How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in Georgia (Full Guide)
If you're establishing a limited liability company in Georgia, the Secretary of State offers multiple filing options with processing times ranging from 1 hour to 15 business days.
As a tax law professional who has guided 30+ businesses through Georgia LLC formation, I collaborated with our expert panel to verify the latest handling times directly from the Secretary of State's official website.
Collaborating with our expert panel, we ascertained the latest information regarding the handling time of an LLC in Georgia by navigating the Secretary of State's official website.
Quick Summary
- It takes approximately 15 business days to form an LLC in Georgia by mail and 7 business days if you file online.
- The Georgia Secretary of State offers expedited filing at additional fees: $100 for 2-day processing, $250 for same-day, and $1,000 for 1-hour delivery.
- Georgia's 1.4 million small businesses represent 99.7% of all state businesses, per the 2025 US Small Business Administration profile [1].
- For fastest approval, I advise clients to file online and select expedited service.
What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in Georgia?
The fastest way to start an LLC in Georgia is by availing of the expedited service. You can choose between a 2-day approval, same-day processing, or one-hour delivery [2].
Note that one-hour delivery is only available for mail and in-person submissions. If you filed directly at the office, accelerated processing service applies.
LLC Processing Time in Georgia
The processing time in the state of Georgia will vary depending on the registration method you prefer when filing for your domestic LLC or foreign business entity.
The following methods represent your options on how to file a domestic limited liability company in Georgia.
1. Expedited Georgia LLC Processing Time (2-day processing + $100)
The Georgia Secretary of State offers the following expedited processing options:
- $100 for a 2-day processing time
- $250 for same-day processing (must be submitted before noon on a business day)
- $1000 for a one-hour document delivery (mail and in-person only)
Expedited fees are in addition to the standard filing fee ($100 online or $110 by mail). The expedited review period applies only during business hours on business days and excludes weekends and state holidays.
When clients need their Georgia LLC operational quickly, I recommend the same-day processing option. This allows them to begin business operations within 24 hours of filing.
2. Non-Expedited Georgia LLC Processing Time By Mail (15 business days)
The Georgia Secretary of State takes 15 business days to process and approve standard mail applications.
You can log in to the SOS website and download the PDF (CD 030) form.
I always ensure that I filled out all the details pertaining to the business, including name, LLC address, and registered agent contact details. This way, the application won't be rejected.
After that, you must also download and fill out the Transmittal Form LLC (231) from the Georgia Corporations division website.
Attach the two documents and mail them along with the $110 filing fee. Note that the SOS only accepts payments for mail submissions through checks or money orders.
3. Georgia LLC Processing Time Online (7 business days)
The total processing time for online LLC filing is 7 business days.
Before you start the filing process, you must create an online user account and log in with your username and password.
After filling in the details, a colleague proceeded to pay the $100 filing fee using their Mastercard; however, you can also pay with Visa, Discover, or American Express [3].
“While online filing reigns supreme, mailing in your Georgia LLC paperwork is an alternative."
- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter
Factors Influencing The Formation Timeline Of Georgia LLCs
Although the state has an established approval timeframe, your application may take more time to process due to the following reasons:
- Filing method: Each method of application for Georgia LLCs has varying processing times. If you want a shorter turnaround period, you can pay extra state fees for expedited delivery.
- Office workload: The handling time can be prolonged due to the high volume of filings.
- Documentation issues: If your documents contain inaccurate and incomplete details, the state will reject your application. You’ll have to amend the data and resubmit your formation papers. I always advise clients to review all documents before submission.
- Weekends and holidays: The state of Georgia only reviews applications during regular working hours; as such, the handling time may be delayed if you file just before the weekend or holiday.
Despite potential setbacks, the encouraging business climate in Georgia led to the formation of 41,761 new businesses between March 2023 and March 2024, as noted by the US Small Business Administration.
FAQs
Where Can I Check the Status of My Georgia LLC Formation During the Processing Period?
You can check the status of your Georgia LLC formation during the processing period by subscribing to the E-notification system. You’ll receive alerts regarding the current status of your application.
Is There a Difference in Processing Time for Domestic and Foreign LLCs in Georgia?
There is no difference in processing time for domestic and foreign LLCs in Georgia. Your application is reviewed based on the filing method you opted for.
Do I Need an Operating Agreement and Business Bank Account for My Georgia LLC?
You do not legally need an operating agreement or business bank account in Georgia, but they are strongly recommended to structure your business and protect liability.
Does My Georgia LLC Need to Register With the Internal Revenue Service and Collect Sales Tax?
Your Georgia LLC needs to register with the Internal Revenue Service for an EIN if you have employees or elect corporate taxation. Georgia imposes 4% state sales tax, plus local taxes by county, on taxable goods and services.
References:
- https://advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Georgia_2025-State-Profile.pdf
- https://georgia.gov/register-llc#
- https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/
