How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Department of State achieved a historic improvement in 2025, cutting business filing processing times to just one business day for LLC filings, down from 13.6 days in 2023. This improvement occurred despite business filings more than tripling [1].
Since I have a Master's Degree in Tax Law and helped countless clients with LLC formation, I'll share with you my insights on Pennsylvania's processing and approval times.
I’ve spent the last weeks looking through the Pennsylvania Department of State website and consulting with certified LLC specialists in the state.
Starting a Pennsylvania LLC can be challenging for newcomers due to complex state requirements. Hiring a Pennsylvania LLC service is crucial for guidance, document handling, and ensuring compliance with state business laws.
Quick Summary
- It takes 1-3 business days to form an LLC in Pennsylvania if you file online and 2-3 weeks if submitted by mail.
- Expedited filings are only accepted for in-person submissions at an additional cost of $100 (same-day service), $300 (three-hour service), and $1,000 (one-hour service).
- Having formed an LLC in Pennsylvania, I can attest that online filing is now the fastest and most practical option for most business owners.
What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in Pennsylvania?
The fastest way to start an LLC in Pennsylvania in 2026 is by filing online, which now processes in just 1-3 business days. This is significantly faster than the historical processing times and often faster than traveling to Harrisburg for in-person expedited service.
For situations requiring same-day approval, you can still file in person with expedited service:
- File before 10 a.m. and pay an extra $100 for same-day service
- File before 2 p.m. and pay an extra $300 for three-hour service
- File before 4 p.m. and pay an additional $1,000 for one-hour service
Cash payment is not accepted. Instead, you can pay by check, customer deposit account, credit card or money order. Note that all fees are not refundable [2].
LLC Processing Time in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Secretary of State's office dramatically improved processing times in 2025 as part of Governor Shapiro's initiative to "work at the speed of business".
Below are the three methods to submit a Pennsylvania LLC formation document and current processing times for each.
1. Pennsylvania LLC Processing Time Online (1-3 Business Days)
Pennsylvania LLC online applications get processed in the order they are received. Submit a $125 filing fee to complete your domestic LLC and $250 for a foreign LLC formation, or complete the process for free if you're a veteran.
I was able to download my LLC formation documents as soon as the Department of State approved the application.
2. Non-Expedited Pennsylvania LLC Processing Time By Mail (15 business days)
Standard mail filings take 15 business days to be approved [3].
When I filed my application, I prepared and sent a hard copy of the Articles of Organization and an attached docketing statement since it is required by the Secretary of State.
Submit your Articles of Organization, Docketing Statement, and the filing fee to:
Pennsylvania Department of State
Bureau of Corporations
PO Box 8722
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8722
3. Expedited Pennsylvania LLC Processing Time In-Person Only (Same-Day Service +$100, 3-Hour Service +$300, 1-Hour Service +$1,000)
Pennsylvania only offers expedited service through in-person submissions at the Department of State office in Harrisburg. You cannot expedite online or mail filings.
If you file in person before 10 a.m., you can pay an extra $100 for same-day service. Filing before 2 p.m. with an additional $300 fee gets you three-hour processing. For one-hour service, submit before 4 p.m. with an extra $1,000 fee.
See our article for more information on how much does an LLC cost in Pennsylvania.
Given that online processing now takes only 1-3 business days, expedited in-person filing may no longer be necessary for most LLC formations unless you need approval within hours rather than days."
- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter
Factors Influencing the Formation Timeline of Pennsylvania LLCs
While Pennsylvania has dramatically improved processing efficiency, document accuracy can still affect your LLC formation timeline.
The state will not process documents with lacking or inaccurate information. That's why before I submit all required business papers, I thoroughly check and review the document.
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FAQs
Where Can I Check the Status of My Pennsylvania LLC Formation During the Processing Period?
You can't check the status of your Pennsylvania LLC formation during the processing period. You simply need to wait for the documents to be mailed to you by the state.
Is There a Difference in Processing Time for Domestic and Foreign LLCs in Pennsylvania?
There is no difference in processing time for domestic and foreign LLCs in Pennsylvania. The state will review and approve formation documents in the order they were received.
Does Pennsylvania Require a General Business License for LLCs?
Pennsylvania does not require a general business license for LLCs. However, you should register your business with the Department of Revenue if you sell taxable goods.
References:
- https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dos/newsroom/dos-cuts-licensing-and-business-processing-time-in-2025
- https://www.dos.pa.gov/BusinessCharities/Business/Resources/Pages/Fees-and-Payments.aspx
- https://www.dos.pa.gov/BusinessCharities/Business/Resources/Pages/FAQ.aspx
