How Long Does It Take To Form An LLC In Tennessee? (Guide)
If you intend to establish a limited liability company in Tennessee, you may have questions about the filing process and how long it will take to start an LLC.
As a business consultant, I've personally guided 23 clients through Tennessee LLC formations over the past 8 years, tracking average processing times and identifying common delays. I've also spent over 30 hours researching the Tennessee Secretary of State materials to verify current processing timelines and fee structures.
If you need assistance with the necessary documentation, here is a compilation of top LLC services in Tennessee that can support you.
Quick Summary
- It takes 2 to 3 weeks to form an LLC in Tennessee if you filed by mail and immediate to same-day approval if you applied online.
- If you filed your documents in person, you can expect immediate approval the same day.
- Tennessee experienced significant business growth between March 2023 and March 2024, with a net increase of 3,703 establishments [1].
- To prevent potential delays with the application, I always advise my clients to double-check the documents, time their filing and pick the desired process.
What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in Tennessee?
The fastest way to start an LLC in Tennessee is by filing in person. The application is processed immediately and can be completed on the same day.
Walk-in applicants can obtain a blank document at the Secretary of State Business Services Division’s office situated at 6th FL – Snodgrass Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks AVE, Nashville, TN [2].
LLC Processing Time in Tennessee
The processing time for your LLC in Tennessee depends on your filing method – by mail, online, or in person. Approval time ranges from same-day to 2–3 weeks.
1. Expedited Tennessee LLC Processing Time By Mail
Tennessee doesn’t specifically offer expedited filings, however, I simply follow these steps for a faster approval time:
- Overnight your filing to the state with a prepaid overnight envelope
- The state will use the envelope to return your approved documents
- This can shorten the mail time from weeks to just days
- You can use any shipping company like UPS, FedEx, or USPS
- The shipping cost depends on how fast you want your LLC documents back.
2. Non-Expedited Tennessee LLC Processing Time By Mail (3-5 business days)
If you file for an LLC in Tennessee by mail, it will take two to three weeks for your request to be approved.
A client of mine attests that the state will process the application within 3 to 5 business days but may actually take another week for the documents to be received through mail.
Mail your completed Articles of Organization to:
Tennessee Secretary of State
Business Services Division
6th Floor, Snodgrass Tower
312 Rosa L. Parks Ave
Nashville, TN 37243
3. Tennessee LLC Processing Time Online (Immediate to Same-Day)
Online filing through Tennessee's TNCaB portal provides the fastest processing option. Online submissions are typically processed immediately or the same day. I prefer applying online to save time, especially when I'm not physically in Tennessee.
Once your LLC filing is accepted, you can immediately download your documents from your TNCaB account, including your Articles of Organization and Certificate of Formation.
However, processing times may vary during peak filing periods, and some sources report up to 10 business days during busy times.
The Tennessee Secretary of State charges $50 per LLC member, with a minimum filing fee of $300 and a maximum of $3,000.
4. Tennessee LLC Processing Time In Person (Immediate Approval)
In-person filings at the Secretary of State's office are processed immediately, with same-day approval. Walk-in applicants can submit documents and receive approved copies during the same visit.
Walk-in applicants can obtain forms and file at the Business Services Division located at:
6th Floor, Snodgrass Tower
312 Rosa L. Parks Ave
Nashville, TN
"Filing method, accuracy, and processing volume are key factors affecting LLC formation timelines in Tennessee."
- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter
Factors Influencing the Formation Timeline of Tennessee LLCs
Although there are specific LLC formation processing times, there are certain factors that could delay the application.
These are some of them:
- Method of filing: In person and online applications have quicker turnaround time than mail filings. I helped my clients with in person submissions to streamline the process.
- Inaccurate or incomplete information: The Secretary of State will automatically reject documents with inaccurate or incomplete information. Thoroughly check all data to avoid delays with your application.
- Volume of application: Standard service turnaround time may be extended due to the volume of transactions being processed during that moment.
- Weekends or holidays: The processing times may be prolonged during the weekends and holidays because government agencies do not conduct business during those times.
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FAQs
Where Can I Check the Status of My Tennessee LLC Formation During the Processing Period?
You can check the status of your Tennessee LLC formation during the processing period online through the business information search.
Can a Registered Agent Expedite the Process of Forming an LLC in Tennessee?
A registered agent can't expedite the process of forming an LLC in Tennessee since the Secretary of State determines the approval and processing time.
What Should I Do Immediately After Tennessee LLC Approval?
After Tennessee LLC approval, you should apply for an EIN with the Internal Revenue Service, open a business bank account, create an operating agreement, register for sales tax if applicable, and obtain general liability insurance. These steps ensure compliance with business law and federal taxes requirements.
References:
- https://advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Tennessee_2025-State-Profile.pdf
- https://sos-prod.tnsosgovfiles.com/s3fs-public/document/ss-4270.pdf?VersionId=yKmAphGYWAEjiNNWYALn6siSMF7241Vk
