LLC Articles of Organization Template

Articles of Organization are the official formation document that you submit to a state authority when setting up a limited liability company (LLC).

This document legally separates the owners from the business entity.

Some states refer to it as a:

• Certificate of Formation
• Certificate of Organization

Although the name of this legal document varies by state, its function remains the same.

An LLC does not legally exist without approved Articles of Organization. This is true even if the business is already operating in practice.

After filing, the information included in the Articles of Organization can typically be accessed by:

• Banks
• Regulators
• Third parties performing due diligence

Why Do You Need Articles of Organization for an LLC?

Articles of Organization are required because they are the step that legally separates the business from its owners. This separation is what allows an LLC to offer limited liability protection.

Filing Articles of Organization provides a number of distinct benefits. For example, it creates a clear legal record of who receives official notices and the company's high-level structure.

You should take a look at a finished Articles of Organization to get an idea of what it should include and its structure. Here is a sample:

Articles of Organization are straightforward. They do not describe how the business will operate day to day. Instead, they provide the state with essential identifying information.

Most states require you to include the following elements when drafting your Articles of Organization:

• The legal name of the LLC
• The principal business or mailing address
• The name and address of the registered agent
• The management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)
• The name and signature of the organizer
• A brief purpose statement, if required
• The effective date of the LLC, if not immediate
• The duration of the LLC, if not perpetual

Some states allow or require additional provisions. These should only be included if you understand their legal effect.

It is usually quite easy to file Articles of Organization. You should complete the following steps:

Step 1: Choose a Compliant LLC Name

Your LLC name must meet state requirements. You also have to make sure that the name is not already being used by another company. Most states also require the name to include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company".

Step 3: Appoint a Registered Agent

Every LLC must designate a registered agent with an address in your state. Any legal notices will be sent to this agent.

Step 4: Select the Management Structure

You must state whether the LLC will be managed by its members or by appointed managers. This affects who has authority to act on behalf of the company.

Step 5: Complete and Sign the Filing

Next, you must sign the document. Some states require contact information or further declarations.

Step 6: Submit the Filing and Pay the State Fee

Most states allow online filing, though some still accept mail submissions. Once approved, the LLC is legally formed.

Step 7: Obtain Copies for Your Records

You should keep a copy of the approved filing. Certified copies may be required for:

• Banking
• Licensing
• Registration in other states

Some states request only basic details to file Articles of Organization. Others require more information. States vary in their:

• Information requirements
• Filing structure
• Fees
• Terminology
• Procedure for removing members

You must check what the rules are in your state before you file it.

The name of the document also varies by state:

The following documents available on our site may help if you are setting up a new LLC:

• LLC Operating Agreement
• Business Plan
• Single-Member LLC Operating Agreement
• Multi-member LLC Operating Agreement