Starting a business in Connecticut means navigating the registration process with various government agencies. If you are planning to start a Limited Liability Company, you will need to file the Connecticut LLC Certificate of Organization (referred to as the Articles of Organization in some states) with the Connecticut Secretary of State.
The Certificate of Organization is a legal document that officially launches your new LLC into existence. It can be filed by creating an account and filing on the Connecticut Secretary of the State’s website or downloading the Certificate of Organization form.
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Steps To Fill Out The Connecticut Certificate Of Organization
Step 1: Choosing the Business Type
In the first step, we are asked to choose between a domestic or foreign LLC.
The domestic LLC is the most common choice and refers to an LLC that is based in the state. A foreign LLC, on the other hand, was originally formed in another state but wants to physically do business in Connecticut.
Step 2: Select the Legal Structure
Next, we will choose the type of business entity we are forming. In this guide, I’m working on starting a Connecticut LLC.
Step 3: Pick a Name for the LLC
The first screen asks whether a fee was paid to reserve a business name. Reserving a name is optional and not very common.
Next, we are asked what name we would like to use for the LLC. The name of the LLC must be distinguishable from all other active business names on record with the Connecticut Secretary of the State. If you haven’t verified the name already, be sure to do a Connecticut LLC name search to make sure the name is available before filing.
In addition to the name being unique, the name must include a business entity designator. Allowed entity designators include:
– Limited Liability Company
– Limited Liability Co.
– Ltd. Liability Company
– Ltd. Liability Co.
– LLC
– L.L.C.
Step 4: Enter the Business Email Address
A business email is requested for the Secretary of State to send communications. I would recommend using one that you check often, as they will send a reminder for the Connecticut LLC annual report filing.
Step 5: Choose a NAICS Code
A NAICS code (North American Industrial Classification System) is a system that identifies businesses operating in a given industry.
Search by entering what your business will do to get your six-digit code. If you aren’t sure, find the closest business activity. If your business is doing several things, pick the activity that you either expect to drive the most sales or spend the most time on.
Step 6: Fill out the Business Survey
This next section is optional and asks questions such as whether the business is woman-owned, minority-owned, etc.
Step 7: Enter the Principal Office Address
In this section, enter the principal office address in Connecticut (A PO Box isn’t allowed). This can be the business’s physical address or the address where business records are stored.
Next, if you have a different address for mailing, enter it in this section. Unlike the principal office, the mailing address can be a PO Box located outside of the state.
Step 8: Appoint a Connecticut Registered Agent
A Connecticut registered agent (called a statutory agent in some states) is a party that is authorized to receive and accept service of process on behalf of your LLC.
A registered agent must have a physical presence in the state and be at an address during normal business hours.
An individual, such as the business owner, accountant, or family member, can be the registered agent, or you may authorize a registered agent service to act as the registered agent.
The registered agent must accept a text or email from the Secretary of State confirming they agree to be the registered agent.
Step 9: Enter the LLC’s Principles
In the LLC Certificate of Organization, you will need to include contact information with the names and mailing addresses of the LLC’s principals. A principal is a member or manager with the authority to act on behalf of an LLC.
In the Title section, there are some definitions to be aware of:
– A Member has an ownership interest in the LLC.
– A Manager is someone the LLC Members hired to run the LLC, similar to a CEO of a corporation.
At least one LLC member or manager must be added.
Step 10: Upload Additional Documentation
This next section is optional and is where you would upload any additional information regarding the LLC.
Step 11: Review
As we get to the end of filing the Connecticut LLC Certificate of Organization, you will next review the information that was provided to ensure it is correct.
Step 12: Sign and File the Certificate of Organization
In the last step, you will pay to form the LLC and submit the Certificate of Organization to the Connecticut Secretary of State!
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Connecticut LLC FAQs
How much does a Connecticut LLC cost?
There is a $120 state filing fee paid to the Secretary of State to start an LLC in Connecticut.
How long does it take to form a Connecticut LLC?
The state normally approves the LLC paperwork in 2-3 days for online filings and 7-10 business days for filings sent by mail.
Does Connecticut require an LLC to have an operating agreement?
Connecticut Revised Statute § 34-243d states that an LLC Operating Agreement is optional. Although it isn’t required, it is recommended that most LLCs have one, as it can help prevent disputes among members and better protect the LLC’s legal status.