How to Start an LLC in New York

New York LLCs must publish formation notices in local newspapers and file Articles of Organization with the Department of State. Complete NY guide.

To start an LLC in New York, you file Articles of Organization with the New York Department of State, pay a filing fee of approximately $200, and publish a formation notice in two local newspapers. The publication requirement is unique to New York and adds both time and cost to the process.

Here is the direct answer: New York LLC formation costs about $200 for the Articles of Organization filing fee, plus newspaper publication costs that can run several hundred dollars depending on your county, and processing typically takes two to three weeks. Fees change frequently, so confirm the current amounts on the New York Department of State website before you file.

Check Name Availability in New York

Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other names on file with the New York Department of State. Search the Department of State's name database before you file. The name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or an approved abbreviation. You can reserve a name for 60 days for a small fee if you are not ready to file yet. If your first choice is taken, a slight variation or a geographic qualifier can work, as long as the final name remains distinguishable.

Appoint a New York Registered Agent

Every New York LLC must designate a registered agent with a physical street address in New York. The agent accepts service of process and official mail on your behalf. You can serve as your own agent, or use a commercial registered agent service. Because the agent's address is public record, many owners choose a commercial service. Learn more in our guide to what a registered agent does.

File Articles of Organization with the Department of State

File your Articles of Organization online or by mail with the New York Department of State. You will provide the LLC name, the county where the office is located, and the address where the Department of State will mail documents. Online filing is faster and gives you immediate confirmation. Mail filings take longer, so plan accordingly.

Publish Your Formation Notice

Within 120 days of formation, you must publish a notice in two newspapers: one in the county where your LLC's office is located and one in the city or town. After publication, file the Certificate of Publication with the Department of State within 120 days of completing publication, along with a fee of approximately $50. Publication costs vary by county and can run several hundred dollars. The newspapers will provide affidavits of publication, which you attach to your Certificate of Publication filing.

Post-Formation Steps for New York LLCs

After your LLC is 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 guide on how to get an EIN for your LLC.

Draft an operating agreement, register with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance if you owe sales tax, and open a dedicated business bank account. Keep copies of your publication affidavits and the Certificate of Publication with your business records, since you may need them later.

Ongoing Requirements for New York LLCs

New York does not require an annual report, but every LLC must file a biennial statement every two years. The fee is approximately $9 when filed online, and the statement confirms your registered agent and office address. As of 2026, the biennial statement fee remains approximately $9. For a full comparison of formation costs across states, see our guide to how much an LLC costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start an LLC in New York?

Filing Articles of Organization with the New York Department of State costs approximately $200. You will also pay newspaper publication costs, which vary by county and can run several hundred dollars, plus a $50 fee to file the Certificate of Publication. Fees change frequently, so confirm current amounts on the New York Department of State website.

How long does it take to get an LLC in New York?

The Department of State typically processes Articles of Organization in two to three weeks. The newspaper publication requirement adds time, and you must file the Certificate of Publication within 120 days of completing publication. Confirm current processing times on the New York Department of State website.

Does every New York LLC have to publish a notice in newspapers?

Yes. New York is one of the few states that requires LLCs to publish a formation notice in two newspapers: one in the county where the LLC's office is located and one in the city or town. You must then file a Certificate of Publication with the Department of State within 120 days.

Does New York require an annual report for LLCs?

New York does not require an annual report, but LLCs must file a biennial statement every two years. The fee is approximately $9 when filed online. The statement confirms your registered agent and office address and is due in the LLC's anniversary month.