How to start a business in Washington State

Intro

Recently, I started a new chapter in my career as a business owner, aka founder. In this post, I'd like to share my experience of how I opened a business in WA State. If you're planning to start a business in Washington State, forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) can be a great choice for you. LLCs offer many benefits, including limited liability protection, flexible management structure, and pass-through taxation. Here are the steps you need to follow to open an LLC in Washington:

Step by step Guide

Choose a name for your LLC: The name you choose for your LLC must be unique and not already in use by another company in Washington State. You can check the availability of your chosen name by searching the Washington State Secretary of State website.
Appoint a registered agent: Every LLC in Washington State must have a registered agent. A registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents and other important correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can choose a registered agent from a registered agent service or appoint an individual or entity to act as your registered agent.
File Articles of Organization: To form an LLC in Washington State, you need to file Articles of Organization with the Washington State Secretary of State. The articles must include basic information about your LLC, such as its name, registered agent, and the name and address of its members.
Create an Operating Agreement: Although Washington State law does not require an LLC to have an operating agreement, it is a good idea to have one in place. An operating agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership structure, management structure, and operating procedures of your LLC.
Obtain an EIN: An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) assigns to businesses for tax purposes. You can obtain an EIN for your LLC by applying online with the IRS.
Obtain any necessary licenses and permits: Depending on the type of business you are operating, you may need to obtain licenses or permits from local, state, or federal agencies. You can check the requirements for your specific business by visiting the Washington State Business Licensing Service website.

By following these steps, you can successfully open an LLC in Washington State. It is important to consult with a business attorney or accountant to ensure that you are complying with all legal and tax requirements. Once your LLC is formed, you can focus on growing your business and achieving your goals.

In next posts I'll share a bit more about company and what we are doing. So keep in touch ;)

Happy opening your business in WA State! ✌🏼