Forming an LLC in Washington in Washington involves various costs and considerations. LLCs offer numerous benefits, including limited liability for owners and flexibility in management. However, understanding the requirements and procedures, such as drafting an operating agreement and filing an annual report, is important. Additionally, navigating taxes and ensuring privacy, possibly through an anonymous LLC, requires careful planning. This article provides insights into the process of starting an LLC in Washington, including how to search for existing businesses, maintain privacy, and access essential documents. Whether you're exploring name availability or need to contact a registered agent, understanding the details of the process is essential.
A limited liability company (LLC) is a business structure in the United States whereby the owners are not personally liable for the company's debts or liabilities. Limited liability companies are hybrid entities that combine the characteristics of a corporation with those of a partnership or sole proprietorship.
You can easily search for a business registered in Washington. Through the office of the secretary of state website you can search for various businesses including nonprofit corporations, limited partnerships (LPs), LLCs, and other miscellaneous businesses. This information is available here through their Washington Corporations and Charities Filing System. Make sure you input the business name into the corporation search. There are also search engines available for charities, fundraisers, trusts, and trademarks below the business search. You may also perform an advanced business search through the same link and narrow your search with the business name, type, status, expiration date, and even look up a registered agent.
This business search is a way to contact a business or find out other information you need. You may also desire to search for a company to confirm your information about the business. You can even look up your business to see what is available to the public. It's also a great way to determine whether your desired business name while filing for one is already taken and, therefore, unavailable. Some other reasons for performing a business search are listed below.
Information that is available through the New York business search includes the following:
Washington is not one of the states that allows anonymous LLC filing directly. That is, you cannot withhold member or manager information. There are ways to get around this. One such way is by filing for two LLCs and having them listed as each other’s owners. That is, you file LLC one’s initial report and list LLC two as the member. Then you file LLC two’s initial report and can then list LLC one as the member. Each year, annual renewals will be filed for both companies and with the same information provided. When you list your registered agent and executor, it is also important not to list yourself in these roles as you will then be required to provide your address and name.
To obtain documents on file with the secretary of state, simply click on “filing history” after selecting the business you are interested in. Then you can view the list of documents available on the site. It will download and you can obtain the documentation for free.
Contact the Office of the Secretary of State at corps@sos.wa.gov or call them at 360-725-0377.