing rules, helping prevent future disputes¹⁶.

9. Ongoing Compliance

• File annual reports, keep the registered agent current, and renew the Business Privilege Tax return to maintain good standing¹.

Quick Checklist

✅	Action
1	Verify name availability & reserve (optional)
2	Designate a qualified registered agent
3	Complete the Certificate of Formation
4	File online or mail the form with the appropriate fee
5	Receive stamped Certificate of Formation
6	File initial Business Privilege Tax Return (Form CPT‑1)
7	Secure any required local licenses/permits
8	Create an operating agreement (optional)
9	Maintain annual compliance (reports, taxes)

Sources: Alabama Secretary of State LLC page¹, Certificate of Formation PDF², LLC University 2025 guide³, Alabama Interactive portal⁵, LegalZoom overview⁶, FindLaw tax requirement summary¹⁰.