"How do I file an LLC in Massachusetts?"
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Forming an LLC in Massachusetts requires choosing a name, designating a registered agent, filing a Certificate of Organization with a $500 fee, and completing post‑formation tasks like obtaining an EIN and filing an annual report.
Quick Facts
- $500 filing fee for the Certificate of Organization
- Must include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” in the name
- Registered agent must be a Massachusetts resident or authorized business
- Annual report and $500 renewal fee due each year
AI Consensus
Models Agreed
- Name requirement: Must include “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company” and be unique1.
- Registered agent: Must be a Massachusetts resident or authorized business1.
- Certificate of Organization filing fee: $500, filed online, by mail, or in‑person2.
- Operating agreement: Not mandatory but strongly advised to outline governance1.
Points of Debate
- EIN and annual report: The first response includes obtaining an EIN and filing an annual report with a $500 renewal fee, while the second response omits these post‑formation steps.
How to File an LLC in Massachusetts
1. Choose a Business Name
- Must be distinguishable from existing entities in the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s database.
- Must contain “LLC,” “L.L.C.” or “Limited Liability Company.”
- Check availability online on the Corporations Division site1.
2. Designate a Registered Agent
- The agent must be a resident of Massachusetts or a business authorized to act as an agent in the state1.
- This person or entity receives legal and tax documents on the LLC’s behalf.
3. Prepare and File the Certificate of Organization
- Required information: LLC name, principal office address (must be in MA), registered agent name and address, and optionally the management structure.
- Filing fee: $5002.
- Submission options:
- Online via Mass.gov (fastest)
- Mail or in‑person to the Corporations Division1.
- After filing you’ll receive a certified copy and acknowledgment.
4. Draft an Operating Agreement (optional but strongly recommended)
- Not required by state law, but it defines ownership percentages, voting rights, profit distribution, and management duties1.
5. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- Apply for free on the IRS website if the LLC will have employees, open a bank account, or be taxed as a corporation1.
6. Register for State Taxes
- If you have employees, sell taxable goods, or owe other state taxes, register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR)6.
- The DOR portal handles sales tax, withholding tax, and other obligations.
7. Secure Required Licenses & Permits
- Depending on industry, you may need local city or county permits, professional licenses, or special state permits. Check the Massachusetts Business Licensing Center for specifics1.
8. Ongoing Compliance
- Annual Report: File each year by the anniversary of formation, accompanied by a $500 renewal fee1.
- Keep the registered agent information current and maintain the operating agreement as needed.
Quick Reference Links
- Filing the Certificate of Organization & fee details: Mass.gov – Starting a LLC1
- Certificate filing fee & amendment info: Secretary of the Commonwealth – LLC filing fee2
- Step‑by‑step guide (name, agent, filing, operating agreement): Chamber of Commerce guide3
- LegalZoom overview of filing steps: LegalZoom – How to start an LLC in MA4
- Tax registration requirements: Mass.gov – MA Tax Requirements6
Following these steps will get your Massachusetts LLC officially formed and ready to operate.
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