How to Start an
LLC in Georgia
Georgia is one of the cheapest and fastest states to form an LLC — no publication requirement, just $100 online at ecorp.sos.ga.gov. Here’s how to do it right and avoid costly dissolution.
The Short Version
To start an LLC in Georgia, file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State at ecorp.sos.ga.gov, pay the $100 online fee ($110 by mail), appoint a registered agent with a Georgia street address, and get an EIN from the IRS. No newspaper publication is required. You must file a $50 Annual Registration each year Jan 1 – Apr 1.
How to Form Your Georgia LLC in 7 Steps
Choose a Name That Meets Georgia Rules
Must include “LLC”, “L.L.C.” or “Limited Liability Company” and be distinguishable on GA Corporations Division search. No restricted words like Bank without approval. Optional reservation: $25 for 30 days at ecorp.sos.ga.gov.
Appoint a Registered Agent in Georgia
Every GA LLC needs an agent with a physical GA street address (not PO Box) available 9-5 to receive service of process. Can be you, but your address becomes public. Using a service ($0-$49/yr) keeps privacy.
File Articles of Organization with GA Secretary of State
This is what creates your LLC. File online at ecorp.sos.ga.gov — the official portal.
Create an Operating Agreement (Recommended)
Georgia does not legally require it, but banks, courts, and partners will ask. Defines ownership %, voting, profit split, dissolution.
Get Your EIN from the IRS
Free at IRS.gov — 15 minutes online. Needed for bank account, hiring, and GA Tax Center registration.
File Your Annual Registration
Every year Jan 1 – Apr 1. $50 online at ecorp.sos.ga.gov. Miss April 1 = $25 late fee. Fail 2 years = administratively dissolved.
Handle Georgia Tax & License Requirements
Register for sales tax if selling goods via Georgia Tax Center. Get city/county business license. Separate business bank account to preserve liability.
Best LLC Services for Georgia
Free LLC formation + 1 year registered agent. You only pay the $100 GA state fee. Perfect for bootstrapped founders filing via ecorp.sos.ga.gov.
Visit Bizee →Attorney-backed operating agreements and ongoing compliance alerts so you never miss Georgia’s $50 annual registration deadline.
Visit LegalZoom →Built for startups and non-US residents. Handles Articles, EIN, bank account setup and keeps you compliant with GA Secretary of State.
Visit Doola →Same-day filing prep and private registered agent address. Fastest route to get your Georgia LLC approved without exposing your home address.
Visit Business Rocket →Georgia LLC Costs — Complete Breakdown
After Formation Checklist
- ✓ Open business bank account with EIN + Articles (Mercury, Relay, or local bank)
- ✓ File Beneficial Ownership Report (BOI) to FinCEN within 90 days — free at fincen.gov
- ✓ Register for Georgia sales tax if selling goods — via Georgia Tax Center
- ✓ Get city/county business license — Atlanta, Savannah, etc. vary by location
- ✓ Set reminder: $50 Annual Registration Jan 1 – Apr 1 at ecorp.sos.ga.gov