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

Forming an LLC in Missouri requires filing Articles of Organization with the Missouri Secretary of State and paying a $50 filing fee online. The process takes about 3-5 business days for standard processing.

Follow these steps to start your Missouri LLC in 2026.

How to Start an LLC in Missouri (6 Steps)

Step 1: Name Your Missouri LLC

Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other business names registered in Missouri. The name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “Limited Company,” “LLC,” “LC,” “L.L.C.,” or “L.C.”

Search the Missouri Secretary of State business name database to check availability. You can also reserve a name for 60 days by filing an Application for Reservation of Name ($25 fee online).

Missouri naming rules:

• Must include an LLC designator (LLC, LC, L.L.C., L.C., Limited Liability Company, or Limited Company)
• Cannot be the same as or deceptively similar to an existing entity registered with the Secretary of State
• Cannot contain restricted words like “bank,” “insurance,” or “trust” without proper authorization

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

Missouri requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a physical street address in Missouri. The registered agent receives legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your LLC.

You can serve as your own registered agent (if you have a Missouri address), or use a professional service. Our top recommendation is Northwest Registered Agent ($39/year), which also handles LLC formation for $39 + the $50 state fee.

Step 3: File Your Articles of Organization

File Form LLC-1 (Articles of Organization) with the Missouri Secretary of State. You can file online through the Missouri Secretary of State online filing system or by mail.

Filing details:

• Filing fee: $50 (online) or $105 (mail)
• Online filing: Missouri Secretary of State Business Services (recommended — faster processing and lower fee)
• Processing time: 3-5 business days (online), 5-10 business days (mail)

Information required:

• LLC name
• Principal office address
• Registered agent name and address in Missouri
• Purpose of the LLC
• Whether the LLC is member-managed or manager-managed
• Name and address of each organizer
• Effective date (can be future-dated)

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

Missouri doesn’t legally require an operating agreement, but having one is strongly recommended. It establishes ownership structure, profit distribution, and management responsibilities — and it’s usually required 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.

Step 6: Register for Missouri Taxes

After forming your LLC, register with the Missouri Department of Revenue for applicable state taxes. You can register online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website or through the Missouri Business Portal.

Good news: Missouri doesn’t require LLCs to file annual reports or pay annual fees, making it one of the easiest and most affordable states for ongoing LLC maintenance.

Missouri LLC Costs

Total first-year cost: $50-$349 (depending on whether you use a registered agent service). Missouri is one of the most affordable states for both forming and maintaining an LLC. See our complete guide to LLC costs by state.

Missouri LLC Taxes

Missouri LLCs are treated as pass-through entities by default — profits flow through to members’ personal tax returns.

• State income tax: 2% to 4.95% (graduated individual income tax rates)
• Corporate income tax: 4% flat rate (only if you elect corporate taxation)
• No franchise tax: Missouri does not impose a franchise tax on LLCs
• Sales tax: 4.225% state rate, plus local taxes that can bring the total to over 10% in some areas
• Federal taxes: Standard pass-through taxation — profits pass to members’ personal returns
• Self-employment tax: 15.3% on net self-employment income (federal)

Annual Requirements for Missouri LLCs

• Annual report: Not required. Missouri is one of the few states that does not require LLCs to file annual reports.
• No annual fees: There are no ongoing state fees to maintain your Missouri LLC.
• State income tax: Missouri individual income tax returns are due April 15.
• Maintain a registered agent: Must have a registered agent with a Missouri address at all times.
• Military exemption: Active duty military personnel are exempt from all filing fees when creating new business entities in Missouri.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to form an LLC in Missouri?

Online filings are typically processed within 3-5 business days. Mail filings take 5-10 business days, not counting transit time. Online filing is recommended for both faster processing and a lower fee ($50 vs. $105).

Does Missouri require an annual report?

No. Missouri is one of the few states that does not require LLCs to file annual reports or pay annual fees. Once your LLC is formed, there are no recurring filings with the Secretary of State.

Does Missouri require an operating agreement?

No, Missouri doesn’t legally require an operating agreement. However, we strongly recommend creating one. It protects your personal liability and most banks require one to open a business account.

Can I form a Missouri LLC if I live in another state?

Yes. You can form a Missouri LLC regardless of where you live. You’ll need a registered agent with a physical Missouri address. However, if you primarily do business in another state, you may be better off forming your LLC there instead. See our how to start an LLC guide for more on choosing the right state.

Why is the mail filing fee higher than online?

Missouri charges $50 for online filings and $105 for mail filings. The difference is significant, so we strongly recommend filing online through the Missouri Secretary of State website to save $55 and get faster processing.

Start an LLC in Another State

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