LLC Documents You Actually Need to Start Your Business
Confused about what documents you need to form an LLC? Here's a clear, step-by-step guide to everything you'll need to file, open accounts, and stay compliant.
Start Your LLC for $49What Documents Are Required to Form an LLC?
When forming an LLC, you'll typically need the following core documents:
Articles of Organization
The official document filed with your state to create the LLC. Also called a Certificate of Formation in some states.
How to Start an LLCEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Issued by the IRS — it's required to open a business bank account, hire employees, or pay taxes.
How to Get an EIN for Your LLCOperating Agreement
Not always required, but highly recommended — even for single-member LLCs. Defines ownership, responsibilities, and operating procedures.
Do You Need an Operating Agreement?Optional But Helpful LLC Documents
Registered Agent Consent Form
Some states require this to confirm your registered agent has agreed to accept legal documents.
What Is a Registered Agent?LLC Membership Certificates
Optional for internal use, especially with multiple owners — can document ownership share.
Initial Resolutions
Internal notes for opening bank accounts or approving key actions — not legally required but useful for recordkeeping.
What You'll Need After Formation
Once your LLC is officially formed, you'll likely need:
- Your filed Articles of Organization
- Your EIN letter from the IRS
- Your Operating Agreement
- A business bank account
Why Most Founders Get Stuck
It's not the legal forms that trip people up — it's the messy process. Many sites try to upsell every document, and others don't tell you what you really need.
Genie Gives You All of It
Start With Genie gives you everything you need in one place:
- Step-by-step filing instructions for your state
- EIN setup help
- A free operating agreement
- A dashboard to keep everything organized
- No upsells, no delays
The fast, clean way to get your LLC documents done — with confidence.