How to Start an LLC in Georgia

Georgia LLCs file Articles of Organization and an annual registration. Step-by-step Georgia LLC formation guide with costs and timelines.

To start an LLC in Georgia, you file Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State, pay a filing fee of approximately $100, and receive approval in about five to seven business days. Georgia also requires an annual registration each year, so plan for a small recurring cost.

Here is the direct answer: Georgia LLC formation costs about $100 for the Articles of Organization filing fee and typically takes five to seven business days to process. Fees change frequently, so confirm the current amount on the Georgia Secretary of State website before you file. The steps below cover the full process from name search to your first annual registration.

Check Name Availability in Georgia

Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other names on file with the Georgia Secretary of State. Use the Corporations Division business search to check availability before you file. The name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or an approved abbreviation. You can reserve a name for 30 days for a small fee if you are not ready to file yet. If your first choice is taken, try a slight variation or add a geographic qualifier, as long as the result is still distinguishable from existing names.

Appoint a Georgia Registered Agent

Every Georgia LLC must maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in Georgia. The agent accepts service of process and official mail on your behalf during business hours. You can serve as your own registered agent, or use a commercial registered agent service. Because the agent's address is public record, many owners prefer a commercial service. Read our guide to what a registered agent does for more detail.

File Georgia Articles of Organization

File your Articles of Organization online through the Georgia Corporations Division or by mail. You will provide the LLC name, registered agent information, management structure, and the name and address of at least one organizer. Online filing is faster and gives you immediate confirmation. Georgia does not require you to state a specific business purpose. You can also file by mail, but online filing through the Corporations Division is faster and lets you pay by credit card.

Georgia LLC Fees and Processing Time

The state filing fee is approximately $100, and online filings are typically processed in five to seven business days. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee if you need approval sooner. Mail filings take longer, often two to three weeks. For a full comparison of formation costs across states, see our guide to how much an LLC costs.

Post-Formation Steps for Your Georgia LLC

Once approved, apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. It is free and takes about ten minutes online. You will need it to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file federal taxes. See our step-by-step guide on how to get an EIN for your LLC.

Next, draft an operating agreement, register with the Georgia Tax Center if you owe sales tax, and open a dedicated business bank account. Georgia has a state income tax, so your LLC's profits may be subject to state tax at the owner level.

Georgia Annual Registration

Every Georgia LLC must file an annual registration by April 1 each year. The fee is approximately $50, and you file online through the Georgia Secretary of State website. Late filings incur additional fees, and the state can administratively dissolve your LLC for failing to file. In 2026, the annual registration fee remains approximately $50, so budget for it each spring. The state sends a reminder before the deadline, but do not rely on it — mark April 1 on your calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Georgia?

Filing Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State costs approximately $100. Georgia also charges an annual registration fee of about $50, due by April 1 each year. Fees change frequently, so confirm the current amounts on the Georgia Secretary of State website before you file.

How long does it take to get an LLC in Georgia?

The Georgia Secretary of State typically processes Articles of Organization in five to seven business days. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee. Confirm current processing times on the Georgia Secretary of State website before you submit your filing.

When is the Georgia annual registration due?

The annual registration is due by April 1 each year. The fee is approximately $50, and you file online through the Georgia Secretary of State website. Late filings incur additional fees, and the state can administratively dissolve your LLC for failing to file.

Does Georgia require a registered agent?

Yes. Every Georgia LLC must maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in Georgia. The agent accepts service of process and official mail during business hours. You can serve as your own agent or use a commercial registered agent service.