There are many advantages to being a limited liability company.An limited liability company can protect you from personal liability for the company's legal obligations.An limited liability company requires less paperwork.You can create an limited liability company in South Carolina with a few forms.Pick a business name and reserve it if necessary.The Articles of Organization should be filed with the Secretary of State.Tax IDs and business licenses are required before you can open your doors.
Step 1: You have to come up with an appropriate name.
Pick something that is memorable but also reminds people of your business.Don't use names that are too long.Megan's Massage is basic but boring.There is a wordy title for Megan's massage.It might be right.Make sure that you have the required designation in your name.You can use the abbreviations "L.C.," or "LC," as well as the words "Limited Liability Company" in your name.
Step 2: Find out if the name is available.
A name cannot be used if someone else is using it.Search the business name database at the Secretary of State's website.Check to see if the URL is available.You want the URL to be your business name if you create a website.If someone is already using your name, check by typing in different combinations.You can use websites such as Instant Domain Search.
Step 3: You should reserve your name.
If you pay $25, you can reserve a name for 120 days.You can complete the application at the Secretary of State's website.If you are ready to file your Articles of Organization, you don't need to reserve the name.Two copies of your completed form are required to be submitted to the Secretary of State.Make your check out to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Step 4: You need to register your trademark.
It's not necessary to register your trademark.If someone uses your name to sell goods or services, it can provide you with extra protection.The United States Patent and Trademark Office can be used to apply for a trademark.You can register your name and logo.As soon as you start using the name in connection with the sale of your goods or services, you have trademark rights.You can use registration as proof of your right to use the mark only in the country.
Step 5: You can download the form.
You can use the form provided by the Secretary of State.The form can be downloaded here: http://www.sos.sc.gov/forms/LLC/Domestic/ArticlesofOrganization.You can submit your articles of organization online at the state's Business One Stop website.You will have to create a user account.
Step 6: The requested information should be provided.
You can type into the form or print it out.Your agent can receive official service of process name and address of each organizers if you give them the name of your office location.
Step 7: You should submit your articles.
You have to submit two completed copies of the form along with a self-addressed stamped envelope.The filing fee is paid to the South Carolina Secretary of State.Corporate Filings is located at 1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 525 in Columbia, South Carolina.
Step 8: You should draft an operating agreement.
The operating agreement contains important information.Although it is not required, your business will benefit from having one.You should keep a copy at your primary business address.The information contained in a properly drafted operating agreement is as follows: members' percentage ownership in the company, their voting powers, and rules for daily management of the rules.
Step 9: Obtain an employer identification number.
You can apply for an employer identification number from the IRS website.If you do not have any employees, you can use your Social Security Number.If you have more than one member, you should get the EIN.
Step 10: You have to register with the state Department of Revenue.
If you have employees, you need a state tax ID.Register with the Department of Revenue.You can register at the MyDORWAY website.The registration process can be started by clicking on the green button.
Step 11: Business licenses are required.
Business licenses and permits are required before you can start your business.South Carolina has no statewide business license.You have to have a business license in all the cities where you conduct business.The South Carolina Business One Stop website can help you find what you need.
Step 12: Employees should be hired appropriately.
You need to take additional steps if you have employees.Obtain a Withholding number from the Department of Revenue.Unemployment insurance can be obtained from the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce.E-Verify can be used to verify employees' legal authorization to work.Form I-9 needs to be retained for each employee.The Department of Social Services requires new employees to be reported.