The state of Montana offers a surprisingly streamlined process for starting an LLC. If you are starting a new business or you are converting a sole proprietorship to an LLC, Montana makes the process easy. Expect to spend a few days on the process, and then to wait for your forms and requests to be processed. While every business is different and processing times can vary, you can usually complete the process swiftly and get your Montana LLC up and running. Montana is particularly business friendly and creates an ideal tax situation for those with vehicle purchases.
Here’s how to streamline the Montana LLC process:
Your Montana LLC will need a company name; this can be another form of the name you are using or something entirely new. Choose wisely, though, because this is how the state will identify your business and you’ll have to legally change it later if you change your mind. Your name needs to comply with all Montana state LLC naming guidelines and must include either the abbreviation LLC or the words “Limited Liability Company” in the name. You can let us know what company names you are interested, and we can check to make sure they are available to register with the Montana Secretary of State’s office.
In addition to these naming requirements, you can’t use words that suggest your LLC is a government body or agency (you can’t call your LLC something like “the FBI” or “Montana Department of Transportation”). You also need to avoid using words like “Attorney”, “Doctor”, “Bank”, or “Insurance” unless you are legally licensed to use them. Take some time choosing your name so you end up with something you can easily remember.
Select a Registered Agent
Most states, including Montana, require an LLC to have a registered agent on file. This person or entity is the one who will be responsible for accepting legal documents and will become your state’s contact point with your business. The agent you choose is flexible; if you live in Montana, you can fulfill this role yourself, you can use an employee, or you can contract with a registered agent service to fulfill this requirement. If you don’t live in Montana, you’ll need an in-state entity or person to perform this task for your operation.
File your Articles of Organization
This paperwork is required by the state, and you’ll need both your name and registered agent details to complete this step. Once you file, your application will be reviewed and your LLC will be approved – or you will receive instructions about what you need to do to gain approval. We email a copy of the filing to you to keep in your files.
Apply for an EIN
If you don’t already have one, now is the time to apply for an Employer Identification Number; this is similar to a personal social security number, but for your new business. You’ll need this to file your taxes, to open business bank accounts, and for other legal requirements and activities. You can request one free from the IRS here.
The amount of time it takes to complete the application process for an LLC in Montana depends on both you and the Secretary of State’s processing office. You will need to spend time selecting your name, completing paperwork and applying. Once these are done, your application needs to be processed – and the wait time will depend on how busy the office is, what time of year it is and how many applications are ahead of you. We can have your Montana LLC filed within a few business hours of getting your order using the Montana Secretary of State’s office priority filing option. Otherwise, it can take up to two weeks. Get in touch with our team today to minimize the time your application takes and to make the most of an LLC based in this state.