How to register an LLC in New York
How to register an LLC in New York: one of the first and most important steps is choosing the right legal structure. Many entrepreneurs go with an LLC (Limited Liability Company) for its flexibility and legal protection. And if you’re looking to optimize your tax situation, you might consider electing S-Corp status.
Read also: Net Salary in New York — What’s Left After Taxes.
How to register an LLC in New York
This guide covers how to register an LLC in New York and elect S-Corp status — from naming your business to filing IRS forms and setting up accounting.
Perfect for new founders or those restructuring.
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Choose a Name for Your LLC
- The name must be unique in New York state.
- Check availability here: NYS Business Entity Search.
Example: Roma Ecom LLC.
Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent
This is a person or company that will receive legal documents for your LLC.
You can act as your own agent (if you have a physical address in NY) or use a service such as:
Prices range from $39–$125/year.
Step 3: File New York State’s organizational articles
Go online to: NY Business Express.
The filing cost is $200.
Step 4: Finish the publication requirement
You have 120 days from starting your LLC to:
- Post a notice in two strong newspapers — one daily, one weekly—in the county where your LLC is housed.
- You will get Affidavits of Publication upon publication, which you then submit with a Certificate of Publication to the state.
Usually between $100 and $300, you can contract this out to your registered agent or a service.
Step 5: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
Request it online for free: EIN Application for Taxes.
Opening a company bank account and submitting taxes depend on EIN.
Step 6: Open a business bank account
To open the account, use your operating agreement, articles of organization, and EIN.
Among better choices are Chase, Bank of America, Mercury, Relay, and others.
Read also: What is the best bank in New York.
Step 7: File Form 2553 to Elect S-Corp Tax Status
Form: IRS Form 2553.
Deadline: Within 75 days of establishing your LLC or by March 15 of the next year should you wish to elect S-Corp status for the calendar year.
Step 8: Create an Operating Agreement
It is highly advised but not necessary to be reported to the state.
It lays out the guidelines for running the LLC, sharing earnings, etc.
You might pay a lawyer or utilize a template ($0–$100).
Step 9: Register for Sales Tax (if applicable)
You have to register to collect Sales Tax if you have sales nexus in NY or another state and are selling physical products.
Work through the New York State Tax Department.
Step 10: Organize Your Accounting
Use Bench, Xero, QuickBooks, or pay an accountant.
Payroll (Gusto, ADP, etc.) will allow you, as an S-Corp, pay yourself a “reasonable salary”.
Read also: Salaries in New York: Overview.
Recommended Services
| Purpose | Service | Price |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Registration + Agent + Publication | ZenBusiness / Northwest / Incfile | $49–$349 |
| S-Corp Accounting | Bench + Gusto | From $200/month |
| EIN Application | IRS directly | Free |
| Business Bank Account | Mercury / Relay | Free |
Read also: New York income tax calculator.
