Forming an Idaho LLC
(2025 Guide)
2025 LLC Guide
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forms your LLC with Northwest for $39 (60% off). Details inside.
How to Start an LLC in Idaho (Step-by-Step Guide)
Discover how to start an LLC in Idaho, our step-by-step guide. Learn the essential requirements and process to form your business today.
To establish an LLC in Idaho, you must submit a Certificate of Organization to the Idaho Secretary of State. The filing fee is $100, and the approval process typically takes 7 days.
Here are the 5 steps you should take:
Choose an LLC Name
Select a Registered Agent
File a Certificate of Organization
Create an Operating Agreement
Get an EIN
If you prefer to set up your LLC on your own, you can follow our free guide below. Alternatively, if you’d like professional assistance, we suggest hiring Northwest Registered Agent.
Need to save time?
Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee) or LegalZoom ($149 + state fee).
(See why Northwest is #1: Northwest vs LegalZoom.)
What is the cost to establish an LLC in Idaho?
The fee is $100 to form an LLC. This amount covers the filing of the Certificate of Organization, which officially establishes the LLC. For additional details on LLC expenses, refer to LLC Costs in Idaho.
How quickly can you obtain an LLC in Idaho?
Submitting your LLC application by mail results in approval within 5-7 business days, excluding mailing time. Filing online also leads to approval within 5-7 business days. For any potential delays, consult the section on How long does it take to get an LLC in Idaho.
Here are the steps to forming an LLC in Idaho
1. Search Your LLC Name
Begin by searching your LLC name to ensure it’s available within the state. This step is crucial because no two businesses in Idaho can share the same name.
Start by comparing your desired business name with those already registered in the state. You can verify the uniqueness of your preferred LLC name using the Idaho Secretary of State’s Business Search tool.
Next, acquaint yourself with the state’s naming regulations to ensure your LLC name meets approval standards.
We’ll delve into both aspects further: Idaho LLC Name.
Note:
Most people choose “LLC”.
2. Select a Idaho Registered Agent
The following step involves selecting a Registered Agent. A Idaho Registered Agent is an individual or company responsible for receiving legal mail and state notices on behalf of your Idaho Limited Liability Company.
Who is eligible to be an LLC Registered Agent? You have three options for appointing a Registered Agent:
You
A friend or family member
A Registered Agent Service
Idaho mandates that LLC Registered Agents must maintain a physical street address within the state. PO Boxes are not permissible. The name and address of the Registered Agent will be included in public records.
If you lack an address in Idaho or desire increased privacy, you can opt for a Registered Agent Service for your LLC.
We suggest Northwest Registered Agent
One of the aspects we appreciate most about Northwest is their willingness to allow you to use their office address for your LLC filing. This ensures your personal address is not listed in public records.
Additionally, they provide a service to scan any mail addressed to your LLC and upload it to your online account. Northwest offers exceptional customer service, and we trust them as our own Registered Agent.
Special offer:
Form your LLC with Northwest for $39 + state fee and get a free year of Registered Agent service.
(Read our Northwest Registered Agent review.)
3. Submit a Certificate of Organization
To establish an LLC, you must submit a Certificate of Organization to the Idaho Secretary of State.
The fee for filing the Idaho Certificate of Organization is $100 when done online. This is a one-time charge to form your LLC. If you prefer to handle this process yourself, refer to our detailed guide: Idaho Certificate of Organization. Alternatively, you can employ a service to manage it on your behalf.
Need to save time?
Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee) or LegalZoom ($149 + state fee).
(See why Northwest is #1: Northwest vs LegalZoom.)
4. Draft an LLC Operating Agreement
An LLC Operating Agreement acts as a complementary document to the Certificate of Formation. While the Certificate of Formation establishes your LLC, the Operating Agreement identifies the owners of the LLC.
Moreover, many banks require an Operating Agreement when setting up an LLC bank account. It is also invaluable if legal issues arise, as it demonstrates the proper management of your LLC. For these reasons, we advise all LLCs, including Single-Member LLCs, to have an Operating Agreement.
Additionally, an Operating Agreement is considered an “internal document.” This means you don’t need to file it with the state or the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). Simply keep a copy with your business records. You can download a free template below. Then, watch our Idaho Operating Agreement video for a step-by-step guide on how to complete it.
Download a free LLC Operating Agreement:
Member-managed: Google Doc | Word | PDF
Manager-managed: Google Doc | Word
(What’s better? See Member-managed vs Manager-managed LLC)
5. Obtain an EIN for Your LLC
The following step is to secure a Igaho EIN from the IRS for your LLC. Note: An EIN, also known as a Federal Tax ID Number or Federal Employer Identification Number, is essential.
