The Certificate of Formation fee is $180, plus an online processing fee when filed online. Expedited service adds $100 and is generally processed within three working days. The initial report is free when filed with the certificate. A deferred initial report costs $10 and is due within 120 days.
Official sourceWhat does Washington charge to form and maintain an LLC?
| Formation document and method | File a Certificate of Formation with the Secretary of State Corporations and Charities Division, online or by mail. The filing designates a registered agent with an email address and a principal office. |
|---|---|
| Formation charges | The Certificate of Formation fee is $180, plus an online processing fee when filed online. Expedited service adds $100 and is generally processed within three working days. The initial report is free when filed with the certificate. A deferred initial report costs $10 and is due within 120 days. |
| Recurring filing | An LLC files a $70 annual report. A report filed after the due date adds a $25 delinquency fee, which makes $95. |
| First and later due dates | The annual report is due by the last day of the month in which the LLC formed, every year. You can file it up to 180 days before that date. A new LLC also files an initial report within 120 days, or with the certificate at no charge. |
| Registered agent and office | Every Washington LLC must name a registered agent who consents to serve. The agent can be a commercial registered agent or a noncommercial agent, meaning an individual or business with a physical Washington street address. Post office boxes and private mailboxes do not qualify. The agent's email address is required. |
| Taxes and other costs | The $70 report is not a tax. The Department of Revenue charges a $50 processing fee to open a business license and $5 on annual renewal, plus endorsement fees. Washington taxes, city licenses, payroll accounts and agent service fees depend on the business and are outside the state entity filing subtotal. |
When does the first Washington LLC report fall due?
The annual report is due by the last day of the month in which the LLC formed, every year. You can file it up to 180 days before that date. A new LLC also files an initial report within 120 days, or with the certificate at no charge.
An LLC files a $70 annual report. A report filed after the due date adds a $25 delinquency fee, which makes $95.
Who can be the Washington registered agent?
Every Washington LLC must name a registered agent who consents to serve. The agent can be a commercial registered agent or a noncommercial agent, meaning an individual or business with a physical Washington street address. Post office boxes and private mailboxes do not qualify. The agent's email address is required.
What comes after the LLC filing?
Save the filed certificate, sign an operating agreement and get an EIN when needed. Check whether the business needs a Washington business license, review city licenses, and calendar the annual report for the formation month.
Use the EIN guide for founders without an SSN if it fits your situation. An EIN does not replace state tax registration.
Which costs are outside the state filing fees?
The $70 report is not a tax. The Department of Revenue charges a $50 processing fee to open a business license and $5 on annual renewal, plus endorsement fees. Washington taxes, city licenses, payroll accounts and agent service fees depend on the business and are outside the state entity filing subtotal.
Compare the known state charges in the calculator and the 50-state and DC fee table. If the business works elsewhere, review when another state can require registration before choosing a formation state.
Which official sources support these figures?
- Secretary of State LLC filings and fees - reviewed October 1, 2026
- Annual report online instructions - reviewed October 1, 2026
- Fee schedule and expedited service - reviewed October 1, 2026
- Start an LLC online instructions - reviewed October 1, 2026
- RCW 23.95.415 registered agent - reviewed October 1, 2026
- Department of Revenue business license fees - reviewed October 1, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Washington?
The Certificate of Formation costs $180, plus an online processing fee when filed online. Expedited service adds $100.
When is the Washington LLC annual report due?
By the last day of the month in which the LLC formed, every year. It can be filed up to 180 days early.
What is the Washington initial report?
A filing that records the principal office and governors. It is free with the certificate, or $10 if filed later within 120 days.
What is the Washington late fee for the annual report?
A delinquent LLC pays the $70 report fee plus a $25 delinquency fee, for $95.
Can I be my own registered agent in Washington?
Yes, if you consent and have a physical Washington street address. A commercial registered agent is the other option. PO boxes do not qualify.
Official sources reviewed October 1, 2026. This guide covers an ordinary domestic LLC, not a personal legal or tax ruling. Government charges can change.