How Much Does an LLC Cost in Virginia? A Simple 2025 Guide

The Main Event: Mandatory Virginia State Fees

These are the costs you can't avoid. They are paid directly to the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC).

1. Articles of Organization Filing Fee: $100

This is the one-time fee to officially create your LLC. To do this, you must file a document called the Articles of Organization, which acts as your business's birth certificate.

• Fee: $100
• Payment: Paid once to the Virginia SCC when you first form your LLC.
• Pro Tip: Filing online through the SCC Clerk's Information System (CIS) is the fastest and most efficient method. You can have your LLC approved in just a day or two.

Once the state processes this filing and your payment, your LLC is officially open for business!

2. Annual Registration Fee: $50

This isn't a one-and-done deal. To keep your LLC active and in good standing, you must pay an Annual Registration fee every single year.

• Fee: $50
• When It's Due: Every year by the last day of your LLC's "anniversary month" (the month it was created).
• Heads Up! Don't forget this! If you're late, the state will hit you with a $25 late penalty. If you neglect it for too long, the SCC can administratively cancel your LLC. Set a calendar reminder now!

So, for your first year, you're looking at a minimum cost of $100. For every year after that, it's $50.

Potential & Optional LLC Costs in Virginia

Beyond the mandatory fees, you might encounter other expenses. These aren't required for everyone, but they are very common.

Registered Agent Service: $0 - $150+ per year

Virginia law requires every LLC to have a registered agent. This is a designated person or company that agrees to receive official legal documents and state notices for your business.

• Option 1: Be Your Own Agent ($0): If you're a Virginia resident with a physical street address (no P.O. Boxes), you can serve as your own agent. It's free, but your address becomes public record, and you must be available during all business hours.
• Option 2: Hire a Commercial Registered Agent ($100 - $150/year): Many entrepreneurs choose this option for privacy and peace of mind. A professional service handles all your legal mail, ensuring you never miss a critical notice.

Fictitious Name (DBA) Certificate: $10

If you plan to operate your business under a cool brand name that's different from your formal LLC name (e.g., your LLC is "Tidewater Solutions LLC," but you run "Virginia Beach Web Design"), you need to file for a Fictitious Name, also known as a DBA.

• Fee: $10
• Process: This is a simple one-time filing with the Virginia SCC.

Other Potential Expenses to Consider:

• LLC Formation Services: Don't want to deal with the paperwork yourself? You can hire a service to file everything for you. While big names like ZenBusiness and Bizee offer comprehensive packages, a more direct service like Genie LLC is great if you just want a fast, simple filing without confusing upsells.
• Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on your industry and your specific city or county in Virginia, you may need local business licenses to operate. Costs for these vary widely.
• Certified Copies: If you need an official, certified copy of your formation documents (for opening a bank account, for example), the state charges $6 per document.

Virginia LLC Fee: The Bottom Line

Let's recap the costs to get your Virginia LLC off the ground.