Forming an LLC in New Jersey

New Jersey charges $125 to form an LLC. Processing takes 5-7 business days standard, or about 24 hours with expedited ($50 extra). Here is the straightforward walkthrough — costs, steps, and what to keep in mind.

Cost Summary

• Articles of Organization: $125 (state filing fee)
• Annual report: $75/year, due on your formation anniversary month's last day
• Registered agent: Required — $99/year through us
• Expedited processing: $50 (optional)
• EIN: Free from IRS

Annual ongoing cost: $75 (report) + $99 (agent) = $174/year, assuming you use our service. NJ also has a $150 minimum assessment for LLCs taxed as corporations — check with your accountant.

Step 1: Pick a Name

Must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." and be distinguishable from other names on file. Search the NJ business records portal before committing.

Step 2: Designate a Registered Agent

NJ requires a registered agent with a physical address in the state. The business entity cannot serve as its own agent — that is explicitly not allowed in New Jersey. You need an individual (18+, NJ address) or a professional service.

Choosing yourself means your home address on the public record and you tied to that location during business hours. For $99/year, we provide our NJ address on your filings and handle document receipt and forwarding.

Step 3: File Articles of Organization

Submit to the NJ Secretary of State with the $125 fee. Include:

• LLC name
• Registered agent name and NJ address
• Principal office address
• Management structure
• Organizer information

File online at njportal.com for faster turnaround. Standard processing: 5-7 business days. Expedited ($50): approximately 24 hours.

Step 4: Write Your Operating Agreement

Not filed with the state, but banks want it and courts rely on it. Covers ownership percentages, profit distribution, management authority, and exit procedures. Without one, NJ default rules apply and those may not reflect your actual arrangement.

Step 5: Get an EIN

Apply at IRS.gov. Free. Instant. Necessary for bank accounts, hiring, and federal taxes. Do not pay a third party for this.

Step 6: Stay Compliant

After formation:

• Keep a registered agent on file at all times
• File the annual report by the last day of your formation anniversary month ($75)
• Separate business and personal finances
• Handle state and federal tax obligations

Skip the agent or the report and the state can dissolve your LLC. Liability protection disappears until you reinstate.

Why Registered Agent Service Matters

Your registered agent address is public from the moment you file. If that is your home, it is now searchable by anyone. You will receive process server visits at home, marketing mail, and data broker interest.

For $99/year, we replace your address with ours on the public record. Documents come to us, we scan them same-day, and your home stays private.

Begin Service — $99/yr