Virginia LLC Formation: Process and Filing Costs

Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Virginia can be a straightforward process when you know the right steps to take. This guide breaks down each requirement, cost, and form you’ll need—based on verified information from the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) and the IRS. Whether you’re a US small business owner or an entrepreneur expanding operations, this article will help you navigate your LLC filing confidently.

1. File Articles of Organization

To officially form your LLC in Virginia, you must file Articles of Organization (Form LLC-1011) with the State Corporation Commission (SCC).

• Filing fee: $100 (one-time fee)

• Filing methods: Online via CIS Portal, by mail, or in person

• Processing time: Usually 2–3 business days for online filings; 10–15 days by mail

What to include in your Articles of Organization:

• LLC name (must contain “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”)

• Registered agent’s full name and physical Virginia address

• Principal office address

• Organizer’s name and signature

• Optional: effective start date (if not immediate)

Once accepted, your LLC becomes legally recognized by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

2. Appoint a Registered Agent

Every Virginia LLC must appoint a registered agent who can accept legal and government documents on behalf of the business.

Requirements:

• Must have a physical street address in Virginia (P.O. boxes are not accepted)

• Can be:

  • A Virginia resident, or

  • A business entity authorized to operate in Virginia

3. Create an Operating Agreement (Recommended)

Although Virginia does not legally require LLCs to have an Operating Agreement, creating one is highly advised.

Purpose of an Operating Agreement:

• Defines ownership percentages and member roles

• Clarifies voting rights, profit/loss allocation, and decision-making

• Helps prevent disputes and maintain limited liability status

• Provides structure if you add or remove members later

It’s an internal document—no need to file it with the SCC—but essential for good record-keeping and compliance.

 Still doing accounting the old way? Your competitors aren’t. Counto’s AI handles the boring stuff while experienced accountants ensure everything’s perfect. See the future of accounting here.

4. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Your LLC will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to handle taxes, hire employees, and open business bank accounts.

• Issued by: Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

• Cost: Free

• Apply: Online via the IRS website

• Timeframe: Immediate upon completion

Even single-member LLCs benefit from having an EIN, as it separates business and personal finances for better bookkeeping.

5. Pay the Annual Registration Fee

To keep your Virginia LLC in good standing, you must pay an annual registration fee.

• Amount: $50

• Due date: Last day of the month in which your LLC was formed

• Filed with: Virginia SCC

• Penalty for late payment: $25 late fee and risk of business dissolution if unpaid for three months

You can pay online through the SCC CIS portal, which also allows you to track your business status.

6. Optional Filings and Costs

Here are some additional filings that may apply to your Virginia LLC:

• Name Reservation: $10 fee; holds your chosen name for 120 days before filing

• DBA (Doing Business As): $10 filing per county or city if you operate under a different name

• Amendments: $25 for changes such as LLC name, address, or management structure

• Certified copies or certificates of good standing: Optional, for banks or contracts (fees vary)

7. Comply with State and Local Licenses

Virginia doesn’t have a general statewide business license. However, depending on your business type and location, you may need additional licenses or permits.

Examples:

• Local business licenses from the city or county (e.g., Fairfax, Richmond, Norfolk)

• Industry-specific permits (health, food service, construction, etc.)

Check the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) for industry-specific requirements.

Summary

Forming an LLC in Virginia is both affordable and efficient. The total filing cost is $100, with an annual renewal of $50. By filing your Articles of Organization, appointing a registered agent, and securing an EIN, you’ll establish a compliant business foundation.

While not mandatory, creating an Operating Agreement strengthens your legal and operational framework—especially for multi-member LLCs. Finally, always stay current with your annual filings and local licensing obligations to maintain good standing with the Virginia State Corporation Commission.

For US small businesses seeking professional guidance, Counto’s accounting services in the US can help manage your LLC’s financial compliance, tax filing, and bookkeeping so you can focus on growth while we handle the numbers.

Modern Accounting That Finally Gets Your Business

Running a small business means wearing too many hats. Your accounting shouldn’t add to that burden. Yet traditional bookkeeping services keep asking the same questions month after month.

Counto delivers outsourced accounting that gets smarter over time. Our AI platform learns your unique business patterns and automatically handles daily transactions, while expert accountants ensure everything’s accurate. With direct WhatsApp access to your Customer Success Manager, you get enterprise-level financial management without the enterprise price tag.

Experience accounting that works as hard as you do. Our small business clients cut bookkeeping time by hours and never miss a tax deadline. Ready for accounting that understands your business? To get started, speak to us directly on our chatbot, email [email protected], or use our contact form.

Here are some articles you might find helpful:

Start LLC in Montana

Form LLC in Missouri

Start LLC in Mississippi

Register LLC in Minnesota

Michigan LLC formation guide