How to Form an LLC in Arizona

Step-by-step guide to forming an LLC in Arizona: filing fee $50, annual costs, registered agent, and state-specific requirements.

Why form an LLC in Arizona

If you want to know how to form an LLC in Arizona, the process is fast and inexpensive. The state charges a $50 filing fee for the Articles of Organization, and there is no annual franchise tax and no annual report for most LLCs. New LLCs must also pay a one-time publication fee of $50 for a notice in a county newspaper. An LLC provides personal liability protection and pass-through taxation, making it one of the most popular business structures for new Arizona companies. The process takes only a few days from start to finish, and you can complete every step without a lawyer.

Step 1: Choose a business name

Your Arizona LLC name must be distinguishable from other registered names and must include "Limited Liability Company" or an approved abbreviation such as "LLC." You can search the Arizona Corporation Commission database to check availability. Reserving a name costs $10 and holds it for 120 days. Avoid words that imply a different business type unless you hold the appropriate license.

Step 2: Appoint a registered agent

Every Arizona LLC must have a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. The agent accepts legal documents and official mail on behalf of the business. You can serve as your own agent, but many owners use a professional registered agent service to keep their home address private and ensure documents are handled promptly.

Step 3: File the Articles of Organization and publish the notice

The core filing is the Articles of Organization, submitted online or by mail to the Arizona Corporation Commission. The filing fee is $50. You will provide the LLC name, registered agent details, and the principal office address. Online filings are typically approved within a few business days. Once approved, your LLC legally exists and can begin operating.

Within 60 days of formation, your Arizona LLC must publish a notice of formation in a newspaper in the county where the LLC is located. The one-time publication fee is $50. After the notice runs, you file proof of publication with the Arizona Corporation Commission. This step is unique to Arizona and is easy to overlook, so plan for it when you budget your formation costs.

Step 4: Draft an operating agreement and get an EIN

Arizona does not require an operating agreement, but it is strongly recommended. This document defines ownership percentages, voting rights, profit distribution, and management duties. A well-drafted operating agreement prevents disputes between members. Most Arizona LLCs also need an EIN from the IRS to open a business bank account and file taxes. A business bank account keeps personal and business money separate, which is essential for preserving your liability protection.

Arizona LLC costs and ongoing requirements

The total cost to start an LLC in Arizona is $50 for the state filing, plus a $50 one-time publication fee for the county newspaper notice. Optional costs include name reservation and registered agent fees. There is no annual franchise tax and no annual report for most LLCs. Keep a calendar reminder for any filing deadlines so your LLC stays in good standing with the state. Compare these figures with other states in our LLC cost by state guide, and review the steps in our form an LLC walkthrough.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Arizona?

The filing fee to form an LLC in Arizona is $50 for the Articles of Organization. New LLCs must also pay a one-time publication fee of $50 for a notice in a county newspaper. Optional costs include a $10 name reservation fee and the cost of a registered agent service. There is no annual franchise tax and no annual report for most LLCs. Most owners spend between $100 and $200 in the first year.

What is the Arizona LLC publication requirement?

Arizona requires every new LLC to publish a notice of formation in a newspaper in the county where the LLC is located. The notice must run within 60 days of formation, and the one-time publication fee is $50. After the notice runs, you file proof of publication with the Arizona Corporation Commission. This step is unique to Arizona and is easy to overlook, so plan for it when you budget your formation costs.

Does Arizona require an annual report for LLCs?

Arizona does not require LLCs to file an annual report, and there is no annual franchise tax for most LLCs. This means that after the initial $50 formation filing and the one-time publication fee, most Arizona LLCs have no recurring state obligations. You still need to keep your registered agent information current and file federal taxes, but there is no annual state filing to worry about.

Do I need a registered agent in Arizona?

Yes, every Arizona LLC must have a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. The agent must be available during business hours to accept legal documents and official mail. You can serve as your own registered agent, but many owners use a professional registered agent service to keep their home address private and ensure documents are never missed. The agent name and address appear on the Articles of Organization.