Key Takeaways

  • Forming an LLC in Missouri requires filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State and paying a $50 online filing fee or $105 by mail.
  • Missouri does not require annual reports, making it one of the more affordable states for LLC maintenance.
  • Every LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical address in Missouri to receive legal documents.
  • An operating agreement is highly recommended to define ownership structure, profit distribution, and member duties.
  • LLC owners (members) can choose member-managed or manager-managed structures.
  • Missouri LLCs benefit from pass-through taxation, but may elect corporate taxation if desired.
  • Depending on your business type and location, you may need local business licenses, sales tax permits, and workers’ compensation insurance.

What Is an LLC in Missouri?

An LLC Missouri is a limited liability company that is started and run in that state of Missouri.

Benefits of Forming an LLC in Missouri

Starting an LLC in Missouri offers numerous advantages to business owners seeking flexibility and protection. Missouri LLCs provide limited liability protection, meaning personal assets are generally protected from business debts or lawsuits. Additionally, Missouri’s lack of an annual report requirement makes it one of the most cost-effective states to maintain an LLC.

Members also benefit from pass-through taxation, where business income is reported on personal tax returns, avoiding double taxation. LLCs in Missouri can also select how they are taxed—either as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation—depending on what best suits the business structure.

Missouri offers a strong business support ecosystem, including Small Business Development Centers and the Secretary of State’s online filing system, which streamlines startup and compliance tasks.

Starting LLC

If you have decided to start an LLC in the state of Missouri, you will need to start at the beginning with the most important step, completing research and coming up with the business name that best suits your business, what the LLC offers, and whether or not the name can be found easily by individuals who are searching for it.

Follow the Naming Guidelines

Your LLC name will need to include and exclude a few things. It has to contain the abbreviation LLC or the words limited liability company. You also will need to stay away from words and phrases that are considered restricted by the state. Things like University or Bank cannot be included in the name, unless you file specific paperwork and can show that your business is involved in the venture described by the restricted word.

You also must stay away from any name that includes words, phrases, or initials that make it seem as though it is an official entity like a state or federal government agency.

Reserve Your Missouri LLC Name

If you are not yet ready to file your Articles of Organization, Missouri allows you to reserve your business name for up to 60 days. You can reserve a name online through the Secretary of State’s website or by mail for a $25 fee. This ensures your desired name remains protected while you finalize formation documents or business plans.

Is the Name Available in Missouri?

Names also need to be original and exclusive, meaning that it cannot be one that has already been taken by someone else in the state. You can check on this by searching a database through the state of Missouri’s government website.

Is the URL Available?

Even if the name of the business is not taken, the website and email associated with it may be. This can keep you from starting a website or communicating with customers or clients through an email specific to your brand. If the name is available and so is the website, acquire these things with the email together.

What Is a Registered Agent?

A registered agent is a specific individual who you assign who can receive papers or documents that are officially drafted for your business. This typically means the person will be able to accept legal and tax papers. State filling documents and lawsuit paperwork are a few examples of the things that the registered agent must accept.

Who Can be a Registered Agent?

This individual does not need to be a professional, but they do need to be someone living in the state of Missouri and someone who is able to do business in the state too. This person may or may not be involved in your business directly. This means that you can decide on whether or not you want a member of the LLC to be your agent or not.

Registered Agent Requirements and Responsibilities in Missouri

Your registered agent must have a physical street address in Missouri and be available during normal business hours to receive service of process, tax forms, and official correspondence. The agent can be an individual resident or a business entity authorized to operate in Missouri.

While you can act as your own registered agent, many businesses opt for professional registered agent services to maintain privacy and ensure compliance with state notifications. If your LLC fails to maintain a registered agent, the state can administratively dissolve your business.

To Register an LLC, You Will Need to File the Articles of Organization With the State of Missouri

LLCs can only be started in Missouri if Articles of Organization are drafted and filed. When you start to fill out the documents, you will need to make some decisions. For example, do you want the business to be managed by a manager or by the members who make up the LLC?

Missouri LLC Filing Fees and Processing Times

Missouri offers both online and paper filing options.

  • Online filing fee: $50
  • Paper filing fee: $105

Online submissions through the Secretary of State’s portal are typically processed within 1–2 business days, while mail-in applications may take up to two weeks.

