How to Start an LLC in Tennessee: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting an LLC in Tennessee requires careful planning and attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure your business is properly formed and compliant with state regulations.

Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Tennessee can be a straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to start an LLC in Tennessee, including the necessary paperwork, fees, and regulations.

An LLC is a popular business structure that offers personal liability protection and tax benefits. To start an LLC in Tennessee, you will need to file articles of organization with the Tennessee Secretary of State and obtain any necessary licenses and permits.

Step 1: Choose a Business Name

The first step in starting an LLC in Tennessee is to choose a unique and memorable business name. Your business name must be distinguishable from other business names in the state, and it must not contain any words or phrases that are prohibited by the Tennessee Secretary of State. You can search for available business names using the Tennessee Secretary of State's business name search tool.

Step 2: File Articles of Organization

Once you have chosen a business name, you will need to file articles of organization with the Tennessee Secretary of State. The articles of organization must include the following information:

  • Business name and address
  • Business purpose
  • Manager or member information
  • Authorized capital
  • Effective date

You can file the articles of organization online or by mail. The filing fee is $300 for online filing and $300 for mail filing.

Step 3: Obtain an EIN

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique number assigned to your business by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You will need an EIN to open a business bank account, file taxes, and hire employees. You can apply for an EIN online or by mail.

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

An operating agreement is a document that outlines the ownership and management structure of your LLC. It should include the following information:

  • Member or manager information
  • Ownership percentage
  • Management structure
  • Decision-making process

You can create an operating agreement using a template or by consulting with an attorney.

Step 5: Obtain Licenses and Permits

Depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need to obtain licenses and permits from the state of Tennessee or local government. For example, if you are starting a food business, you will need to obtain a food service permit from the Tennessee Department of Health.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account

Once you have obtained an EIN and created an operating agreement, you can open a business bank account. This will help you keep your personal and business finances separate and make it easier to manage your business expenses.

Step 7: File Annual Reports

Every year, you will need to file an annual report with the Tennessee Secretary of State. This report must include the following information:

  • Business name and address
  • Business purpose
  • Manager or member information
  • Authorized capital

The filing fee for annual reports is $50.

Starting an LLC in Tennessee can be a complex process, but by following these steps, you can ensure that your business is properly formed and compliant with state regulations. It's always a good idea to consult with an attorney or accountant to ensure that you are meeting all the necessary requirements.

In conclusion, starting an LLC in Tennessee requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure that your business is properly formed and compliant with state regulations. Remember to file annual reports, obtain necessary licenses and permits, and keep your business finances separate from your personal finances.

Legal help, anytime and anywhere

Join launch list and get access to Cimphony for a discounted early bird price, Cimphony goes live in 7 days
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Unlimited all-inclusive to achieve maximum returns
$399
$299
one time lifetime price
Access to all contract drafting
Unlimited user accounts
Unlimited contract analyze, review
Access to all editing blocks
e-Sign within seconds
Start 14 Days Free Trial
For a small company that wants to show what it's worth.
$29
$19
Per User / Per month
10 contracts drafting
5 User accounts
3 contracts analyze, review
Access to all editing blocks
e-Sign within seconds
Start 14 Days Free Trial
Free start for your project on our platform.
$19
$9
Per User / Per Month
1 contract draft
1 User account
3 contracts analyze, review
Access to all editing blocks
e-Sign within seconds
Start 14 Days Free Trial
Lifetime unlimited
Unlimited all-inclusive to achieve maximum returns
$999
$699
one time lifetime price

6 plans remaining at this price
Access to all legal document creation
Unlimited user accounts
Unlimited document analyze, review
Access to all editing blocks
e-Sign within seconds
Start 14 Days Free Trial
Monthly
For a company that wants to show what it's worth.
$99
$79
Per User / Per month
10 document drafting
5 User accounts
3 document analyze, review
Access to all editing blocks
e-Sign within seconds
Start 14 Days Free Trial
Base
Business owners starting on our platform.
$69
$49
Per User / Per Month
1 document draft
1 User account
3 document analyze, review
Access to all editing blocks
e-Sign within seconds
Start 14 Days Free Trial

Save 90% on your legal bills