How Much Does It Cost to Register a Business in Hawaii?

If you’re considering starting a US small business in Hawaii, one of the first tasks on your checklist is to understand the cost to register a business in Hawaii. Whether you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or need other licenses, knowing the registration fees is essential for your financial planning. In this blog, we’ll break down the necessary costs for registering your business, and we’ll also touch on the importance of accounting services in Hawaii to help you stay compliant and organized.

1. Forming an LLC in Hawaii: An Affordable Option for US Small Businesses

Forming an LLC is a popular choice for small businesses due to its simplicity and lower fees. Here are the details on the cost to register an LLC in Hawaii:

• Articles of Organization Filing Fee:
  • $50: This is the main fee for filing your LLC’s Articles of Organization with the state.

• State Archive Preservation Fee:
  • $1: A small fee that goes toward preserving public records.

• Total Initial Filing Cost:
  • $51: This includes the filing fee and preservation fee.

• Annual Report Fee:
  • $12.50 (online filing)

  • $15 (mail filing)
    All LLCs must file an annual report to stay in compliance.

• Late Fee for Annual Report:
  • $10: If you file the report late, a small penalty is charged.

• Registered Agent:
  • No charge if you act as your own registered agent.

  • $125/year (if you hire a professional service).
    A registered agent is required for LLCs to maintain legal compliance, especially if you don’t have a Hawaii address.

Forming an LLC in Hawaii is an affordable and practical choice for many US small businesses, with a clear understanding of these fees.

2. Forming a Corporation in Hawaii: Key Costs for Your US Small Business

For businesses planning to raise capital or scale significantly, forming a corporation may be more suitable. Here are the registration costs for a corporation in Hawaii:

• Articles of Incorporation Filing Fee:
  • $25: The fee for filing the Articles of Incorporation with the state.

• Expedited Review (Optional):
  • $25: This fee allows for faster processing of your incorporation documents.

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• Annual Report Fee:
  • $5: This is required for domestic corporations to keep your business in good standing.

• Additional Fees:
  • These may apply for changes such as amendments, mergers, or name reservations.

Corporations come with additional responsibilities but also benefits like raising funds and limiting liability.

3. Other Fees and Permits Your US Small Business Might Need in Hawaii

Beyond business entity registration, you may need additional permits or licenses to legally operate in Hawaii. Here are the main fees to consider:

• General Excise Tax (GET) License:
  • $20: This one-time fee is required for most businesses selling goods or services in Hawaii.

• County or Municipal Permits:
  • Costs for permits can vary depending on your business type and location.

• Professional Licenses:
  • $75 to $160: Professional licenses for specific trades (e.g., healthcare, cosmetology) come with their own set of fees.

These additional costs ensure your business complies with local regulations and can operate smoothly in Hawaii.

Summary

The cost to register a business in Hawaii depends largely on the type of entity you form. LLCs come with a low initial cost of $51, while corporations require a slightly higher initial fee.

Also, other fees such as the General Excise Tax (GET) License and any professional or local licenses should be factored into your startup costs.

Understanding these fees is crucial as you plan your new business venture. It also helps if you partner with professionals for accounting services in Hawaii, ensuring your business remains compliant and properly structured.

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Here are some articles you might find helpful:

Steps to File Small Business Taxes

Setting Up Payroll for Your Business

Payroll Essentials for Startups