Forming a New Jersey LLC
(2025 Guide)
2025 LLC Guide
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How to Start an LLC in New Jersey (Step-by-Step Guide)
Discover how to start an LLC in New Jersey, our step-by-step guide. Learn the essential requirements and process to form your business today.
To establish an LLC in New Jersey, submit a “Public Records Filing for New Business Entity” to the New Jersey Division of Revenue. This filing costs $125 and is approved within one day.
There are six steps involved:
– Choose an LLC Name
– Select a Registered Agent
– File a Certificate of Formation/Public Records Filing
– Create an LLC Operating Agreement
– Obtain an EIN for your LLC
– Submit a Business Registration Application
If you prefer to handle the process 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 New Jersey?
Establishing an LLC in New Jersey requires a $125 fee. Additionally, there is a $75 annual fee. The initial $125 fee covers the Public Record Filing for New Business Entity, which officially creates the LLC. The $75 annual fee is for the Annual Report, a required filing to maintain your LLC’s good standing. Note: Multi-Member LLCs incur an extra $150 per year (per Member) known as the Minimum Partner Tax. For further details on LLC Costs, refer to LLC Costs in New Jersey.
How long does it take to form an LLC in New Jersey?
Filing by mail results in approval within 5-7 business days (plus mailing time). However, if you opt for online filing, approval occurs in just 1 business day. For updates on potential delays, please refer to How long does it take to get an LLC in New Jersey.
Here’s how to establish an LLC in New Jersey
1. Conduct a Search for Your LLC Name
Conduct a search for your LLC name to ensure it’s available within the state.
This step is essential since no two businesses in the state can share the same name. Begin by searching your desired business name and comparing it to those already registered in New Jersey. Next, acquaint yourself with the state’s naming criteria to ensure your LLC name is approved. You can verify the availability and uniqueness of your chosen LLC name by using the Business Name Search and Business Name Availability pages. We will provide more details on this here: New Jersey LLC Name.
Note:
Most people choose “LLC”.
2. Select a New Jersey Registered Agent
The following step involves selecting a Registered Agent. A New Jersey Registered Agent is an individual or company responsible for receiving legal mail and state notices on behalf of your New Jersey 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
New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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. File New Jersey Public Records Filing & Certificate of Formation
To establish an LLC, you must complete a Public Records Filing for a New Business Entity. Filing online in New Jersey costs $125. This is a one-time fee for setting up your LLC.
These filings are submitted to the New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services. Once approved, your Public Records Filing becomes your LLC’s Certificate of Formation.
Pro Tip: Keep your Certificate of Formation accessible with your business documents. The Entity ID Number on this certificate is necessary when you submit your Business Registration Application. We’ll cover this in the subsequent steps. Note: In New Jersey, “Public Records Filing” and “Certificate of Formation” are often used to mean the same thing.
What’s the difference between LLC formation and LLC registration in New Jersey? In this state, “formation” and “registration” refer to two distinct processes. The “formation” involves the Public Records Filing. The “registration” involves the Business Registration Application. Here’s the process: First, you file a Public Records Filing for a New Business Entity to form your LLC. After the NJ Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services approves it, it becomes a Certificate of Formation. Next, you use the Entity ID Number from your Certificate of Formation to complete the Business Registration Application. Approval of the formation results in a stamped Certificate of Formation. Registration approval includes a Business Registration Certificate and, if needed, a Sales Tax Certificate of Authority. If you wish to handle the formation documents yourself, refer to our step-by-step guide: New Jersey Certificate of Formation & Public Records Filing. Alternatively, you can hire a company to complete it for you.
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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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.
6. Submit a Business Registration Application
All LLCs in New Jersey are required to register with the New Jersey Division of Taxation within 60 days after the LLC is approved. This is accomplished by submitting the Business Registration Application to the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
What is the cost for a New Jersey Business Registration Application? There is no charge to file the Business Registration Application.
How can I register a New Jersey LLC? To register a New Jersey LLC, you must file the Business Registration Application (or NJ-REG). This can be done either online or by mail. We suggest filing online as it is more convenient and offers quicker approval.
When should I register a New Jersey LLC? Your LLC must be registered at least 15 days before starting any business operations, and no later than 60 days following LLC approval. It is also necessary to register your LLC once the formation is approved and after obtaining an EIN from the IRS. This is because the LLC’s Entity ID number and EIN number are required to complete the Business Registration Application.
For detailed instructions, refer to: New Jersey LLC Registration.
What should I do after my LLC is approved?
After obtaining approval for your LLC, there are a few important steps to take.
Open a business bank account for your LLC
Establishing a separate business bank account simplifies accounting and ensures clear financial records. It also safeguards your personal liability protection by keeping your business finances distinct from your personal ones.