Once approved, the Secretary of State will issue a Certificate of Organization, which legally establishes your LLC. You can download this certificate immediately when filing online.

What Is the Operating Agreement?

Operating agreements are important and valuable documents that you need to draft when you start your LLC. They are legal papers that outline who owns the LLC and also how the business operates.

Missouri LLC Management and Ownership Structure

Missouri allows both single-member and multi-member LLCs, with ownership represented by membership interests rather than stock shares. LLCs can be either:

  • Member-managed, where all members share daily operational control, or
  • Manager-managed, where members appoint one or more managers to oversee business operations.

An operating agreement should define:

  • Ownership percentages
  • Member voting rights
  • Profit and loss allocations
  • Procedures for adding or removing members
  • Succession and dissolution processes

Without an operating agreement, your LLC will default to Missouri’s LLC Act, which may not align with your preferred structure or management style.

What Is an EIN?

An EIN is an Employer Identification Number. The EIN, which is sometimes called a federal tax identification number, is an identification that tells the federal government who you are. The EIN is something like a Social Security Number, only it is the legal identification for a business, not a person.

Why Do I Need an EIN?

The EIN is required, and it is needed when you go to fill out and file your federal and state income tax forms. If you start opening business accounts through the bank and apply for loans, you will also need the EIN in most cases. The EIN is free to apply for and acquired through the IRS.

Missouri LLC Taxation and Reporting

Missouri LLCs enjoy pass-through taxation, meaning profits are only taxed once—on the owners’ personal returns. However, if you prefer corporate taxation for reinvestment benefits or lower rates, you can elect to be taxed as an S Corporation or C Corporation using IRS Form 2553 or Form 8832.

Missouri also imposes a state income tax on LLC members, and LLCs with employees must withhold state and federal payroll taxes. If you sell goods or services, you will need to register for Missouri Sales Tax with the Department of Revenue.

Opening a Business Bank Account and Credit Card

Once you have your EIN, it is wise to open both a business bank account and a business credit card. This allows you to track the business assets, profits, and costs much easier. It also separated your personal accounts from the business ones and makes it easier to file tax papers down the road.

The business accounts allow the business to build its credit history that is distinct and separate from your own. This allows others, like investors and banks, to see that your business is in good standing financially.

If You Are Selling Taxable Goods and Services in Missouri

If you are selling anything through the LLC, then you will need to obtain and register for Missouri Sales Tax. You also should start your business with an appropriate accounting software in place. This will allow you to keep your records and paperwork organized and in good order.

Do I Need Business Licenses and Permits?

Operating your LCC legally means that you need to comply with the laws and regulations that are set forth by the state and federal governments. Local municipalities also have their own rules when it comes to LLCs. You will need permits. A few examples of ones that may need to acquire include building and health permits.

You can find information online about permit and other regulations. The Small Business Administration is a great resource to use. Missouri’s online business portal and websites set up by the Chamber of Commerce can provide you with essential information, too.

Professional services are available to help you search, located, and find the permits and regulations that you need to file. However, you should make sure to use a state or local service since permits, licenses, and regulations can vary greatly from state to state.

Sometimes you will need to take classes to gain permits or licenses, and the classes are often required, so do not be alarmed if you have to spend a bit of time in the classroom before you are provided with the necessary paperwork.

Local Business License and Zoning Requirements

In addition to state-level registrations, many Missouri cities and counties require local business licenses or permits. For example, businesses operating in Kansas City or St. Louis must obtain a city occupation license before starting operations.

Check with your local clerk’s office or Chamber of Commerce to verify zoning, building, and professional licensing requirements. Businesses in regulated industries such as food service, construction, or healthcare may need special state permits or certifications.

What Is Workers Compensation Insurance?

Workers compensation is a special form of insurance that allows employees to receive money if they become injured on the job. It is often required for businesses that have any employees. However, the requirements vary by state.

What Is General Liability Insurance?

General liability insurance protects your business in the case of a lawsuit or injury. The insurance may or may not be required. Most states do not require you to hold or purchase it, but it is quite beneficial.

