How Long Does It Take to Get an LLC?
LLC processing times by state - from same-day to 6+ weeks
Processing Times
The time it takes to form an LLC varies significantly by state and filing method. Online filings are typically processed much faster than mail filings. Here is what you can expect:
1-3 Days
Fastest States
Online filing
5-10 Days
Average
Most states
4-6 Weeks
Slowest States
Mail filing
Processing Times by State
| State | Online Filing | Mail Filing |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Immediately | 1-2 business days |
| Alaska | Immediately | 10-15 business days |
| Arizona | 14-16 days | 14-16 days |
| Arkansas | 3-7 days | 2-3 weeks |
| California | 2-3 days | 4-5 days |
| Colorado | Immediately | No mail filings |
| Connecticut | 2-3 days | 7-10 days |
| Delaware | 10 days | 10 days |
| Florida | 5 days | 12 days |
| Georgia | 7-10 days | 15 days |
| Hawaii | 10-15 days | 10-15 days |
| Idaho | 5-7 days | 5-7 days |
| Illinois | 5-10 days | 7-14 days |
| Indiana | 1 day | 5 days |
| Iowa | 1 day | 7-10 days |
| Kansas | Immediately | 2-3 days |
| Kentucky | Immediately | 1 day |
| Louisiana | 3-5 days | 3-5 days |
| Maine | No online | 10-15 days |
| Maryland | 2 weeks | 5-8 weeks |
| Massachusetts | 1-2 days | 1-2 days |
| Michigan | 7-10 days | 10 days |
| Minnesota | Immediately | 11-12 days |
| Mississippi | 1-2 days | No mail |
| Missouri | Immediately | 3-4 weeks |
| Montana | 5-6 days | No mail |
| Nebraska | 2-3 days | 2-3 days |
| Nevada | 1 day | 3-4 weeks |
| New Hampshire | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| New Jersey | 1 day | 5-7 days |
| New Mexico | 1-3 days | 15-20 days |
| New York | Immediately | 2-3 weeks |
| North Carolina | 2-5 days | 2-5 days |
| North Dakota | 5 days | 5 days |
| Ohio | 1 day | 1 day |
| Oklahoma | 2-3 days | 5-7 days |
| Oregon | 2-3 days | 4-6 weeks |
| Pennsylvania | 5-7 days | 5-7 days |
| Rhode Island | 3-4 days | 3-4 days |
| South Carolina | 1-2 days | 3-4 days |
| South Dakota | Immediately | 1-2 days |
| Tennessee | Immediately | 3-5 days |
| Texas | 13-15 days | 4-8 weeks |
| Utah | Immediately | 3-4 days |
| Vermont | 1 day | 5-7 days |
| Virginia | 2-5 days | 2-5 days |
| Washington | 5 days | 3-4 weeks |
| West Virginia | 5-10 days | 5-10 days |
| Wisconsin | Immediately | 5 days |
| Wyoming | Immediately | 10-15 days |
How to Speed Up the Process
1. File Online
Almost every state processes online filings faster than mail. Some states approve online filings immediately or within 24 hours.
2. Pay for Expedited Processing
Many states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. This can reduce processing time from weeks to days or even hours.
3. Have Your Documents Ready
Make sure everything is filled out correctly before filing. Errors or omissions will cause delays and may require re-filing.
4. Use a Professional Service
Professional formation services know the process and can help avoid mistakes that cause delays.
What Happens After Filing?
Once your LLC is approved, you will receive:
- Certificate of Formation (or Articles of Organization approval)
- Stamped and approved filing documents from the state
- Your LLC is officially registered with the Secretary of State
You can then proceed to get your EIN from the IRS, open a business bank account, and start operating your business.
ExpeditedExpedited Filing Options
Many states offer expedited processing for an additional fee:
- 24-Hour Processing: Available in many states for $50-$100 extra
- Same-Day Processing: Some states offer same-day approval for higher fees
- 2-Hour Processing: Available in select states for premium fees ($500+)
Ready to Form Your LLC?
Select your state below for detailed instructions and filing options.
Get Started