North Dakota LLC Name Search & Entity Availability
Verify legal availability against the North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop) database, review statutory requirements, and secure your brand across domains and social networks.
Scan Your Proposed North Dakota Business Name
Instant real-time checks across DNS domains, major social handles, and federal trademark databases.
North Dakota LLC Formation Cost & Fee Breakdown
Statutory fees and ongoing compliance requirements for North Dakota.
| Fee Type | Cost | Authority / Schedule | Mandatory? |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Filing Fee (Articles of Organization) | $135 | North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop) | Yes (One-time) |
| Annual / Biennial Compliance Fee | $50 annual report | Annual / Biennial Schedule | Yes (Recurring) |
| Registered Agent Service | $0 - $39/yr (Northwest) | Commercial Agent or Self | Yes (Required) |
| Federal EIN (Tax ID) | $0 (Free) | Internal Revenue Service (IRS) | Recommended |
North Dakota LLC Naming Rules & Guidelines
Official statutory naming constraints administered by the North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop).
Must contain 'limited liability company', 'l.l.c.', or 'llc'.
How to Form an LLC in North Dakota (Step-by-Step)
Choose a Compliant North Dakota LLC Name
Your business name must contain a statutory designator such as "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company". It must be distinguishable from all other registered active entities on file with the North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop).
Appoint a Registered Agent in North Dakota
You must appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in North Dakota (P.O. Boxes are not permitted). The agent accepts service of process and official legal notices during standard business hours.
File Formation Documents & Pay $135
Submit your official Articles of Organization to the North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop). The standard state filing fee is $135 with an estimated processing time of 1-3 business days.
Draft an LLC Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement outlines internal governance, voting thresholds, equity percentages, and profit disbursements. Having an executed operating agreement protects corporate liability separation in court.
Obtain a Free Federal EIN from the IRS
Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) acts as your business's Federal Tax ID. It is required for business checking accounts, merchant services, and hiring staff.
Maintain Annual Compliance & Reports
Stay in continuous good standing with North Dakota by filing your required statutory reports: $50 annual report.
North Dakota LLC — Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers on cost, timing, naming rules, and compliance.
How much does it cost to form an LLC in North Dakota?
The North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop) charges a $135 filing fee for Articles of Organization. Most founders also budget for a registered agent and optional expedited processing.
How long does it take to get an LLC approved in North Dakota?
Standard processing time is 1-3 business days. Online filings are typically the fastest option.
What are the LLC naming requirements in North Dakota?
Must contain 'limited liability company', 'l.l.c.', or 'llc'.
Does North Dakota require a registered agent for an LLC?
Yes. North Dakota requires every LLC to maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in the state (P.O. boxes are not accepted) to receive legal documents during business hours.
What annual reports or fees does a North Dakota LLC owe?
Ongoing compliance costs $50 annual report. Missing the filing deadline can trigger late fees or administrative dissolution, so calendar it.
Where do I officially file my North Dakota LLC?
File directly with the North Dakota Secretary of State (FirstStop) through their official business entity portal. Always verify name availability in the state registry before filing.