How to Start an LLC in Wyoming (Step-by-Step Guide)
Starting a new company can feel intimidating, especially for new entrepreneurs. In Wyoming specifically, the requirements to form a Wyoming LLC can seem complicated. Fortunately, this guide is here to help.
A limited liability company (LLC) is a business structure that is very popular for entrepreneurs. It helps shield the owners from liability, providing asset protection in the case of a lawsuit or legal issue. It provides much more legal protection than a sole proprietorship, and it’s a bit easier to form than a corporation or S-corp.
In the article below, we will explain how to form an LLC in Wyoming, while satisfying all the necessary state requirements for small businesses.
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Forming an LLC in Wyoming requires filing Articles of Organization with the Wyoming Secretary of State and paying a $100 filing fee ($103.75 online with convenience fee). Online filings are typically processed within 1-3 business days.
Wyoming is widely considered one of the best states for LLC formation — there’s no personal income tax, no corporate income tax, strong asset protection laws, and low filing fees. Follow these steps to start your Wyoming LLC in 2026.
How to Start an LLC in Wyoming (6 Steps)
Step 1: Name Your Wyoming LLC
Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other business names registered in Wyoming. The name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
Search the Wyoming Secretary of State business name database to check availability. Wyoming does not offer a formal name reservation for LLCs — your name is secured when you file your Articles of Organization.
Wyoming naming rules:
- Must be distinguishable from any existing business entity registered in Wyoming
- Cannot include words implying the LLC is a bank, insurance company, or government entity without proper authorization
- Must contain an LLC designator (“Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”)
- Cannot use restricted words without meeting additional requirements
Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent
Wyoming requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a physical street address in Wyoming. The registered agent receives legal documents, service of process, and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC.
You can serve as your own registered agent (if you have a Wyoming address), or use a professional service. Our top recommendation is Northwest Registered Agent ($39/year), which also handles LLC formation for $39 + the $100 state fee.
Step 3: File Your Articles of Organization
File your Articles of Organization with the Wyoming Secretary of State. You can file online through the WyoBiz online filing system or by mail.
Filing details:
- Filing fee: $100 (plus $3.75 convenience fee for online filings)
- Online filing: WyoBiz portal (recommended — faster processing)
- Processing time: 1-3 business days (online), approximately 15 business days (mail)
Information required:
- LLC name
- Registered agent name and address
- Principal office address (mailing address)
- Organizer name and address
- Duration (perpetual is standard)
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
Wyoming doesn’t legally require an operating agreement, but having one is strongly recommended. An operating agreement defines ownership percentages, management responsibilities, profit distribution, and procedures for major decisions.
Wyoming’s strong LLC statute provides good default protections, but an operating agreement lets you customize rules to fit your specific needs. Most banks also require an operating agreement to open a business bank account.
Step 5: Get an EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the IRS website. It’s free and takes about 15 minutes online. You need an EIN to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes.
Even single-member LLCs should obtain an EIN for privacy and to keep personal and business finances separate.
Step 6: File Your Annual Report
Wyoming LLCs must file an annual report each year with the Secretary of State. The annual report also serves as your license tax filing.
Annual report details:
- Due date: First day of the anniversary month of your LLC’s formation
- Filing fee: $60 minimum (higher if your LLC has more than $250,000 in Wyoming assets)
- Where to file: WyoBiz online portal
- Late penalty: Failure to file may result in administrative dissolution
For example, if you formed your LLC on May 15, your annual report is due each year on May 1.
Wyoming LLC Costs
| Cost | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization (filing fee) | $100 | One-time |
| Registered agent service | $39-$299 | Annual |
| Annual report / license tax | $60 (minimum) | Annual |
| EIN | $0 | One-time |
| Online convenience fee | $3.75 | One-time |
Total first-year cost: $100-$399 (depending on registered agent service). Wyoming’s combination of low filing fees and no income tax makes it one of the most affordable states to form and maintain an LLC. See our complete guide to LLC costs by state.
Wyoming LLC Taxes
Wyoming is one of the most tax-friendly states in the country. There is no personal income tax and no corporate income tax.
- State income tax: None — Wyoming has no personal income tax
- Corporate income tax: None
- Franchise tax: None (the annual report includes a license tax based on Wyoming assets, with a $60 minimum)
- Sales tax: 4% state rate, plus up to 2% in local taxes (combined rates range from 4% to 6%)
- Federal taxes: Standard pass-through taxation — profits pass to members’ personal federal returns
Wyoming’s lack of state income tax, combined with strong asset protection laws and privacy-friendly LLC statutes, makes it a popular choice for LLC formation — especially for non-residents and businesses that operate primarily online.
Annual Requirements for Wyoming LLCs
- Annual report: Due on the first day of the anniversary month of your LLC’s formation. The minimum fee is $60 (based on Wyoming assets). Filed online through the WyoBiz portal.
- License tax: Included with the annual report. Calculated at $60 or two-tenths of one mill on the dollar ($0.0002) based on Wyoming assets, whichever is greater.
- Maintain a registered agent: Must have a registered agent with a physical Wyoming address at all times.
- Sales tax filing: If applicable, collect and remit Wyoming sales tax according to your assigned filing frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Wyoming popular for LLC formation?
Wyoming is popular because it has no personal or corporate income tax, low filing fees ($100), strong asset protection laws, privacy-friendly statutes (members are not listed on public filings), and one of the most modern LLC acts in the country. It was actually the first state to create the LLC structure in 1977.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Wyoming?
Online filings through WyoBiz are typically processed within 1-3 business days. Mail filings take approximately 15 business days. Filing online is recommended for fastest processing.
Can I form a Wyoming LLC if I live in another state?
Yes. Wyoming is one of the most popular states for non-resident LLC formation. You’ll need a registered agent with a physical address in Wyoming. If you conduct business in your home state, you’ll likely need to register as a foreign LLC there as well. See our how to start an LLC guide for more on choosing the right state.
Does Wyoming require an operating agreement?
No, Wyoming does not legally require an operating agreement. However, we strongly recommend creating one to establish clear ownership, management, and profit-sharing rules. It helps reinforce the legal separation between you and your LLC and is required by most banks to open a business account.
What is the Wyoming LLC annual report fee?
The minimum annual report fee is $60. If your LLC has more than $250,000 in assets located in Wyoming, the fee is calculated at two-tenths of one mill ($0.0002) per dollar of Wyoming assets. Most small LLCs pay the $60 minimum. The annual report is due on the first day of the anniversary month of your LLC’s formation.
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