How to Start an LLC in Oklahoma
Ready to start your LLC in Oklahoma? This guide will walk you through the entire process. From LLC naming regulations to the state and federal filings needed to create your business, it’s all here in five easy steps.
Create an OK LLC in 5 Steps:
Step 1: Name Your Oklahoma LLC
Choosing a name for your Oklahoma LLC is the first step you’ll take when forming your business. You’ll need to choose a name before you file your Articles of Organization, the document that registers your business with the state. Below are some guidelines to keep in mind when naming your LLC:
What are Oklahoma’s business name requirements?
- According to Oklahoma Statutes §18-2008, the name of your LLC must contain the words “limited liability company,” or some acceptable abbreviation like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”
Is the name unique in the state?
- Oklahoma state laws also say that the LLC name you choose must be distinguishable from any other active business name in the state. You can check the OK Corporate Entity Database to see if the LLC name you want is available.
Are others using the name online?
- Once you’ve ensured the name is available and meets Oklahoma’s naming requirements, see whether it’s in use as a domain name or social media handle. Using the same or similar name online as you have on record with the state will give your business an incredible advantage in terms of greater visibility to clients and brand recognition.
- When you hire us to form your Oklahoma LLC, we can register your business domain for free and give you three free months of email and website services (they’re just $9/month after that).
Can you register the name as a trademark?
- Trademarking your LLC name at the federal level helps protect its uniqueness in every state. When you hire us to form your LLC, you can add our trademarking service to your order. Our trademark team performs clearance searches and our attorneys offer advice if they find roadblocks to registration.
Step 2: Choose an Oklahoma Registered Agent
All LLCs must appoint and maintain an Oklahoma registered agent and registered office where the agent accepts legal mail on your business’s behalf. The registered agent can be an individual, the LLC itself, or a different business entity. The registered office must be a physical Oklahoma address (PO boxes are not acceptable). Below are the rules for all Oklahoma registered agents:
- Individuals: must be over the age of 18 and a resident of the “Sooner State.” They must be willing to list their full name and physical address on public record, and be present there during normal business hours to receive legal mail.
- Entities: must be registered in Oklahoma and in good standing with the state. They must be open and staffed during normal business hours to receive legal mail at their Oklahoma registered office address.
Step 3: File Oklahoma Articles of Organization
To officially form your LLC in Oklahoma, you’ll need to submit the LLC Articles of Organization application to the Oklahoma Secretary of State. The filing fee is $100 and can be filed by mail, in person, or online. Here is the information you need to complete this filing:
1
Business name
Don’t forget to include the words “limited liability company” or one of its abbreviations (LLC, L.L.C., Ltd Liability Co., etc.).
2
Principal place of business
This must be a physical address but does not need to be an Oklahoma address (PO boxes are not acceptable).
3
Email address
This is where the state will send annual report notices.
4
Registered agent & registered office information
Name and street address of your agent in Oklahoma. This must be a physical address in the state.
5
Term of existence
Most LLCs choose “perpetual,” meaning your LLC will be active until you decide to close it. Or, you can set a specific date when your LLC will expire.
6
Execution
The signature of the person preparing or authorizing the preparation of this application. This person may or may not be a member of the LLC.
How long does it take for an LLC to be approved in Oklahoma?
The state’s office can take 1-7 business days to approve your Oklahoma LLC, depending on how you file. Mailed filings are processed within 5-7 business days, while online filings only take 2-3 business days. In-person filings are processed the quickest at an hour or less, but there’s an extra $25 fee.
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Step 4: Set Up Business Operations
Now that your Oklahoma LLC is formed with the state, it’s time to set up your business operations. Completing the following actions will get your business up and running without a hitch:
Create an operating agreement.
An operating agreement clearly states the ground rules for running your company. It defines ownership percentages, outlines member responsibilities, and how profits and losses are distributed. Without an operating agreement, your LLC runs the risk of the state deciding how internal disputes are handled.
Get an EIN.
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is like the social security number for your LLC. Banks like to see that you have one before they’ll open a business bank account with you. You will also need it to pay taxes and if you decide to hire employees.
Manage your company’s money.
To keep your LLC’s natural liability protections, you’ll need to keep your business income separate from your personal income. The easiest way to do this is to open a separate bank account just for your business.
Obtain licenses and permits.
Your Oklahoma LLC may need additional licenses or permits depending on the nature of the business it’s conducting. The Oklahoma Department of Commerce has all the information you’ll need to determine if you need further licensing. If you’ll be selling taxable goods or services, you may need a State Sales Tax Permit from the Oklahoma Tax Commission.
Step 5: File BOI Report
Most LLCs are required to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report following business registration. The report asks about the company itself, as well as all owners who own at least 25% of the business and/or who have substantial control over the company.
All BOI Reports are submitted to FinCEN with specific deadlines according to the LLCs formation year. LLCs formed in 2024 have 90 days from registration to file. LLCs formed in 2025 or later will have just 30 days to file.
When you hire us to form your Oklahoma LLC, you can add the BOI Report filing to the order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is needed to start an LLC in Oklahoma?
To start an LLC in Oklahoma, you’ll need to create an original LLC name, appoint an Oklahoma registered agent, and submit the Articles of Organization to the OK Secretary of State. You’ll also need to pay the $100 filing fee (+4% if you pay with a credit/debit card) by mail or online. If you file in person, you’ll need to pay an extra $25.
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Oklahoma?
Starting an LLC in Oklahoma costs $100. Depending on how you file with the state, there may be extra charges. For example, paying with credit/debit card means paying an extra 4% ($104 total). In-person filings are approved the same day for an extra $25 fee.
When is the Oklahoma Annual Report due?
The Oklahoma Annual Report is due on your formation anniversary date each year and costs only $25. When you hire us to be your Oklahoma registered agent, the annual report filing is included (clients pay only the state fee).
Do LLCs pay taxes in Oklahoma?
Your LLC is taxed as a “pass through entity” in Oklahoma. This means LLC members pay individual income taxes on the earnings awarded through the LLC. When it comes time to pay taxes, check in with the Oklahoma Tax Commission to make sure you have the correct forms and are paying the correct fees.
How do I contact the Oklahoma Secretary of State?
You can get in touch with the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office in the following ways:
Phone: 405-521-3912
Fax: 405-521-3771
Physical & Mailing address:
Business Filing Department
2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Room 101
Oklahoma City, OK 73105-4897