How to start an LLC in South Carolina
Forming an LLC in South Carolina costs $110 and online filings are typically approved in about 1–3 business days online. Here's the whole process, step by step.
Filing fee
$110
One-time, paid to the state
Approval time
about 1–3 business days online
Typical for online filings
Ongoing fee
$0 (no annual report)
What the state charges each year
Fees and processing times change — always confirm the current figures with the South Carolina Secretary of State before you file.
The 4 steps in South Carolina
Pick a name that works in South Carolina
Your name must be distinguishable from other South Carolina businesses and include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company.” Search the Secretary of State's business database first.
File the paperwork
You file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State, online or by mail. The filing fee is $110. 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 South Carolina 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.
With no annual report and a $110 filing fee, South Carolina is one of the cheapest states to keep an LLC running.
File directly with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Common questions about South Carolina LLCs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in South Carolina?
The South Carolina filing fee is $110, 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, South Carolina charges $0 (no annual report). Fees change over time, so confirm the current amount on the South Carolina Secretary of State website before you file.
How long does it take to get an LLC in South Carolina?
Online filings are typically approved in about 1–3 business days online, though times vary with the state's workload. Mail filings take longer. Check the South Carolina Secretary of State website for current processing times.
Do I need a registered agent in South Carolina?
Yes — every South Carolina 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 South Carolina require an annual report?
Most South Carolina LLCs don't file an annual report. The exception: if your LLC chooses to be taxed as an S corporation, it files an annual report with its state tax return.
Can I form my South Carolina LLC myself, without a service?
Yes. Filing directly with the South Carolina Secretary of State is straightforward: pick a name, submit the Articles of Organization online, and pay the $110 fee. A formation service is optional convenience, not a requirement.
Where to go next
Ready to make your South Carolina LLC official?
Grab the free checklist so nothing gets missed, or compare formation services.