Iowa Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in Iowa, 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 Iowa.

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

Step 1: Choose Iowa Foreign LLC Name

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

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

Step 2: Select Iowa Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Iowa and take note that an Iowa 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 Iowa Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email to [email protected] or by mail to Secretary of State, Business Services Division, Lucas Building, 1st Floor, Des Moines, Iowa 50319.

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 Iowa.
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Iowa.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.
File Online

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

Step 4: Determine How Your Iowa Foreign LLC is taxed

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

Time needed: 5 minutes

A foreign LLC is a form of the regular LLC business structure originally registered in another state and wants to conduct its business in the State of Iowa. When you are 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 which costs $100. 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 Connecticut Foreign LLC.

Visit the Iowa State website to learn about the updated forms and fees requirements for an Iowa Foreign LLC.

  1. Visit the Fast Track Filing system offered by the Secretary of State of Iowa.

    This system offers an easy method to file business entity documents, biennial reports, and UCCs.

  2. Sign-up or log in

    Click on the “Sign-up” option if you have not created your account on the platform. If you already registered yourself on the platform, click on “log in”, provide your credentials, and log in to your account.

  3. Enter your personal information

    After clicking on “sign-up”, the page will navigate you to the details page. Enter your information such as your name, address, country, email, and password, and click on “Sign-up”.

  4. Registration

    Proceed with the registration and business filings online on your account by filling out the Certificate of Formation form online. Enter all the important information.

  5. Payment

    Finally, make the online payment using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express Cards. Once done, you will receive a notification regarding the completion of filling your Iowa Foreign 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 Iowa.

Steps to Register for your Foreign LLC via Mail

  1. Visit the website: Open the official Iowa Secretary of State website. After the page opens up, click on “Business Services” provided in the header section and then select “Business Entity Forms and Fees”
  2. After the “Business Entity Forms and Fees” page displays, scroll down and click on “Foreign Limited Liability Companies”.
  3. The next page displays the overall costs required in setting up a foreign LLC in Iowa. Select “Application for Certificate of Authority” on the page.
  4. Download the Form for Application for Certificate of Authority from the Official Secretary of State website. It can be filled out online and then printed or printed and then filled out in pen and mailed to the Iowa State Authorities.
  5. Read the instructions carefully and fill the form with required details such as the name of your LLC, date of formation, duration, street and mailing address of its principal office, details of registered agent, and signature.
  6. Make the check payable in the name of “Secretary of State”. The filing fees are $100.00.
  7. After you complete the application form, mail your application to the following address: Secretary of State, Business Services Division, Lucas Building, 1st floor, Des Moines, IA 50319.

After Forming Iowa Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Iowa 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 Iowa?

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

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 Iowa 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 Iowa

To register as a foreign LLC in Iowa, you can file online by paying a filing amount of $100 to the Iowa Secretary of State.

One of the initial costs to consider when registering a foreign LLC in Iowa is the registration fee. This fee is typically charged by the Iowa Secretary of State’s office and can vary depending on the type of business entity being registered. Additionally, there may be additional fees for expedited processing or other services which can quickly add up.

In addition to the registration fee, foreign LLCs in Iowa may also be required to appoint a registered agent within the state. This registered agent is responsible for accepting legal documents on behalf of the LLC and ensuring that the business remains in compliance with Iowa state laws. Hiring a registered agent can be an added expense for businesses looking to register a foreign LLC in Iowa.

Furthermore, foreign LLCs may also be subject to annual reporting requirements in Iowa. These reports typically include information on the LLC’s ownership, activities, and financial standing. Failure to file these reports on time can result in penalties and fines, further adding to the cost of maintaining a foreign LLC in Iowa.

It is important for business owners to carefully consider all of the costs associated with registering and maintaining a foreign LLC in Iowa. These costs can vary depending on the size and nature of the business, as well as the specific requirements of the state. Business owners should budget accordingly and be prepared for potential additional costs that may arise during the registration process.

While the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Iowa can be significant, it is important to remember that these expenses are necessary for legal compliance and ensuring the continued operation of the business within the state. By carefully considering and planning for these costs, business owners can avoid any surprises and successfully establish their presence in Iowa.

In conclusion, the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Iowa can be substantial and should be carefully considered by business owners looking to expand their operations to the state. By understanding the various fees and requirements involved in this process, businesses can effectively plan and budget for the costs associated with registering and maintaining a foreign LLC in Iowa.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Iowa 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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