Acquire business licenses and permits
Fortunately, New Jersey does not require a state general business license. However, depending on your LLC’s location, you might need a local business license or permit. For instance, starting a daycare may necessitate a license from the city or county. More information can be found on our New Jersey Business License page.
Submit your New Jersey Annual Report
Every New Jersey LLC must file an Annual Report each year to maintain good standing with the state. The filing fee for the LLC Annual Report is $75 annually. The report is due by your LLC’s anniversary date each year, which is the date of state approval. For example, if your LLC was approved on October 10, 2025, your Annual Report is due by October 10 annually. Your first Annual Report is due the year following your LLC’s approval; if approved on October 15, 2025, it is due by October 15, 2026. The report can only be filed online in New Jersey, with no mail option available. For more details, follow our comprehensive guide on the New Jersey LLC Annual Report.
Handle and pay taxes
LLCs themselves do not pay federal taxes; instead, the LLC members pay taxes as part of their personal tax returns. By default, the IRS taxes LLCs based on the number of owners: a Single-Member LLC is treated like a Sole Proprietorship, while a Multi-Member LLC is taxed like a Partnership. Alternatively, you can elect for your LLC to be taxed like a C-Corporation or S-Corporation. Additionally, state and local income taxes, as well as sales tax, may apply. Explore more in New Jersey LLC Taxes.
Helpful Resources
The New Jersey Department of Treasury includes both the Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services and the Division of Taxation as its subdivisions.
The New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services is responsible for the formation and registration of LLCs in the state.
And the New Jersey Division of Taxation is responsible for New Jersey tax filings.
New Jersey Department of Treasury
Website
Youtube | Facebook | Twitter
New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services
Website
Phone: 609-292-9292
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm Eastern
New Jersey Division of Taxation
Website
Phone: 609-292-6400
Hours: 8:30am to 4:30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday and 10am to 5:30pm on Wednesdays
How to Start an LLC in New Jersey FAQs
Can I start an LLC online in New Jersey?
Yes, establishing an LLC online in New Jersey is possible. The Public Records filing fee is $125. Once you file your LLC online, it will be approved within 1 business day.
What are the benefits of an LLC?
The primary advantage of an LLC is the protection of personal assets. If your business faces a lawsuit, your personal assets—such as your home, vehicles, and bank accounts—remain safe. This protection extends to all LLC owners, known as LLC Members, regardless of whether you have a Single-Member or Multi-Member LLC. This safeguard is not available for Sole Proprietorships or Partnerships, where owners are exposed to business debts and liabilities. Consequently, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) have become a more popular business structure. Another benefit is LLC pass-through taxation, meaning the LLC itself doesn’t pay federal income taxes. Instead, profits pass through to the LLC Members, who pay taxes on their personal tax returns. New Jersey state income taxes align with this federal tax treatment. For more details, refer to How are LLCs taxed
Is New Jersey a good state to start an LLC?
Whether New Jersey is suitable for starting an LLC depends on your residence and business location. If you reside in or conduct business in New Jersey, it’s advisable to establish your LLC there. Many websites discuss tax benefits of certain states, but these are irrelevant if it’s not where you live and operate. For instance, forming an LLC in Delaware while living and doing business in New Jersey requires registering the Delaware LLC in New Jersey, incurring additional fees and taxes. This usually leads to higher costs and complications. In short, if you live and do business in New Jersey, then yes, it’s a good state for an LLC. Otherwise, it’s not advisable. Exception: If buying real estate outside New Jersey, form your LLC where the property is. For more guidance, see Best State to Form an LLC.
What is the difference between a Domestic LLC, a Foreign LLC, and a PLLC?
The distinctions between Domestic LLCs, Foreign LLCs, and Professional LLCs lie in their formation location and business purpose. A Domestic Limited Liability Company is formed in its “home state,” where the business owner resides and operates. For example, if you’re in New Jersey, you’d form your Domestic LLC there. A Foreign Limited Liability Company is established in a state different from its home state. Here, “foreign” indicates that the LLC is outside its home state. For instance, if you expand your New Jersey LLC into New York, you’d register it as a Foreign LLC in New York. LLCs are state-level entities, and conducting business in multiple states requires forming or registering an LLC in each. This involves creating a Domestic LLC in your home state and a Foreign LLC in the other. For more on Foreign and Domestic LLCs, see: Foreign LLCs by State and Difference between Domestic LLCs and Foreign LLCs.
What is a PLLC?
A Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) is an LLC designed for offering “professional services.” Here, “professional” refers to business types that need special permissions such as licenses, registrations, or certifications from the state to operate legally. Professions like architects, attorneys, social work counselors, doctors, and veterinarians often form PLLCs. For more on PLLCs, their availability, and stricter requirements, read: What’s a Professional 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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