How much does it cost to start an LLC in Washington?

The Washington Secretary of State charges a $200 filing fee for Articles of Organization. You'll also need to pay the $60 annual report fee in your anniversary month, making your total first-year cost $260. Additional costs may include registered agent services ($100-300/year) and business licenses.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Washington?

Washington processes LLC formations in just 2 business days for online filings, making it one of the fastest states in the country. If you file by mail, expect 7-10 business days for processing.

Do I need to publish my Washington LLC formation in a newspaper?

No, Washington does not require LLC publication. Unlike states like New York or Arizona, you can form your LLC without paying for newspaper advertisements, saving you hundreds of dollars in publication costs.

What is Washington's annual report requirement for LLCs?

Washington LLCs must file an annual report by the last day of their anniversary month (the month you formed your LLC). The fee is $60, and you can file online through the Secretary of State's website. Failure to file results in administrative dissolution.

Can I be my own registered agent in Washington?

Yes, you can serve as your own registered agent if you have a physical address in Washington and are available during business hours. However, many business owners prefer using a professional service to maintain privacy and ensure reliable document receipt.

Does Washington have state income tax for LLCs?

Washington has no state income tax on individuals, but LLCs may be subject to the Business & Occupation (B&O) tax based on gross receipts. The B&O tax rates vary by business activity, with many small businesses qualifying for exemptions or reduced rates.

Start Your Washington LLC in Just 2 Business Days

Form your Washington LLC with our step-by-step guide. Low $200 filing fee and fast processing make it easy for new entrepreneurs.

By Edmond Hui · Last updated: January 2026

Key Finding

Washington's 2 business day processing time ranks #2 fastest of all 50 U.S. states

This ultra-fast approval means you can start operating your LLC and open business bank accounts within days, not weeks like in slower states.

Source: MyStateLLC 50-state analysis 2026

Read this guide for another state:

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Start your LLC with ZenBusinessIncludes 1 year registered agent + operating agreement Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee)Best for privacy-focused founders

Quick Facts

State filing fee	$200
Processing time	2 business days
Annual report due	Anniversary month
Annual report fee	$60
State income tax	No personal income tax on individuals

How to Form an LLC: Step-by-Step

1
Choose Your Washington LLC Name
Your LLC name must include 'LLC' or 'Limited Liability Company' and be distinguishable from existing business names in Washington. Check name availability using the Washington Secretary of State's business search tool.
Pro tip: Reserve your name for 180 days by filing a Name Reservation form with a $30 fee if you're not ready to file immediately.
2
Select a Registered Agent
Washington requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. This can be yourself, a friend, or a professional service that will receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC.
Pro tip: Using a professional registered agent service protects your privacy and ensures you never miss important legal notices.
3
File Articles of Organization
Submit your Articles of Organization to the Washington Secretary of State online or by mail with the $200 filing fee. You'll need your LLC name, registered agent information, and management structure details.
Pro tip: File online for faster processing and instant confirmation of your submission.
4
Create an Operating Agreement
While not required by Washington law, an operating agreement outlines ownership percentages, profit distribution, and management decisions. This protects your personal assets and prevents disputes between members.
5
Obtain an EIN from the IRS
Get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) directly from the IRS website for free. This federal tax ID is required to open business bank accounts and file taxes, even for single-member LLCs.
6
Open a Business Bank Account
Use your Articles of Organization and EIN to open a business bank account. This separates your personal and business finances, which is crucial for maintaining your LLC's liability protection.
7
Get Required Business Licenses
Check with Washington state and local authorities for industry-specific licenses. Some businesses need state licenses, city permits, or professional certifications before operating legally in Washington.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Start your LLC with ZenBusinessIncludes 1 year registered agent + operating agreement Form your LLC with Northwest ($39 + state fee)Best for privacy-focused founders

← All Washington LLC guides

Quick Facts

How to Form an LLC: Step-by-Step

Choose Your Washington LLC Name

Select a Registered Agent

File Articles of Organization

Create an Operating Agreement

Obtain an EIN from the IRS

Open a Business Bank Account

Get Required Business Licenses

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Form Your Washington LLC?

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