How to Start an LLC in New York (2026): Cost, Steps & Timeline
Forming an LLC in New York costs $200 in state filing fees, paid to the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations. Processing takes about 7 business days for standard processing; online filings can be faster. FilingsHQ prepares and files everything for $0 in service fees — you pay only the state fee.
What a New York LLC costs
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee | $200 | Paid to the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations; required |
| Expedited processing | Varies | $25 for 24-hour expedited processing |
| Biennial Statement | $9 | Every two years, in your anniversary month |
| Publication requirement | Varies by county | See details below |
| Registered agent | $0–$199/yr | Free if you serve as your own; $199/yr with FilingsHQ |
| FilingsHQ service fee | $0 | Starter package — preparation, review, and submission included |
Answer a few questions; we prepare, review, and file with the state.
Step-by-step: forming your New York LLC
1. Choose a name
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing New York businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “L.L.C.”. Check availability using the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations’s business search before you file — a rejected name means starting over.
2. Appoint a registered agent
New York requires every LLC to name a registered agent: a person or company with a physical street address in the state (no P.O. boxes) available during business hours to receive legal documents. You can be your own agent, but your address becomes public record — many owners use a professional service to keep their home address private.
3. File the Articles of Organization
The formation document in New York is the Articles of Organization, filed with the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations (online via NY Business Express). The filing fee is $200. About 7 business days for standard processing; online filings can be faster. $25 for 24-hour expedited processing.
4. Get an EIN
An Employer Identification Number is your LLC’s federal tax ID — you’ll need it to open a business bank account and hire employees. The IRS issues EINs for free at irs.gov; FilingsHQ’s Pro and Premium packages handle the application for you.
5. Create an operating agreement
New York doesn’t require you to file an operating agreement, but every LLC should have one — it documents ownership, profit splits, and what happens if a member leaves. Banks and investors routinely ask for it.
6. Stay compliant
File your biennial statement ($9) — due every two years, in your anniversary month. Missing it can lead to late fees or administrative dissolution.
New York specifics to know
Publication requirement: New York requires new LLCs to publish notice of formation in two newspapers (one daily, one weekly) designated by the county clerk for six consecutive weeks, then file a Certificate of Publication ($50). Publication costs vary widely by county — from around $300 upstate to $1,000+ in New York City.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in New York?
The New York state filing fee is $200. With FilingsHQ's Starter package the service fee is $0, so $200 is the total to form your LLC. Ongoing costs: Biennial Statement — $9.
How long does it take to form an LLC in New York?
About 7 business days for standard processing; online filings can be faster. $25 for 24-hour expedited processing.
Do I need a registered agent in New York?
Yes. Every New York LLC must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and government documents. You can serve as your own agent, appoint someone you know, or use a professional service like FilingsHQ ($199/yr).
Does New York require an annual report?
Yes. Biennial Statement: $9, due every two years, in your anniversary month.
Does New York have a publication requirement?
New York requires new LLCs to publish notice of formation in two newspapers (one daily, one weekly) designated by the county clerk for six consecutive weeks, then file a Certificate of Publication ($50). Publication costs vary widely by county — from around $300 upstate to $1,000+ in New York City.
Where do I file my LLC in New York?
LLC formations in New York are filed with the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations, using the Articles of Organization. Online filings go through NY Business Express. FilingsHQ prepares and submits this filing for you.
New York LLC for $0 + the $200 state fee. Every cost shown before you pay.
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FilingsHQ is a private document filing service, not a law firm, and does not provide legal or tax advice. Fees and processing times are set by the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations and may change — always confirm current figures with the state. Last verified July 2026.