How to Form an LLC in Nevada

Step 1: Choose a Name That Meets Nevada's Rules

Your Nevada LLC name must contain "Limited-Liability Company," "Limited Company," or "Limited," or an abbreviation such as "LLC," "L.L.C.," or "LC," and must be distinguishable from every other name on file with the Secretary of State under NRS 86.171. Search the Business Entity Search before filing. If you're not ready to file, reserve an available name for $25; the reservation lasts 90 days.

Step 2: Name a Registered Agent

Your registered agent must keep a physical Nevada street address for service of process, not a P.O. box, and can be a commercial registered agent listed with the Secretary of State or a noncommercial individual or entity. A member or manager who is a Nevada resident can serve as the LLC's noncommercial registered agent as long as they maintain a qualifying Nevada street address.

Step 3: File Articles of Organization, the Initial List, and the State Business License Together

File your Articles of Organization through SilverFlume, Nevada's Business Portal, for $75. Nevada requires you to file two more items at the same time: the Initial List of Managers or Managing Members for $150, and a State Business License for $200, bringing the mandatory starting cost to $425 before any registered agent fee. Standard online processing generally takes about 1 to 2 business days; a 24-hour expedite is available for $125 extra, with faster same-day and 1-hour tiers at higher fees.

Step 4: Get an EIN From the IRS

Once the Secretary of State approves your filing, apply for a free EIN directly from the IRS, usually issued immediately through the online application. Have your approved Nevada filing on hand, since the application asks for your LLC's exact legal name and formation date.

Step 5: Put an Operating Agreement in Place if You Want One

Nevada doesn't require an operating agreement by law. NRS Chapter 86 lets members adopt one, written or oral, to govern the LLC's internal affairs, but it's never filed with the state. Many owners still put one in writing, since banks and co-members often ask for it.

Step 6: File Your Annual List and Renew Your Business License Every Year

Every year, by the last day of your LLC's anniversary month, file the Annual List of Managers or Managing Members ($150) and renew your State Business License ($200) together through SilverFlume. A $75 late fee applies to a late Annual List, and a separate $100 late fee applies to a late Business License renewal; continued failure to file leads to default and eventual administrative revocation. If you'll sell taxable goods, register for a Sales and Use Tax Permit with the Nevada Department of Taxation for a one-time $15 fee per location. For the full picture of Nevada's fees and the Commerce Tax threshold, see our Nevada LLC guide.

Budget for $425 at Formation, Not Just the $75 Filing Fee

Nevada's advertised Articles of Organization fee understates what you'll actually pay at formation, since the Initial List and State Business License are required alongside it, not optional add-ons. Plan for $425 in mandatory state fees before adding a registered agent service or any expedited processing.

No Income Tax Doesn't Mean No Ongoing State Cost

Nevada is often chosen for its lack of state income tax, but that doesn't make the LLC free to maintain. Between the Annual List, the Business License renewal, and potential late fees, Nevada's recurring costs are higher than several states that do have some form of income tax, so weigh the full picture, not income tax alone.

There's No Statewide DBA Registry

If you plan to operate under a different name than your LLC's legal name, Nevada has no statewide DBA registry. You file a Fictitious Firm Name certificate with the county clerk in each county where you do business instead, and fees vary by county.

Forming in Nevada Without Operating There Rarely Saves Money

If you don't live or do business in Nevada, forming your LLC there to take advantage of its tax structure usually means also registering as a foreign LLC back in your home state, which adds a second filing fee and a second registered agent requirement. This isn't tax advice; talk to a tax professional before choosing Nevada for reasons beyond simply operating a business there.