How to Start an LLC in CT
To start an LLC in Connecticut, you need a business name, a registered agent, and to fill out and submit a Certificate of Organization to the Connecticut Secretary of State for $120. After that, you’ll take a few organizational steps to ensure your LLC is ready for business. Here’s how to do it.
Step 1: Name Your Connecticut LLC
You’ll need a business name that meets Connecticut’s rules (you can find them in CT Gen Stat § 34-243k). Here are the main regulations to keep in mind:
What are Connecticut’s business name requirements?
- Your LLC’s name will need an entity identifier like “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or the words “Limited Liability Company.” Your LLC’s name can’t contain a bogus entity identifier like “Corporation” or “Corp,” the identifier must match your entity type.
How do I know if my LLC name is unique in the state?
- Your LLC’s name must be unique in Connecticut. If another business is using your name, or one close to it, your paperwork will be rejected. You’ll want to check via Connecticut’s Business Records Search to make sure the name you want is available.
Are others using the name online?
- Once you have settled on a state available business name, check to see if it is also available online as a domain name or social media handle. Using the same or similar business name online gives your business a higher level of legitimacy with clients.
Can you register the name as a trademark?
- Want your business name protected nationwide? Apply to have your business federally trademarked with our trademark registration service. You can add a trademark registration with your LLC formation order. Our trademark team works with you through the application process, and our trademark attorneys will are here to provide recommendations if any obstacles to its registration are found.
Can an LLC go by a different name in Connecticut?
Yes. If you use a different business name than the one on your formation documents, that name is called a trade name or “doing business as” name. You’ll need to register any trade names with the local town clerk in the town where you’re doing business.
Step 2: Choose a Connecticut Registered Agent
Once you have your business name and your registered agent’s information, you can move on to the paperwork that forms your LLC: the Certificate of Organization. You can fill it out by paper and send it in the mail or submit it online. Before you get started, make sure you have the following information handy:
Appointing a registered agent is legally required in Connecticut. At a minimum, your registered agent must:
- Have a physical address in Connecticut
- Be present at that address during business hours
- Accept and forward legal notices to your business
While any individual who meets these requirements can be a registered agent, a professional registered agent can usually provide a lot more in terms of help setting up your business and protecting your privacy.
Can I be my own registered agent in Connecticut?
Yes, as long as you have a physical address in Connecticut. But keep in mind that if you act as your own registered agent, you’ll have to list your address on the public record. You’ll also have to be available at this address during business hours and update the Connecticut Secretary of State whenever your address changes.
Step 3: File Connecticut Certificate of Organization
Once you have your business name and your registered agent’s information, you can move on to the paperwork that forms your LLC: the Certificate of Organization. You can fill it out by paper and send it in the mail or submit it online. Before you get started, make sure you have the following information handy:
1
Business name
This will need to be unique in Connecticut and include a designator like “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.”
2
Principal Office Address
This is where you do business or keep your business records. You can use almost any address except for a PO box—hire us and we’ll list our address here.
3
Mailing Address
If you want to get mail at a different address, you can list that address here.
4
Registered Agent
List the name and address of the individual who will accept service of process on behalf of your LLC in person (or hire us and we’ll list our info here). Your registered agent will either have to sign the paper form or click a link accepting their appointment within 72 hours of when you file online.
5
Manager or Member Information
You have to list the name and address of at least one member or manager. A member is an LLC owner, while a manager is someone you hire to run the day-to-day operations of your business. Hire us and we’ll provide an address for these fields to keep yours off the public record.
6
Business Email Address
The state will send notifications here. When you hire us to set up your LLC, we’ll provide you with a business email address free for 90 days.
7
Business email address
The state will use this email to send you notices.
8
NAICS Code
This is a code the federal government provides to classify business types. Find yours by searching your business type on the NAICS website.
9
Organizer
This is just whoever is filling out and submitting your paperwork. It can’t be your LLC itself. When you hire us, we’ll list our information here.
It’s important to remember that everything you list on this form will be posted online, so it’s smart to minimize the use of personal information like home addresses. Protection of personal information online is a big reason why most businesses hire a registered agent.
How long does it take to get an LLC approved in Connecticut?
If you send your Certificate of Organization to the Connecticut Secretary of State by mail, you can expect it to take around 7-10 business days, not counting mail time. If you file online, it’ll only take 2-3 business days. You can also pay an extra $50 for expedited service and have your LLC approved in 24 hours.
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Step 4: Set Up Business Operations
Once your Certificate of Organization is approved by the Connecticut Secretary of State, you have an LLC. But you’ll still need to take some steps to make sure your LLC is ready to do business.
Draft an operating agreement.
While not required by law in Connecticut, an operating agreement is crucial. It’s a contract that defines how your LLC will vote, distribute money, handle disputes, and more. Don’t skip it.
Get an EIN.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a tax ID you can get through the IRS online. You’ll need one when you open your business bank account, and/or if you decide to hire employees. Applying for an EIN with the IRS is free and only takes a few minutes.
Organize your company finances.
our LLC will need a business bank account where members can make initial contributions. This will help you keep your personal money separate from your LLC’s money (a crucial step in maintaining your limited liability status).
Obtain licenses and permits.
Connecticut does not require businesses to obtain a general business license. However, some businesses may need certain licenses and permits depending on the industry in which they participate. Check out the CT Department of Consumer Protection site to see if your business’s industry qualifies for further state or local licenses or permits.
Step 5: File BOI Report
The Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report is a mandatory federal filing that discloses ownership information to the federal government. The BOI Report is a result of the Corporate Transparency Act, which aims to combat money laundering and other illicit activity.
Businesses formed in 2024 have 90 days from registration to file their BOI Report. In 2025, that window shrinks to just 30 days. We can take care of this requirement for you when you hire us to form your LLC.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a business email address?
When you hire us to act as your registered agent or start an LLC, we’ll provide up to ten email addresses ending in the domain name of your choosing for $5 per month.
Should my domain name match my business name exactly?
Not necessarily. If your business name is short, memorable, and available as a domain name—then absolutely. But if your business name is long and tricky to spell (for example, “Genevieve’s Vintage Emporium”), then you might be smart to go with something shorter and easier to type in (like “GensVintage.com”). The most important consideration is that your domain name and your business name are each on brand for your business, complementing each other in some way.
When is the Connecticut annual report due?
The Connecticut annual report is due March 31st. It’s a yearly report that keeps the Connecticut Secretary of State up-to-date on your LLC, and it costs $80 to file. Hire us and we’ll take care of this for you for free.
How do I write an operating agreement?
Most LLC owners do not write their own operating agreements. You can hire a lawyer to draw up your operating agreement, find a template online, or hire a registered agent who can provide one for you (that’s us!) Our attorneys have drafted operating agreements for every state. You can access yours, customize it, and add it to your company records within your account after you hire us.
How do I contact the Connecticut Secretary of State?
You can contact the Connecticut Secretary of State by:
Phone: 860-509-6002
Fax: 860-509-6069
Email: [email protected]
Mailing address:
PO Box 150470
Hartford, CT 06115-0470
Physical address:
165 Capitol Avenue, Suite 1000
Hartford, CT 06106