How to Register an LLC in Washington: Filing Guide

Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in Washington is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to state-specific filing rules and deadlines. This guide breaks down every step — from choosing a business name to submitting your annual report — to help you officially form and maintain your Washington LLC.

1. Choose an LLC Name

Your business name is the first step in forming an LLC. Washington has specific rules you’ll need to follow:

• Name Availability: Your LLC name must be unique and not already registered with the Washington Secretary of State. Use the Business Name Search Tool to check if your preferred name is available.

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

• Name Restrictions: Avoid terms that imply association with government agencies or require additional licensing (e.g., “bank,” “trust,” “insurance”).

• Name Reservation (Optional): If you want to reserve a name before filing, you can do so for 180 days by submitting a Name Reservation form and paying a $30 fee.

2. Appoint a Registered Agent

Washington requires every LLC to designate a registered agent who can receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your company.

• Requirements:

  • Must have a physical street address in Washington (no P.O. boxes).

  • Must be available during normal business hours.

• Who Can Be an Agent:

  • You can serve as your own registered agent.

  • You can appoint another individual (like a friend or family member).

  • Or you can hire a professional registered agent service.

Having a reliable registered agent ensures that your LLC stays compliant and promptly receives important legal notices.

3. File a Certificate of Formation

This is the official document that creates your LLC with the Washington Secretary of State.

• Where to File: Washington Secretary of State — Corporations and Charities Division.

• Filing Options and Fees:

  • Online: $200 (recommended for faster processing).

  • By Mail: $180.

• Information Required:

  • LLC name

  • Principal business address

  • Registered agent details

  • Duration of LLC (perpetual or specified)

  • Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)

Processing Time:

• Online filings are typically approved within 2–3 business days.

• Mail filings can take up to 2–3 weeks.

Once approved, you’ll receive a stamped Certificate of Formation confirming your LLC’s official registration.

 Your books should work as fast as you do. Get real-time insights, automated reports, and expert guidance—all in one place. Experience live accounting here.

4. File an Initial Report

Washington is one of the few states that requires an Initial Report at the time of formation.

• When to File: The Initial Report must be filed within 120 days after formation, but if you file online, it is included as part of your Certificate of Formation submission.

• Information Included:

  • Names and addresses of LLC members or managers

  • Nature of the business

  • Contact information for the registered agent

Note: This initial filing is different from the annual report, which must be submitted every year to keep your LLC in good standing.

5. Create an Operating Agreement

While Washington does not legally require an LLC Operating Agreement, creating one is strongly advised.

This internal document outlines:

• Ownership percentages of each member

• Management structure and responsibilities

• Voting rights and decision-making processes

• Distribution of profits and losses

• Procedures for adding or removing members

Even though it isn’t filed with the state, an operating agreement protects your LLC’s limited liability status and prevents disputes among members.

6. Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN is a federal tax identification number issued by the IRS. It’s essential for most LLCs.

• Why You Need It:

  • To open a business bank account

  • To hire employees

  • To file federal and state taxes

• How to Get It:

  • Apply for free on the IRS website.

  • Processing is immediate for online applications.

7. File an Annual Report

To keep your LLC active, you must submit an Annual Report to the Washington Secretary of State.

• Due Date: Annually, by the end of the month in which your LLC was originally formed.

• Filing Fee: $71

• Filing Options: Online or by mail.

Failure to file your annual report on time can result in late fees or administrative dissolution of your LLC.

Summary

Forming an LLC in Washington involves several key steps: selecting a compliant business name, designating a registered agent, filing a Certificate of Formation, submitting your initial report, and maintaining compliance through annual reports. While it may seem procedural, each step ensures your business is legally recognized and protected. By staying up to date with Washington’s filing requirements, your LLC can operate smoothly and maintain good standing year after year.

Your Books, Automated. Your Questions, Answered.

Manual bookkeeping eats into time you could spend growing your business. Traditional accounting services charge more but still need constant guidance. There’s a better way.

Counto’s modern accounting solution combines AI that learns your business with expert human oversight. Once our system understands your patterns, it handles daily bookkeeping automatically. Professional accountants review everything for accuracy, and you get instant access to your dedicated Customer Success Manager via SMS or phone—no more waiting for answers about your finances.

Join forward-thinking businesses who’ve upgraded to intelligent accounting that adapts to you, not the other way around. Ready for accounting that actually gets your business? Chat with us now, email [email protected], or use our contact form.

Here are some articles you might find helpful:

Start LLC in Massachusetts

Maryland LLC formation steps

Form LLC in Maine

Louisiana LLC filing guide

Start LLC in Kentucky