How to Register an LLC in Nebraska: Filing Process Explained
Starting an LLC in Nebraska is one of the smartest ways to protect your personal assets while running a business. The state offers a straightforward process, affordable filing fees, and minimal reporting requirements. However, it’s important to follow each step carefully—especially since Nebraska has a unique publication requirement that most other states don’t.
This guide breaks down each stage of forming your Nebraska LLC, from choosing a business name to filing biennial reports. You’ll also learn how professional accounting services, like Counto, can simplify compliance and help your business stay organized from day one.
1. Choose an LLC Name
Your LLC name is the first impression of your business, and Nebraska has specific rules to ensure clarity and uniqueness.
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The name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Ltd. Co.”
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It must be distinguishable from all other entities registered with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
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You can use the Nebraska Business Entity Search tool to check availability.
If you’ve already decided on a name but aren’t ready to file your LLC yet, you can reserve it for 120 days by submitting an Application for Reservation of Name with a $30 fee.
Pro Tip: Avoid names too similar to existing businesses to prevent rejection or delays during filing.
2. Select a Registered Agent
Nebraska law requires every LLC to appoint a registered agent—a person or company responsible for receiving legal notices, state correspondence, and service of process on behalf of your business.
Your registered agent must:
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Have a physical street address in Nebraska (P.O. Boxes are not allowed).
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Be available during regular business hours.
You can serve as your own agent, but most business owners prefer hiring a professional service to maintain privacy and ensure reliability. The agent’s information becomes part of the public record, so using a third-party service can help protect your home address.
Having an experienced registered agent also ensures that no important compliance documents are missed—a crucial factor in maintaining your LLC’s good standing.
3. File a Certificate of Organization
This is the key document that officially establishes your LLC with the state of Nebraska.
You can file either online or by mail with the Secretary of State:
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Online filing fee: $110
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Mail filing fee: $100
Your Certificate of Organization must include:
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The official LLC name and principal office address
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Registered agent’s name and address
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Names and addresses of organizers
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The effective date of formation
Once approved, your LLC becomes a legally recognized business entity in Nebraska, capable of owning property, signing contracts, and conducting business.
Processing Time: Online filings are usually processed faster (within a few business days) compared to mailed applications.
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4. Publish a Notice of LLC Formation
Nebraska is one of the few states that still requires publication of notice for new LLCs. This step helps ensure public transparency about new business entities operating in the state.
Here’s how it works:
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Publish a Notice of Organization in a local newspaper where your LLC’s principal office is located.
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The notice must appear for three consecutive weeks.
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After publication, obtain an Affidavit of Publication from the newspaper and submit it to the Secretary of State.
Skipping this step can result in your LLC not being fully recognized by the state, so it’s crucial to complete it promptly.
5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Once your LLC is formed, the next step is to apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number), sometimes referred to as a Federal Tax ID.
An EIN is required for:
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Filing federal and state taxes
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Hiring employees
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Opening a business bank account
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Applying for business loans or permits
You can obtain an EIN for free through the IRS website. The process takes only a few minutes and provides instant confirmation.
If you’re a non-US resident or do not have a Social Security Number, you can still apply by submitting IRS Form SS-4 via fax or mail.
6. File a Biennial Report
To keep your Nebraska LLC active, you’ll need to file a Biennial Report every two years in odd-numbered years (e.g., 2025, 2027).
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Filing period: January 1 – April 1 of the reporting year.
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Filing fee: $10.
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Reports are submitted to the Nebraska Secretary of State.
This filing ensures the state’s business records stay current with your LLC’s contact and ownership information. Failing to file on time can lead to administrative dissolution.
How Accounting Services Can Help Your Nebraska LLC
While the process of forming an LLC in Nebraska is manageable, ongoing compliance and financial management can be challenging as your business grows. That’s where Counto can make a big difference.
Here’s how accounting experts can help:
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Monitor filing deadlines for biennial reports and state compliance updates.
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Organize and maintain accurate financial records to simplify taxes and audits.
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Provide expert tax planning to help your business stay compliant and minimize liabilities.
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Advise on growth strategies, payroll, and bookkeeping—especially as your operations expand.
Counto blends automation with real accountants to help Nebraska business owners stay compliant, efficient, and confident about their finances.
Summary Table of Nebraska LLC Formation Fees
Step | Fee | Notes |
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Name Reservation | $30 (optional) | Holds name for 120 days |
Certificate of Organization | $100 (mail) / $110 (online) | Required to legally form LLC |
Publication of LLC Notice | Varies by location | Mandatory, cost depends on newspaper |
Biennial Report | $10 | Filed every 2 years in odd-numbered years |
Registered Agent Service | Varies | Must have Nebraska address |
EIN | Free (IRS) | Required for tax and banking purposes |
Summary
Forming an LLC in Nebraska is a simple and affordable process with only a few unique steps, like the newspaper publication requirement. Once you’ve registered your name, appointed a registered agent, filed your formation documents, and completed the publication, your business will be officially recognized by the state.
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