How to Register an LLC in Washington, DC: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting a business in Washington DC comes with the added benefit of being at the heart of the nation’s economic and political center. If you’re a small business owner looking to establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the District, this guide walks you through each step — from choosing your business name to obtaining your licenses — based on official DC government filing requirements.

1. Choose a Name for Your LLC

Before you can register your business, your LLC name must meet Washington DC’s naming rules.

• The name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”

• It must be unique and not easily confused with existing businesses in DC.

• Use the DC Business Name Search tool on the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) website to confirm name availability.

• You can reserve a name for 120 days by filing a Name Reservation application and paying a $50 fee (optional but helpful if you’re still preparing your documents).

2. Appoint a Registered Agent

Every LLC in DC is required to designate a registered agent who will receive official notices, legal correspondence, and government mail on behalf of your company.

• The agent must have a physical street address in DC — not a P.O. box.

• This can be you, a trusted individual, or a professional registered agent service.

• If you prefer privacy, a professional agent can use their own address for filings, which keeps your personal address off public records.

3. File Your Articles of Organization

This is the document that officially creates your LLC. File it with the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) either online or by mail.

• Filing Fee: $99 (one-time payment).

• Processing Time: Around 3–5 business days for online submissions.

• The Articles of Organization must include:

  • Your LLC’s official name

  • Principal office address

  • Registered agent’s name and address

  • Management structure (member- or manager-managed)

  • Organizer’s name and signature

Once approved, your LLC is legally recognized in the District of Columbia.

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4. Draft an Operating Agreement

Although not legally required, an Operating Agreement is an essential internal document for all LLCs.

It outlines how your business operates, including:

• Member roles and voting rights

• Ownership percentages

• Distribution of profits and losses

• Rules for adding or removing members

Even single-member LLCs benefit from having this agreement since it helps preserve your limited liability protection and serves as proof that your business is separate from your personal affairs.

5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is issued by the IRS and is used to identify your business for tax purposes.

• Apply online at irs.gov — it’s free and immediate upon submission.

• You’ll need your EIN to:

  • Open a business bank account

  • File taxes

  • Hire employees

  • Apply for certain business licenses

6. Register with the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR)

All Washington DC LLCs must register with the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) for local business taxes.

• Registration is done online through MyTax.DC.gov.

• You’ll receive a Notice of Business Tax Registration, which confirms your business tax account setup.

• Keep this document, as you’ll need it when applying for licenses and permits later.

7. Secure a Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit

To legally operate your LLC, you’ll need either:

• A Certificate of Occupancy (for businesses operating from commercial spaces), or

• A Home Occupation Permit (HOP) (for home-based businesses).

Apply through the DLCP website. Fees vary depending on the property type and location.

8. Obtain a Basic Business License (BBL)

The Basic Business License (BBL) is required for nearly all businesses in Washington DC.

Before applying, make sure you have the following:

• Approved Articles of Organization

• Your EIN from the IRS

• Business Tax Registration notice from the OTR

• Either your Certificate of Occupancy or Home Occupation Permit

9. File Your Biennial Report

DC requires all LLCs to submit a Biennial Report every two years to maintain good standing.

• Filing fee: $300

• Due: April 1 of every odd-numbered year

• Filing is done online through the DLCP website.

Failure to file can lead to penalties or administrative dissolution of your LLC.

How Accounting Services Like Counto Can Help

Running an LLC in Washington DC involves more than registration — maintaining compliance, paying taxes, and tracking expenses are just as important. That’s where Counto’s accounting services in the US come in.

Counto helps US small businesses streamline bookkeeping, manage local tax filings, and stay compliant with DC’s unique business requirements. With expert accountants and smart automation, Counto ensures your LLC stays financially organized and ready for growth — so you can focus on building your business, not your paperwork.

Summary

Forming an LLC in Washington DC involves several clear steps — from choosing your name and appointing a registered agent to filing your Articles of Organization and securing a Basic Business License. While the process can seem detailed, each step ensures that your business operates legally and with full protection under DC law. By handling taxes, licenses, and compliance correctly, your LLC will be well-positioned for long-term success in one of the most dynamic business environments in the country.

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