If you’re ready to formalize your business in the United States, registering with your state is one of the most important steps you’ll take. Setting up your LLC (or other legal structure) correctly from the beginning will give you peace of mind and legal protection.
This article is part of a complete Step by Step Guide called “How to Start Your Business in the United States.” To access it, click here.
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process through your Secretary of State’s office.
Step-by-Step: Registering Your Business with the State
1. Choose and Verify Your Business Name
– Decide on your official business name in alignment with your brand plan.
– Use your state’s name search tool (e.g., “Name Search” on Sunbiz for Florida) to ensure the name is available.
– Make sure it complies with state rules (not identical to existing businesses and includes “LLC” if applicable).
2. Access the Secretary of State’s Online Portal
– Go to your state’s official Secretary of State website.
– Example for Florida: Sunbiz Start a Business
– Create a user account or log in (some states allow submissions without an account, but having one helps track filings).
3. Complete the Registration Form
– Select the “Form LLC” option or equivalent (e.g., “Articles of Organization”).
– Fill in required fields:
- Legal business name
- Principal business address
- Purpose or business activity
- Duration (perpetual or fixed)
- Registered agent’s name and address
4. Designate a Registered Agent
– Choose an individual or service authorized to receive legal notices.
– They must have a physical address in the state (P.O. Boxes are not accepted).
– Include their contact info in the form.
5. Review and Pay the State Fee
– Check the exact filing fee for your business structure (usually between $50–$200).
– Choose a payment method (credit card, debit, or bank transfer).
– Submit the form and payment.
6. Download Your Certificate of Organization
– Once approved, you’ll receive an email or can download your “Certificate of Organization” or “Articles of Organization.”
– Save a copy in your official business records.
7. Fulfill Additional Requirements
– Publish a legal notice in a local newspaper (if required by your state).
– Apply for local business licenses or permits (city/county level).
– Register your DBA (“Doing Business As”) if your brand differs from the legal entity name.
8. Keep Your LLC in Good Standing
– Schedule your Annual Report (or Biennial Report) and pay ongoing state fees.
– Renew licenses and permits as required.
– Keep updated records and report any address or agent changes promptly.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your business will be officially registered and compliant. Next up: apply for your EIN (Employer Identification Number) and open your business bank account.
Structure Comparison Table
| Step | Sole Proprietorship (DBA) | LLC | Corporation (C Corp / S Corp) |
| 1. Name Search | Search “Fictitious Name” on Sunbiz | Search LLC name and confirm it includes “LLC” | Same as LLC, confirm with “Inc.” or “Corp.” |
| 2. Secretary of State | Use national SOS directory | Use Sunbiz “Start a Business” | Use Sunbiz “Start a Business” |
| 3. Complete Form | Register DBA/Fictitious Name | File “Articles of Organization” | File “Articles of Incorporation” with share information |
| 4. Registered Agent | Not required | Must appoint a registered agent with in-state address | Same requirements as LLC |
| 5. Pay State Fee | ~$50 (varies by county) | $50–$200 (varies by state) | $100–$300 (varies by state) |
| 6. Get Certificate | Download DBA license from portal | Download “Certificate of Organization” | Download “Certificate of Incorporation” |
| 7. Additional Requirements | Municipal/sector-specific licenses | Annual Report, license renewals | Maintain records, bylaws, and file Annual Reports |
State Links and Resources
- Fictitious Name Search (DBA) – Sunbiz
- LLC Name Search – Sunbiz
- National SOS Directory
- Sunbiz – Start a Business
- Register DBA on Sunbiz
- LLC Filing Forms – Sunbiz
- Corporation Filing Forms – Sunbiz
- Registered Agent Requirements – Sunbiz
- Sunbiz Fee Schedule
- Annual Report Filing – Sunbiz
- All SOS Portals by State
Ready to move forward?
Now that you’ve completed this step, you can either continue exploring the next article in our Start Your Business in the U.S. series or schedule a free consultation with our team. Whether you prefer to learn more at your own pace or want one-on-one guidance to move faster, we’re here to support you.
