How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in Georgia (Full Guide)
If you're establishing a limited liability company in Georgia, consult with the Secretary of State regarding the processing times so that you understand how long it'll take for your LLC to be operational.
As an expert in mergers and acquisitions and a degree holder in tax law, I had the opportunity to work with multiple businesses and entrepreneurs and help them with LLC formation.
Collaborating with our expert panel, we ascertained the latest information regarding the processing 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 1 week if you file online.
- The Georgia Secretary of State offers expedited filing for registration documents at an additional fee of $1000 for a 1-hour delivery.
- In 2023, Georgia's 1.2 million small businesses represented 99.6% of all state businesses, highlighting its strong entrepreneurial environment, per the US Small Business Administration. This makes Georgia a favorable place for LLC formation, impacting the process's duration.
- If you want your LLC to be approved immediately, I advise clients to file online and avail of the accelerated 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 [1].
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 entity.
The following methods represent your options on how to file an LLC 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
- $1000 for a one-hour document delivery
When clients request expedited service, I avail of the same-day processing option. This will enable them to start their businesses as soon as possible.
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 [2].
“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 processing 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 processing 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 46,568 new businesses between March 2021 and March 2022, 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.
References:
- https://georgia.gov/register-llc#
- https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/
