Disclaimer: I am not an attorney or CPA and this web page is in no way intended to convey legal advice. By continuing to use this website you agree to our terms of service. Please consult with your own attorney and accountant before taking these four steps below.

1. Create your LLC at the Washington Secretary of State website.

Go to www.sos.wa.gov select Corporations, Start a Business, LLC, File Online – or simply follow this link.

The cost for filing online is $200.

You will need to know the desired name for your business, along with two alternate business names.

In addition you will need the contact information for your registered agent.

2. Sign up with your registered agent.

In a nutshell, your registered agent is someone who accepts documents on behalf of your business.

We use Washington Registered Agent and have been pleased with their services.

Their cost is $65/year.

3. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

The cost is free!

Apply online at irs.gov.

You will need this number if you have a multi-member LLC, are an employer, or wish to open a bank account in the name of your business.

4. Create an Operating Agreement for your LLC.

This is the legal document that specifies who will be the members (owners) of your LLC. It isn’t required by Washington law, but it is probably a smart idea for you to go ahead and do this now so you will have it if you ever need it.

I found a super simple template online here but there are other options you can use.

That’s it!