How to Start an LLC in Georgia (Step-by-Step Guide)

Avatar photo
by LLC.org Team
Last updated: February 18th, 2026
We might receive compensation from the companies whose products we review. We are independently owned and the opinions here are our own.
5\5
  • Same-day processing
  • Free registered agent service for one year
  • Free domain, website, email and phone
  • Expert support from real people
Visit Northwestarrow
Top choice
5\5
  • Starts at $0 plus state fees
  • 100% accuracy guarantee and worry-free compliance
  • Personalized dashboard
Visit ZenBusinessarrow
4.9\5
  • Starts at $0 plus state fees
  • Publicly Traded on the NASDAQ
  • trusted by 4M+ business owners
  • Most tools, support, and guidance for your business
  • Attorney guidance at an affordable price
Visit LegalZoomarrow

When setting off on any new venture, the first few steps can feel the most intimidating. This is certainly true for starting a business, as just the actual process of forming that business can feel complex. If you’re looking to start an LLC in Georgia, this guide will walk you through the process.

LLC stands for limited liability company. This type of business entity is very popular in Georgia (and nationwide), mostly because of the liability protection it offers. Put simply, when you own an LLC, your personal assets are safe from liability associated with your business. If your company gets sued, your personal assets are generally protected. Plus, LLCs are typically easier to form and maintain, compared to corporations.

In Georgia, the LLC formation process is handled by the Georgia Corporations Division. The basics are explained in this guide on Georgia.gov, but the guide below goes much more in-depth. For entrepreneurs looking to form an LLC in Georgia, this guide walks you through the step-by-step process that you should follow. Let’s get started!

Jump to

Forming an LLC in Georgia requires filing Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State and paying a $100 filing fee. Georgia also requires a publication notice in your county’s legal newspaper.

Follow these steps to start your Georgia LLC in 2026.

How to Start an LLC in Georgia (7 Steps)

Step 1: Name Your Georgia LLC

Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other Georgia entities. The name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”

Search the Georgia Secretary of State business search to check availability. Name reservation is available for 30 days for $25.

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

Georgia requires a registered agent with a physical Georgia address. Our recommendation: Northwest Registered Agent ($39/year).

Step 3: File Articles of Organization

File online through the Georgia Corporations Division.

  • Filing fee: $100
  • Processing time: 7-10 business days (online)

Step 4: Publish a Notice of Formation

Georgia requires new LLCs to publish a notice of formation in the county’s designated legal newspaper once a week for two consecutive weeks. This must be done within the first filing year. Cost: typically $40-$100.

Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement

Georgia doesn’t legally require an operating agreement, but you should have one for liability protection and banking.

Step 6: Get an EIN

Apply for a free EIN from the IRS.

Step 7: File Your Annual Registration

Georgia requires an annual registration filed online between January 1 and April 1 each year. Fee: $50.

Georgia LLC Costs

Cost Amount Frequency
Articles of Organization $100 One-time
Publication notice $40-$100 One-time
Annual Registration $50 Annual
Registered agent service $39-$299 Annual
EIN $0 One-time

Total first-year cost: $140-$499. Ongoing annual cost: $89-$349. See our LLC costs by state guide.

Georgia LLC Taxes

  • State income tax: 5.49% flat rate (reduced from 5.75% in 2024)
  • Sales tax: 4% state rate, plus local taxes (typically 7-9% total)
  • Federal taxes: Standard pass-through taxation

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Georgia require publication for LLCs?

Yes. You must publish a notice of formation in your county’s designated legal newspaper for two consecutive weeks. This typically costs $40-$100 depending on the county.

When is Georgia’s annual registration due?

The annual registration must be filed between January 1 and April 1 each year. Fee: $50. Late filing can result in administrative dissolution.

Start an LLC in Another State

Click your state below for a step-by-step formation guide with filing fees, requirements, and timelines.

Related posts

Find out how to start an LLC in your state

Click on the state below to get started