If you decide to hire any employees for your business, there will be some obligations that you must follow legally. A few examples include:

  • Making sure employees can work in the U.S. legally
  • Filing paperwork to declare new employees with the state
  • Buying and keeping workers compensation insurance
  • Keeping taxes out of paychecks
  • Putting up posters that inform employees of their rights and your compliance as an employer
  • Paying employees in designated increments according to contracts

File Articles of Organization

Once you have come up with a name for your LLC that is considered eligible by the state of Missouri, you can file paperwork to reserve the name with the Missouri Secretary of State office. You can reserve the name for a total of 60 days, and you can renew if you need to for additional time.

When you reserve the name, you will need to pay a fee for holding it. The fee is $25.

Once the name is reserved and you are ready to form the business, you will need to draft papers that are called the Articles of Organization. The papers need to include a few things, including the name and address. Also, the purpose of the business in relation to the state of Missouri must be supplied and so must the name and address of the registered agent.

Some LLCs will only be set up for a short period of time. For this reason, the articles must include the duration period of the business and whether this is an open timeframe or not. The article paperwork can be either filed online or through the mail with the Secretary of State office.

Keep in mind that online filings are a bit cheaper and will cost $50. The traditional paper ones cost $105.

Prepare an Operating Agreement

As previously mentioned, you will need to assign a registered agent who lives in the state of Missouri. You also should draft an operating agreement. It is a document that shows who is involved as a member of the business and who will run it. Also, how the business is run should be included in the documentation.

The agreement is not required in all states, and Missouri specifically does not require the drafting of the agreement. However, it is helpful to have a drafted piece of paper that outlines the business specifics. The state does recognize such a document as a governing document.

Regulatory Requirements

To ensure that your business remains in good standing, you will need to file an annual report either online or through the mail. To complete the filing, you will need some information for the articles of organization. For example, the business charter number is needed.

The document must include an email address where the Missouri Secretary of State can reach you. There is a small fee associated with filing the annual report. Fees are also charged if the paperwork is late. You can expect a $15 fee for each month that the report is not filed.

There are some other important obligations that you need to follow like paying state taxes. If you do not, then you may be charged with fines or the LLC may be broken apart. Licenses and permits must be kept up to date, and you also must respond to paperwork in a timely manner. This is one reason why a registered agent is required when you start your LLC.

Some LLCs decide to use registered agent services, and this may be a good choice. The services often keep documents on hand, send copies to you, and understand who to contact if paperwork needs to be sent back to the state in a quick manner.

Missouri LLC Annual Obligations and Compliance

Unlike many states, Missouri does not require LLCs to file annual reports, reducing your ongoing administrative burden. However, you must still maintain compliance by:

  • Keeping your registered agent active and up-to-date
  • Paying all applicable state and local taxes
  • Maintaining accurate business records and minutes
  • Renewing professional licenses, if applicable

If your LLC fails to meet its obligations, the state may issue administrative dissolution, which can only be reversed by reinstatement and additional fees.

Foreign LLCs Doing Business in Missouri

If you have decided to start your LLC in Missouri and you also do business in other states, then you will need to set up a foreign LLC. The paperwork is similar to creating the LLC, and you will need to file and register as a foreign LLC in the state of Missouri. The document must show that you already have a business in good standing, and you must pay a filing fee of $105, depending on whether or not you decide to register online or through the mail.

Even if you have a registered agent, you will need to appoint another one. Locate an individual who is living in the state of Missouri.  You will then need to complete an Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company.

Expanding or Operating Across State Lines

If your LLC is based outside Missouri but conducts business within the state—such as maintaining a physical office or hiring local employees—you must register as a foreign LLC. File an Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company and include a Certificate of Good Standing from your home state, issued within 60 days.

Foreign LLCs must also appoint a Missouri registered agent and maintain good standing in both states to avoid penalties or revocation of operating privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does it cost to form an LLC in Missouri? Online filings cost $50, while paper filings cost $105. Optional name reservations are $25 for 60 days.

2. How long does it take to start an LLC in Missouri? Online filings are processed within 1–2 business days. Mail filings may take up to two weeks.

3. Does Missouri require annual reports for LLCs? No. Missouri is one of the few states that does not require LLC annual reports, lowering ongoing compliance costs.

4. Can one person own an LLC in Missouri? Yes, Missouri allows single-member LLCs, giving solo entrepreneurs the same liability protection as multi-member entities.

5. What taxes will my Missouri LLC owe? LLCs pay state income taxes through members’ personal returns, and may owe sales, use, and employment taxes depending on their business activities.

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