Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
If you already have an LLC in another state and want an Indiana LLC, then starting an LLC would be somewhat different. You must register as a foreign LLC. We have here a guide on how you can qualify and register for a foreign LLC in Indiana.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
Forming an Indiana Foreign LLC
A foreign LLC does not need to be a company from another country but a business formed under the laws of another state. To start a foreign LLC in Indiana, you need to register it with the Indiana Secretary of State.
Step 1: Choose Indiana Foreign LLC Name
Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Indiana Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Indiana will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Indiana. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.
Check name availability at Indiana business entity names and reserve your LLC name.
Step 2: Select Indiana Foreign LLC Registered Agent
You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Indiana and take note that an Indiana registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:
LLC Service | Our Rating & Pricing | Top Features | Learn More |
#1 TOP PICK  | $0 + State Fees |
| |
 | $0 + State Fees |
|
Step 3: File Registration of Indiana Foreign LLC
Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application Registration form by mail to the Secretary of State, Business Services Division. 302 West Washington Street Room E018, Indianapolis, IN 46204.
Include the following:
- LLC’s full legal name.
- A fictitious name or a DBA (only if your LLC’s legal name is not available); Attach a statement of adoption of the fictitious name signed by all LLC members.
- LLC’s principal office and mailing addresses.
- LLC formation state and date.
- Registered agent’s name and address in Indiana.
- Date when your LLC will start operations in Indiana.
- Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.
The LLC cost in Indiana, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.
Step 4: Determine How Your Indiana Foreign LLC is taxed
Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Indiana Business Privilege Tax, and they must file LLC annual reports each year.
Note that forming a foreign LLC would be good for your business as you can legally operate in a different state thus reaching a larger market and opening more opportunities for higher profit.
Steps to Register your Indiana Foreign LLC Online
Time needed: 5 minutes
When registering for the foreign LLC in this particular State, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of foreign LLC with the Secretary of State. You can file the application either through online mode or via mail which costs $105 and $125 respectively. After approval, you will receive a Verification Certificate from the State Office. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Indiana Foreign LLC.
- Visit the INBiz web portal on the State website
Open the InBiz Business Page on the Indiana Secretary of State website.
- Start a New Business
Scroll down the page and click on the option “Start a New Business”.
- Sign In with Access Indiana
If you already registered your account on the website, click on the “login” option and proceed to fill in your login credentials and access your account. If you do not have an account, click on the “Create Account” option on the page.
- Create your Account
To create your online account on the portal, fill in your email address, and after verification, proceed to fill in the other required details to create your account.
- Proceed to Register
After you create your account on the portal, log in to your INBiz account. Click on “Secretary of State Business Service Division”. Next, click on “Out-of-State Business”. Then, select the option of “Business Formation”.
- Fill in the information
On the business formation page, fill in the required information.
- Review the information
Before you submit your application to the authorities, review the information to be accurate and correct to avoid any rejection.
- Make the payment
Proceed to make the payment of $105 on the portal. After confirmation, you will receive a notification regarding the successful completion of your application for registration of your foreign LLC.
You can also choose to file an application for registration of your Foreign Limited Liability Company OFFLINE via mail by completing the Application form PDF and submitting it to the following address: Secretary of State, Business Service Division, 302 West Washington Street, Room E018, Indianapolis, IN 46204. The filing fee for offline registration is $125 payable to the Secretary of State and the application should be accompanied by a Certificate of Existence issued within the last 60 days by proper authority.
After Forming Indiana Foreign LLC
Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Indiana Foreign LLC
- Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
- File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
- Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.
It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. The steps are very easy and that’s why it’s possible to go along with the steps and form the foreign LLC in Indiana.
F.A.Qs
If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Indiana.
Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.
A domestic LLC is a company registered in Indiana as an LLC. The entity type that has a physical presence in another state is a foreign LLC.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Indiana
To register as a foreign LLC in Indiana, you can file through mail or online by paying a filing amount of $125 to the Indiana Secretary of State.
The cost of registering a foreign LLC in Indiana includes various fees such as the initial filing fee, the Certificate of Existence fee from the home state, and the registered agent fee. This total amount may seem hefty at first glance, but it is important to recognize that the benefits far outweigh the monetary investment. By registering a foreign LLC in Indiana, businesses gain access to a new market with a potential for growth and increased revenue. Additionally, expanding operations beyond state lines opens doors to new customers, suppliers, and partnerships that can propel the business forward in unprecedented ways.
Furthermore, registering a foreign LLC in Indiana grants businesses credibility and professionalism in the eyes of clients and customers in the new market. By complying with state regulations and guidelines, businesses demonstrate their commitment to operating ethically and responsibly. This not only enhances the reputation of the business but also instills trust and confidence among stakeholders, ultimately leading to an improved brand image and increased opportunities for success.
Another advantage of registering a foreign LLC in Indiana is the opportunity to take advantage of favorable tax laws and regulations. Indiana offers a competitive business environment with various tax incentives and benefits for foreign LLCs. By establishing a presence in the state, businesses can leverage these tax advantages to maximize profits and reduce operational costs. This strategic move can significantly impact the financial health and sustainability of the business in the long run.
Moreover, registering a foreign LLC in Indiana provides businesses with legal protection and security. By operating as a separate legal entity from the owners, LLCs shield individuals from personal liability for business debts and obligations. This limitation of liability ensures that the personal assets of owners are safeguarded in case of any legal disputes or financial liabilities. In addition, registering a foreign LLC in Indiana opens up opportunities for legal recourse and protection, allowing businesses to operate with confidence and peace of mind.
In conclusion, while the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Indiana may seem significant, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits and advantages that come with this business decision. From expanding market reach and accessing new opportunities to gaining credibility and legal protection, the value of registering a foreign LLC in Indiana far outweighs the financial investment. Businesses looking to grow and thrive in a competitive environment should carefully evaluate the benefits of registering a foreign LLC in Indiana and seize the opportunity to take their operations to the next level.
In Conclusion
Starting a foreign LLC in Indiana does not require a lot of documentation or tasks. However, it is always good to seek help from a professional when it comes to running your business. Get a professional registered agent and form your foreign LLC anywhere without a hassle.