How to start an LLC in Pennsylvania
Forming an LLC in Pennsylvania costs $125 and online filings are typically approved in about 1–2 weeks online. Here's the whole process, step by step.
Filing fee
$125
One-time, paid to the state
Approval time
about 1–2 weeks online
Typical for online filings
Ongoing fee
$7/yr
What the state charges each year
Fees and processing times change — always confirm the current figures with the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations before you file.
The 4 steps in Pennsylvania
Pick a name that works in Pennsylvania
Your name must be distinguishable from other Pennsylvania businesses and include a designator like “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.” Search the Department of State's business registry first.
File the paperwork
You file a Certificate of Organization (Pennsylvania's name for the Articles of Organization) with the Department of State's Bureau of Corporations, online through the Business One-Stop Hub or by mail. The filing fee is $125. Also write a simple operating agreement — it's free, and it keeps your liability protection clear.
Get your free EIN
Apply at IRS.gov and get your Employer Identification Number immediately, for free. You'll need it for taxes and your business bank account.
Open a business bank account
Bring your approved Articles of Organization, EIN, and operating agreement. Keeping business money separate is what makes the liability protection hold.
Optional: name a registered agent service
Every Pennsylvania LLC needs a registered agent with a physical address in the state. You can be your own for free — or pay a service to keep your address private. Learn how registered agents work.
Pennsylvania keeps ongoing costs low: the $7 annual report is one of the cheapest in the country. Two quirks to know — the formation document is called a Certificate of Organization, and instead of a registered agent you simply list a registered office address.
File directly with the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations.
Common questions about Pennsylvania LLCs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania filing fee is $125, paid once when you submit your Articles of Organization. Getting your EIN from the IRS is free, and you can be your own registered agent for free. Ongoing, Pennsylvania charges $7/yr. Fees change over time, so confirm the current amount on the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations website before you file.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Pennsylvania?
Online filings are typically approved in about 1–2 weeks online, though times vary with the state's workload. Mail filings take longer. Check the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations website for current processing times.
Do I need a registered agent in Pennsylvania?
Yes — every Pennsylvania LLC must list a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. You can be your own agent for free, or hire a commercial service (roughly $100–$150 a year) to keep your address off the public record.
Does Pennsylvania require an annual report?
Pennsylvania's annual report costs just $7 and is due by September 30 each year (this yearly report replaced the old every-10-years requirement in 2025) — file it online with the Department of State.
Can I form my Pennsylvania LLC myself, without a service?
Yes. Filing directly with the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations is straightforward: pick a name, submit the Articles of Organization online, and pay the $125 fee. A formation service is optional convenience, not a requirement.
Where to go next
Ready to make your Pennsylvania LLC official?
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