Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation
(Full Guide)
2025 LLC Guide
How to File Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation (Simple Guide)
Learn how to file Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation. This guide simplifies the process with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips.
The Certificate of Formation is the official document that brings your Alabama LLC to life. Here’s a breakdown of the filing process and fees:
Alabama LLC Filing Fee:
- Certificate of Formation: $200 (one-time fee)
- Name Reservation (if filed separately): $28 (one-time fee)
Total Filing Fee (online): $228
Important Notes:
- One-time fee: The $200 Certificate of Formation fee is only paid once when you initially form your LLC.
- Online vs. mail: The $200 fee is the same whether you file online or by mail.
- Name reservation: Alabama requires an LLC Name Reservation, which can be filed separately for $28 or included in the online Certificate of Formation filing.
Why file online?
- Faster processing: Online filings are typically approved instantly.
- Convenience: You can complete the entire process from your computer.
- Combined filing: You can file your Name Reservation and Certificate of Formation together online.
How to File Your Certificate of Formation Online:
- Go to the website: Visit the Alabama Secretary of State Online Services website.
- Choose your filing: Select “Domestic LLC Formation.”
- Create an account: You’ll need to create an account to access the online filing system.
- Complete the form: Fill out the Certificate of Formation with your LLC’s information, including:
- LLC name
- Registered Agent information
- Effective date
- Management structure
- Other required details
- Pay the fee: Submit your payment online using a credit card or debit card.
- Download your certificate: Once your filing is approved, you can download your Certificate of Formation.
Filing your Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation is a crucial step in establishing your business. By choosing the online filing option and understanding the associated fees, you can streamline the process and get your LLC up and running quickly.
Forming Your Alabama LLC: Choosing the Right Filing Method
You have two options for filing your Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation: by mail or online. While both methods achieve the same result, there are some key differences to consider:
Filing Fees:
- By Mail:
- Certificate of Formation: $200
- Name Reservation (if filed online): $28
- Total: $228
- Online:
- Certificate of Formation: $200
- Name Reservation: $28
- Online Processing Fee: $8
- Total: $236
Processing Time:
- By Mail: 1-2 business days (plus mail delivery time)
- Online: Immediate approval
Delivery of Approval:
- By Mail: Physical mail
- Online: Email
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How to File by Mail:
- Download the form: Get the Certificate of Formation (revised 09/2022) from the Alabama Secretary of State website.
- Complete the form: Fill it out on your computer (no handwriting).
- Prepare payment: Pay the $200 fee by check, money order, or credit card. Make checks/money orders payable to “Secretary of State.”
- Include copies: Send two copies of the completed form, a self-addressed stamped envelope, and a copy of your LLC Name Reservation Certificate (if you filed it separately).
- Mail the documents: Send everything to: Secretary of State Business Services PO Box 5616 Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5616
While both mail and online filing options are available, online filing offers significant advantages in terms of speed, convenience, and ease of access to your approved documents. Choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences, keeping in mind the specific requirements for PLLCs.
Before You File Your Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation
Filing your Certificate of Formation is a major step in launching your Alabama LLC. But before you dive in, make sure you’ve covered these two important prerequisites:
1. Reserve Your LLC Name
Alabama requires all LLCs to reserve their name before officially forming the business. This ensures that your desired name is available and prevents others from using it.
- Already have a name in mind? Use the Alabama Business Entity Search tool to check its availability.
- Need help choosing a name? Review our guide on Alabama LLC Name Reservation for tips and guidelines.
2. Select a Registered Agent
Every Alabama LLC needs a Registered Agent to receive legal documents and official mail on behalf of the business.
- Consider your options: You can be your own Registered Agent, designate a trusted individual, or hire a professional Registered Agent service.
- Weigh the pros and cons: Understand the responsibilities and potential risks associated with each option.
- Need help deciding? Refer to our guide on Alabama LLC Registered Agent for detailed information and recommendations.
Why are these steps important?
- Avoids rejection: Having a reserved name and a designated Registered Agent ensures your Certificate of Formation won’t be rejected.
- Saves time: Completing these steps beforehand streamlines the LLC formation process.
- Ensures compliance: It helps you meet Alabama’s legal requirements for LLC formation.
Ready to move forward?
