Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) goes beyond filing LLC Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. LLCs also need tax status definition, bank accounts, and credit financing---all of which require additional documentation.

Getting Started with the State

Most state offices only require (Insert Reference 1 here) an LLC Articles of Organization. This document outlines the business name, its general purpose, ownership interests, and member voting rights. It also lists a Registered Agent, the person responsible for company license renewals. Articles of Organization are also known as a Certificate of Organization or Certificate of Formation. Note: While most states will recommend a signed LLC Operating Agreement, only the LLC Articles of Organization are required for filing.

Getting started with the IRS

LLCs can elect a corporate, partnership, or sole proprietorship filing status.

Getting Started With the Bank

Banks require much more documentation. New business accounts often require business license copies, Articles of Organization, business tax ID numbers (EIN), and the signed LLC Operating Agreement.

What is an LLC Operating Agreement?

An LLC Operating Agreement clarifies each LLC owner's rights, debt responsibilities and profit percentages. It is designed to minimize management and financial misunderstandings.

Business Loans

Some lenders also ask for an LLC Borrowing Resolution. This document gives the company legal permission to borrow money and must be signed by every LLC member.

Source:

Bankrate.com: Starting a business? Start here with state and local resources

IRS.gov: Form 8832 Entity Classification Selection

NOLO.com: The LLC Operating Agreement

More Information:

Sample Articles of Organization document

Creating the LLC Operating Agreement