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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in SC, 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 South Carolina.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
Forming a South Carolina 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 South Carolina, you need to register it with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Step 1: Choose South Carolina Foreign LLC Name
Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the South Carolina Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of South Carolina will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in South Carolina. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.
Check name availability at South Carolina’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.
Step 2: Select South Carolina Foreign LLC Registered Agent
You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in South Carolina and take note that a South Carolina 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:
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Step 3: File Registration of South Carolina Foreign LLC
Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for a Registration form by mail toSouth Carolina Secretary of State’s Office, Attn: Corporate Fillings, 1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 525, Columbia, SC 29201.
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 South Carolina
- Date when your LLC will start operations in South Carolina.
- Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.
The LLC cost in South Carolina, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.
Step 4: Determine How Your South Carolina Foreign LLC is taxed
Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the South Carolina 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 Filing South Carolina Foreign LLC Online
Time needed: 5 minutes
To initiate your foreign business through a Limited Liability Company in the State of South Carolina, you must register your foreign business with the Secretary of State of South Carolina. The State offers online and offline methods of filing. After approval of your application, you will receive a Certified copy of your Business Registration from the Secretary of State office. The Cost of registration is $110 (non-refundable). We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you register your foreign business in South Carolina.
- Visit the official website of the Secretary of State of South Carolina
Access the South Carolina Secretary of State official website. The State website offers a single-stop solution to different business filings through an Online Business filings portal to provide a convenient platform offering different business-related services to the citizens in the online format.
- Create a Business Account
Create your personal account on the State business portal to access the online services offered by the State. If you already own a business account, enter your user ID and password to log in to the portal.
- Start your business filing
Login to your business portal account. On the user homepage, select the option to “Start a New Business Filing”. Next, enter your desired business name and choose to “Add a new entity”. Now, from the dropdown menu, select the option of “Limited Liability Company” and then select “Articles of Organization”.
- Read the instructions
When you access the online application form on your device, firstly, go through all the instructions attached to the form carefully and accordingly start filling in all the required details. Do not skip any important section. After you finish providing the details in the form, review all the information provided by you to be correct and accurate.
- Make the payment
Upon finalizing your application form, you must proceed to the payment gateway page and pay $110 as the online filing fee of your business registration application. You shall receive an acknowledgment receipt notification from the Secretary of State office after you successfully submit the application form.
File Foreign LLC By Mail
- Download the Application form PDF on your device.
- Read all the instructions to fill the form and proceed accordingly. Do not miss out on providing any important information.
- You must also attach the Certificate of Existence issued by the State of Original Jurisdiction.
- Recheck all the details mentioned in the application form. Avoid any error in filling the details.
- Now, issue a money order or check for $110 payable to the Secretary of State.
- Arrange all the documents together and mail it to the following address, Secretary of State, 1205 Pendleton St, Ste.525, Columbia, SC 29201.
After Forming South Carolina Foreign LLC
Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your South Carolina 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 South Carolina.
F.A.Qs
If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in South Carolina.
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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina
To register as a foreign LLC in South Carolina, you can file through mail or online by paying a filing fee of $110 to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
One of the first things to consider when registering a foreign LLC in South Carolina is the filing fee. This fee covers the cost of processing the paperwork necessary to establish your LLC in the state. The filing fee can vary depending on the state and can range from as little as a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s essential to be aware of the filing fee in South Carolina before initiating the registration process to avoid any surprises.
In addition to the filing fee, foreign LLCs are often required to appoint a registered agent in South Carolina. A registered agent is an individual or company designated to receive legal documents and important notices on behalf of the LLC. While some business owners choose to act as their registered agent, others opt to hire a professional registered agent service. The costs associated with a registered agent can vary, so be sure to budget for this expense when registering your foreign LLC in South Carolina.
Another cost to consider when registering a foreign LLC in South Carolina is any required business licenses or permits. Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain specific licenses or permits before you can legally operate in the state. The cost of these licenses and permits can vary based on the type of business you are in and the location of your operations. Make sure to research the specific requirements for your industry and budget accordingly for any necessary permits.
Additionally, it’s important to factor in any ongoing compliance costs associated with maintaining a foreign LLC in South Carolina. This may include annual report filing fees, franchise taxes, and other administrative expenses. These costs can add up over time, so it’s essential to understand your obligations as an LLC owner in South Carolina and budget accordingly.
While the cost of registering a foreign LLC in South Carolina may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to view it as a necessary expense to establish your business in a new market. By understanding the various costs associated with registering and operating a foreign LLC in South Carolina, you can better prepare yourself for the financial commitment involved.
In conclusion, registering a foreign LLC in South Carolina requires careful consideration of the costs involved. By understanding the filing fees, registered agent expenses, business licenses and permits, and ongoing compliance costs, business owners can budget effectively and avoid any financial surprises during the registration process. By taking the time to research and plan for these costs, you can ensure a successful transition and establish a strong presence for your business in South Carolina.
In Conclusion
Starting a foreign LLC in South Carolina 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.