Once you’ve reserved your LLC name and chosen a Registered Agent, you’re ready to file your Certificate of Formation.
Need more guidance?
Check out our comprehensive guide on filing your Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation for step-by-step instructions.
Don’t rush into filing your Certificate of Formation. Take the time to reserve your LLC name and select a Registered Agent to ensure a smooth and successful LLC formation process in Alabama.
How to Form Your Alabama LLC Online
This guide provides step-by-step instructions for forming your Alabama LLC online through the Secretary of State’s website.
Before You Begin:
- Complete prerequisites: Make sure you’ve reserved your LLC name and selected a Registered Agent.
- Gather information: You’ll need details like your LLC name, Registered Agent information, and management structure.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1.Access the online portal:
- Go to the Alabama Secretary of State: Online Services website.
- Click “Domestic Business Filing.”
- Click “Domestic Formation.”
- Scroll down and click “Non-Subscriber.”
2. Enter contact information:
- Provide your contact information and address. This is for communication purposes only and won’t be part of the public record.
3. Handle LLC Name Reservation:
- If you already have a Name Reservation, enter your Reservation ID.
- If not, enter your desired LLC name, select “Domestic” and “Limited Liability Company (LLC),” and click “Continue.”
- Choose “File of Formation Data” to proceed with forming your LLC.
4. Provide requestor information:
Enter the details of the person or organization reserving the LLC name.
5. Confirm LLC name:
- Review and confirm the LLC name information.
6. Specify county:
- Enter the county where your Registered Agent’s address is located.
7.Choose filing options:
- Select “Limited Liability Company.”
- If desired, enter a delayed effective date (up to 90 days in the future).
8. Enter Registered Agent information:
- Select whether your Registered Agent is an individual or organization.
- Provide their contact information and address.
9. Skip organizer information (for now):
- You’ll sign the document later, so you can skip this section for now.
10. Skip document uploads (optional):
- You can upload additional documents, like a list of LLC members, if needed.
11. Review summary and sign:
- Carefully review your filing for accuracy.
- Sign electronically by typing your name and title.
12. Make payment:
- Provide your payment information and submit the filing fee.
Congratulations!
Your Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation has been successfully submitted. You’ll receive immediate approval and can download your approved document.
Key Takeaway:
Forming your Alabama LLC online is a straightforward process. By following these steps and completing the necessary prerequisites, you can quickly and efficiently establish your business.
Alabama LLC Approval Time: Instant Online, Speedy by Mail
When you file your Alabama LLC Certificate of Formation online, you’ll receive instant approval. This means you can have your LLC up and running in minutes!
Here’s a breakdown of the approval process:
- Submit your filing: Complete the online Certificate of Formation through the Alabama Secretary of State website.
- Receive email confirmation: Within minutes, you’ll receive an email at the address you provided in your application.
- Download your certificate: The email will contain a link to download a stamped and approved copy of your Certificate of Formation.
Why is instant approval beneficial?
- Faster formation: You can proceed with your business activities immediately without waiting for a response by mail.
- Peace of mind: You have confirmation that your LLC is officially formed.
- Efficiency: It streamlines the LLC formation process and avoids delays.
Online filing for Alabama LLCs offers the convenience of instant approval and quick access to your approved Certificate of Formation. By following these guidelines and saving your certificate promptly, you can ensure a smooth and efficient LLC formation process.
Need Help with Your Alabama LLC Formation?
If you have any questions or need assistance with forming your Alabama LLC, you can contact the Alabama Secretary of State: Business Services division.
- Phone: 334-242-5324
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Central Time
Ready to Build Your Online Presence?
Once your LLC is formed, consider registering a domain name for your business website. This helps customers find you online and establishes your brand presence.
Hostinger is a popular and user-friendly platform for searching and purchasing domain names.
Start by doing a domain name search to check if a domain name is available. Remember to also check it has not been trademarked.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my Certificate of Formation approved?
If you file online, it’s usually approved immediately. By mail, it can take a few business days.
What happens after my Certificate of Formation is approved?
You’ll receive an email with a link to download a copy of your approved certificate.
Do I need to file anything else after the Certificate of Formation?
You might need to obtain any required business licenses and permits, and you’ll need to file an annual report with the state.
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