An EIN is needed to:
– Identify your LLC for tax purposes
– Open a business bank account
– Apply for business licenses and permits
How much does an EIN cost? The IRS provides an EIN at no charge.
How long does it take to receive an EIN? Online applications are processed in 15 minutes, while mail or fax applications may take 1-3 months.
How can I obtain an EIN?
– US Citizens/Residents: With an SSN or ITIN, apply online. Follow these instructions: Apply for an EIN online.
– Non-US Residents: You can’t apply online, but you can obtain an EIN via fax or mail. See these instructions: How to get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN.
What should I do after my LLC is approved?
After your LLC approval, there are a few more steps to take.
Open an LLC business bank account
It’s important to set up a business bank account for your LLC. This simplifies accounting and record-keeping for your business finances. Maintaining a separate business account also protects your personal liability by keeping business and personal finances distinct.
Obtain business licenses and permits
The good news is that Idaho doesn’t require a state general business license. However, you might need a local business license or permit depending on your LLC’s location. For instance, starting a daycare may require a city or county business license. More information is available on our Idaho Business License page.
File your LLC Annual Report
Each year, all Idaho LLCs must submit an Annual Report. This report ensures your LLC remains in good standing with the state. How much does it cost to file an Idaho Annual Report? It’s free ($0). When is the Annual Report due? It must be filed by the last day of your LLC’s anniversary month. For example, if your LLC was approved on March 15, the Annual Report is due by March 31. When is the first Annual Report due? It’s due the year following your LLC’s approval. For example, if your LLC was approved on March 15, 2025, the first report is due by March 31, 2026. How do I file it? The Annual Report can be filed online or by mail, though online filing is recommended for convenience. Follow our step-by-step guide here: Idaho LLC Annual Report.
File and pay taxes
LLCs don’t pay federal taxes directly; instead, the LLC Members pay taxes on the LLC’s behalf as part of their personal tax returns. How is your LLC taxed? The IRS taxes an LLC based on its number of owners: A Single-Member LLC is taxed like a Sole Proprietorship, while a Multi-Member LLC is taxed like a Partnership. Alternatively, you can request the IRS to tax your LLC as a C-Corporation or S-Corporation. Married Couples: In Idaho, a community property state, married couples can choose to have their LLC taxed as a Single-Member LLC (also known as a Qualified Joint Venture) instead of as a Partnership. In addition to federal taxes, there are state and local income taxes, as well as sales tax. Learn more in Idaho LLC Taxes.
Helpful Resources
Idaho Secretary of State
Website: Idaho Secretary of State
Phone: 208-334-2301
Hours: Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, Mountain Time
Idaho State Tax Commission
Website: Idaho State Tax Commission
Phone: 208-334-7660 or 800-972-7660
Hours: Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm, Mountain Time
How to Start an LLC in Idaho FAQs
Can I start an LLC online in Idaho?
Absolutely, you can file your LLC online in Idaho for a fee of $100 for the Certificate of Organization. Once you file online, expect approval within 5-7 business days.
What are the benefits of an LLC?
One major benefit of forming an LLC is the protection of personal assets. In the event of a lawsuit against your business, personal assets such as your home, vehicles, and bank accounts remain safeguarded. This protection extends to all LLC members, whether in a Single-Member or Multi-Member LLC, shielding them from business debts and liabilities. Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships do not offer this level of protection, making LLCs a more favored business structure. Additionally, LLCs benefit from pass-through taxation, meaning the company itself does not pay federal income taxes. Instead, profits are passed to the members, who then report them on their individual tax returns. State income taxes follow a similar pattern, aligning with federal tax treatment. For more details, refer to How are LLCs taxed.
Is Idaho a good state to start an LLC?
Determining if Idaho is a suitable state to start an LLC depends on your residence and business location. If you reside or conduct business in Idaho, it makes sense to establish your LLC there. While some websites highlight tax benefits in certain states, these advantages are irrelevant if you’re not living or doing business in that state. For instance, forming an LLC in Wyoming while living and conducting business in Idaho would require you to register the Wyoming LLC in Idaho, incurring additional fees and resulting in paying Idaho taxes regardless. This leads to extra costs and complications without any real benefit. In summary, if you live and do business in Idaho, it’s a good state to start a business. Otherwise, it isn’t advisable.
Real estate exception: If you’re purchasing property outside Idaho, form your LLC in the state where the property is situated. For further guidance, consult Best State to Form an LLC.
About Us
We specialize in guiding individuals through the process of forming LLCs across all states, while also offering a range of comprehensive business services tailored to entrepreneurs.
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