Delaware Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
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If you already have an LLC in another state and want a Delaware LLC, then how to start 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 Delaware.

Forming an Delaware 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 Delaware, you need to register it with the Delaware Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose Delaware Foreign LLC Name

Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Delaware Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Delaware will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Delaware. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.

Check name availability at Delaware’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.

Step 2: Select Delaware Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Delaware and take note that a Delaware registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that can provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:

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Step 3: File Registration of Delaware Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email to [email protected] or by mail to:

  • Regular Mail: Division of Corporations PO Box 898 Dover, DE 19903 or
  • Express Mail: Division of Corporations John G. Townsend Bldg. 401 Federal Street, – Suite 4 Dover, DE 19901

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 Delaware
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Delaware.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $200 application fee.

The LLC cost in Delaware, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.

Step 4: Determine How Your Delaware Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Delaware 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 Delaware Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

Delaware Secretary of State does not have any provision for online registration of foreign or domestic LLCs. The LLCs have to download the form, fill it up and send it to the official address via mail. However, businesses can upload the form or any documents online to the ‘Document Upload Service’ page. Here’s what you have to do to register Delaware foreign LLC online,

  1. Download and Fill Out Registration Form

    To start with one has to download the registration form available on the Delaware Secretary of State portal. Download the form on your computer. Fill it up with the required information. Before start filling up the form, make sure to read all the terms and conditions.

    Delaware foreign LLC step 1

  2. Upload Completed Form

    Once the form is done filing, visit the online Document Upload Service portal to submit the form. Select the ‘Document Upload’ section.
    Delaware foreign LLC step 2
    Along with the documents, one has to mention some important information regarding the LLC. The steps are similar to the Delaware Certificate of Formation.

    Points to mention in the Document Upload Page:
    1. Priority Type
    2. Submitter Infor (name, address, city, state, email)
    3. Document request type
    4. Corporation name, type of document/type of certification
    5. Return method
    6. Comments
    Delaware foreign LLC step 3
    You can upload the document in the document request type section. By clicking the Continue button you will be on the next page.
    Delaware foreign LLC step 4
    Points to note about Document Upload:
    1. This is a new service by the Delaware Division of Corporations for eFiling
    2. For the existing and frequent users, a My eCorp Account will be created. This account should be linked with their existing Division of Corporation account.
    3. The service is not available on weekends or on any holidays. The timing of the service is Mon-Thurs from 7.45 am to 11.59 pm (EST) and Fri from 7.45 am to 10.30 pm (EST)
    4. Technical Support contact: call at (302) 857-4626 or email at [email protected].

  3. Payment

    Once you have done uploading documents, you have to make the payment. The Franchise Tax and other payments can be made online. Payment should be made by using VISA, MasterCard, and American Express cards.

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 Delaware.

After Forming Delaware Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Delaware Foreign LLC

  1. Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
  2. File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
  3. Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in Delaware?

If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Delaware.

Do I need a foreign LLC?

Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.

What is the main difference between domestic and foreign LLC?

A domestic LLC is a company registered in Delaware 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 Delaware

To register as a foreign LLC in Delaware, you can file through mail by paying $200 or online by paying a filing amount of $200 payable to the Delaware Secretary of State.

The overall cost of registering a foreign LLC in Delaware can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the specific services required, legal fees, and the complexity of the business structure. While it is difficult to provide a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, it is important for businesses to budget accordingly and understand the potential expenses involved in the process.

One of the primary costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Delaware is the filing fee required by the Delaware Division of Corporations. This fee can vary depending on the type of LLC being formed and whether expedited processing is requested. Additionally, businesses may need to consider additional fees for services such as obtaining a Delaware Registered Agent or drafting legal documents.

Legal fees are another significant cost that businesses may encounter when registering a foreign LLC in Delaware. Given the complexities of U.S. business law and the nuances of Delaware business regulations, many businesses choose to seek the assistance of legal professionals to navigate the registration process. While legal fees can add to the overall cost, they can also provide peace of mind and ensure that the business is in compliance with all relevant regulations.

In addition to legal fees and filing costs, businesses should also consider ongoing expenses associated with maintaining a foreign LLC in Delaware. These expenses may include annual reports, franchise taxes, and other regulatory requirements that must be fulfilled to keep the LLC in good standing.

While the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Delaware can seem daunting, it is important for businesses to view this as an investment in their future success. Delaware’s reputation as a business-friendly state with strong legal protections and tax benefits can provide businesses with a solid foundation for growth and expansion. By understanding the potential costs involved and planning accordingly, businesses can position themselves for success in the U.S. market.

In conclusion, the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Delaware is an important consideration for businesses looking to establish a presence in the United States. While the overall expenses can vary depending on a number of factors, it is crucial for businesses to budget accordingly and understand the potential costs involved in the process. By investing in the registration of a foreign LLC in Delaware, businesses can lay the groundwork for future growth and success in the U.S. market.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Delaware 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.

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