Start a North Dakota LLC with Form Wise
Forming a North Dakota LLC is a key step toward protecting your personal assets while taking advantage of North Dakota’s business-friendly environment. With a low cost of living, a strong agricultural and energy sector, and streamlined business regulations, North Dakota is an ideal location for entrepreneurs. Form Wise is here to help you launch your North Dakota business the right way.
What Is a North Dakota LLC?
A North Dakota LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a business structure that offers liability protection for its owners (called members) while maintaining flexibility in taxation and management. Starting an LLC in North Dakota allows business owners to separate their personal and business finances while avoiding the double taxation common to corporations.
How to Start a North Dakota LLC
To officially form your North Dakota LLC and maintain compliance with state regulations, follow these essential steps.
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your North Dakota LLC
The name of your North Dakota LLC must be distinguishable from other business entities registered in North Dakota and must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
Apply now, pick a name and we will verify the availability!
Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent in North Dakota
A registered agent for your North Dakota LLC is required to accept legal and official documents on behalf of your business. The registered agent must have a physical address in North Dakota and be available during normal business hours. You can serve as your own registered agent or designate another individual or service that meets North Dakota’s requirements.
Get in touch with us and we will refer a Registered Agent!
Step 3: File Articles of Organization with the North Dakota Secretary of State
You must file your Articles of Organization through the North Dakota FirstStop Portal to officially create your North Dakota LLC. North Dakota requires online submission of formation documents—paper filings are not accepted.
You can file for a domestic LLC with Form Wise!
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement for Your North Dakota LLC
Although not required by law, it is highly recommended that your North Dakota LLC have an operating agreement. This internal document outlines how the LLC will operate, the responsibilities of each member, and how decisions will be made. Having a North Dakota LLC operating agreement helps avoid disputes and reinforces your business’s legitimacy.
Contact us if you need help with your Operating Agreement
Step 5: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Your North Dakota LLC will need an EIN from the IRS if you plan to hire employees, open a business bank account, or file federal taxes.
Start processing your EIN online now!
Step 6: Fulfill North Dakota LLC Tax and Regulatory Obligations
Depending on your industry and business model, your North Dakota LLC may be subject to state tax filings and additional regulatory requirements.
- Sales and Use Tax: If your North Dakota LLC sells taxable goods or services, you may need a seller’s permit. Register with the North Dakota Office of State Tax Commissioner.
- State Business Licenses: While North Dakota does not require a general business license at the state level, certain professions and industries do. Check with the North Dakota New Business Registration site to determine if your North Dakota LLC needs any specific permits or licenses.
- Annual Report: North Dakota LLCs must file an annual report by November 15 each year. You can submit your report online using the North Dakota FirstStop Portal.
Need help with your Annual Filings and Reporting?
Why Start a North Dakota LLC?
Starting an LLC in North Dakota gives your business several advantages:
- Limited personal liability for business debts and lawsuits
- Flexible tax treatment and simple pass-through taxation
- Minimal state filing requirements and paperwork
- Strong support for small businesses and rural development in North Dakota
- Enhanced credibility with customers and partners when operating as a North Dakota LLC
Maintain Your North Dakota LLC
After forming your North Dakota LLC, maintaining compliance is essential to keeping your business in good standing:
- File your annual report by the November 15 deadline through the North Dakota FirstStop Portal
- Renew any business licenses or permits your North Dakota LLC may need
- Keep your registered agent information current
- Maintain internal documentation like meeting notes and an updated operating agreement
Start Your North Dakota LLC Today with Form Wise
Form Wise makes it easy to start and manage your North Dakota LLC. Whether you’re launching your first business or expanding into North Dakota, we provide the tools and support to guide you through every step of the process. Form your North Dakota LLC with confidence and grow your business with a trusted partner.
