Articles of Organization: What They Are and What They Include

The Articles of Organization is the official document that creates your LLC. Once filed and approved by the state, your LLC legally exists.

What Are Articles of Organization?

Articles of Organization is the formation document filed with your state to create an LLC. It's a public record that establishes your LLC's basic information.

Think of Articles of Organization as your LLC's birth certificate. It doesn't detail how the business operates day-to-day (that's the Operating Agreement's job), but it officially brings your LLC into existence.

Required Information

While exact requirements vary by state, most Articles of Organization include:

LLC Name

Your official business name, which must include a designation like "LLC," "L.L.C.," or "Limited Liability Company." The name must be distinguishable from other registered businesses in your state.

Principal Business Address

The main address where your business operates. This can be your home address, office, or a virtual office address in most states.

Registered Agent Information

The name and physical street address (no PO boxes) of the person or company designated to receive legal documents. The registered agent must be located in your formation state.

Purpose Statement

Most states accept general language like "any lawful business purpose" or "any lawful act or activity." You don't need to describe your specific business activities.

Management Structure

Whether your LLC is member-managed (all owners participate in management) or manager-managed (designated managers run the business).

Organizer Information

The person filing the Articles. This can be you, a partner, or a formation service. The organizer doesn't need to be a member of the LLC.

Effective Date

When you want the LLC to officially exist. Most filings take effect immediately upon approval, but you can specify a future date in some states.

Duration

Most LLCs are formed with perpetual duration, meaning they exist until dissolved. Some states allow you to specify an end date.

Filing Process

The filing process is straightforward:

1. Check name availability using your state's business database
2. Gather required information (LLC name, address, registered agent)
3. Complete the form online or on paper
4. Pay the filing fee (included with StartGlobal formation)
5. Submit and wait for approval

Processing times vary significantly:

• Fast states: Wyoming, Delaware (1-3 days)
• Average states: Most states (1-2 weeks)
• Slow states: California, New York (2-4 weeks)

After Filing

Once your Articles are approved, you'll receive:

• Filed/stamped Articles: Your official formation document with state approval
• File number: Your LLC's unique identifier with the state
• Certificate (some states): A formal certificate of formation

Keep these documents safe. You'll need them to:

• Open a business bank account
• Apply for an EIN
• Register in other states (if needed)
• Prove your LLC's existence to clients and partners

Amending Your Articles

Need to change something? File an Articles of Amendment with your state. Common reasons to amend:

• Changing your LLC name
• Changing your registered agent or address
• Changing management structure (member to manager-managed)
• Adding provisions not in the original filing

Amendment fees vary by state. Some changes (like registered agent updates) may use a separate form.

Frequently Asked Questions