New York Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


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If you already have an LLC in another state and want a New York 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 New York

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

Step 1: Choose New York Foreign LLC Name

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

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

Step 2: Select New York Foreign LLC Registered Agent

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

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email through the New York Secretary of State website or by mail to the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations, One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231.

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

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

Step 4: Determine How Your New York Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the New York 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 New York Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

To start your foreign business limited liability company in New York, you must apply for a Certificate of Authority with the New York Secretary of State office. The State offers only offline filing options for foreign LLCs through the mail. The cost of registration is $250. Once approved by the Secretary of State office, you will receive a certified copy of your Certificate of Authority. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for the New York Foreign LLC,

  1. Visit the Official Website of the New York Department of State

    The page provides all the information about the Application for Authority for Foreign Limited Liability Companies offered by the State of New York. You can read all the Statutory information and additional information and guidelines on this page.

  2. Download The Application Form

    On the page, scroll down to the heading ‘How to File’. The section contains the link to the Application for Authority. You can also download the Application Form PDF here. The State, however, does not mandate to follow the same application form. You may draft your own form that must contain all optional provisions under the law.

  3. Follow The Instructions

    The application contains instructions mentioned in italics below every blank space. Read all the information carefully before you start filling in the application form.

  4. Certificate of Authority

    The next will be filling up the Certificate of Authority. It is required before you form a Foreign LLC in New York. Download the form and fill it up.

  5. Attach Other Certificates

    You must mandatorily attach the Certificate of Existence, Certificate of Good Standing, or Certificate of Status from the official who maintains your business LLC records in the State of Original jurisdiction where the business LLC was formed.

  6. Make the Payment

    Issue a cheque or money order of $250 as the filing fee for Application of Authority payable to the ‘Department of State’.

  7. Submit the Form

    Arrange all the documents and send them to the following address, Department of State, Division Of Corporations, State Records And Uniform Commercial Code, One Commerce Plaza 99 Washington Ave. Albany, NY 12231-0001.

After Forming New York Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your New York 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

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 New York. 

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in New York

To register as a foreign LLC in New York, you can file through mail or in-person by paying a filing fee of $100 to the Department of State Division of Corporations New York.

Establishing a foreign LLC in New York is both an exciting and challenging endeavor. As with any new venture, understanding the costs involved is essential for setting realistic expectations and properly budgeting for the registration process. While the exact expenses may differ depending on the specific circumstances, it’s beneficial to delve into a general overview of the potential costs to form a foreign LLC in the state.

First and foremost, there are various administrative fees imposed by the state government during the registration process. These fees cover essential aspects such as filing the Certificate of Authority and obtaining the required licenses and permits. Alongside these charges, many foreign LLCs engage the services of professional registered agents to handle the complexities of compliance, receiving lawsuits, and maintaining important document records within New York. Although hiring a registered agent is optional, it can be beneficial for foreign LLCs not entirely familiar with local regulations and customs.

There is also the factor of legal expenses, especially if you decide to engage a lawyer to assist with the entire registration process. Although not obligatory, having legal expertise on your side can streamline the entire process, saving time, effort, and potentially preventing expensive oversights or mistakes. Lawyers specializing in company formation can provide invaluable guidance, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, and advising foreign LLCs on best practices to avoid any pitfalls.

Taking realism into account, foreign LLCs should consider operational expenses that may be incurred beyond registration costs. Renting commercial spaces, acquiring permits for specific activities, essential manpower requirements, and other expenditures are critical factors for businesses that require physical presence within New York. A comprehensive understanding of both fixed and variable costs is vital for successfully calculating the overall financial outlay.

It is worth mentioning that understanding these costs within the broader context of New York’s highly competitive market is crucial. With the metropolis playing host to diverse industries and headquarters of multinational corporations, foreign LLCs must analyze whether the benefits of establishing a presence in New York outweigh the associated expenses. The state’s unique business ecosystem boasts immense potential for growth and expansion. However, robust market research should be undertaken to ensure your business goals align with the opportunities available and justify the investment required.

While every situation will yield distinct expenses, developing an understanding of potential costs is pivotal during the decision-making process to set reasonable expectations. Adhering to legal requirements, providing strong foundations for growth, and embarking on the endeavor with open eyes, will surely pave the way for foreign LLCs to capitalize on the abundant opportunities that await them in the bustling hub of innovation that is New York.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in New York?

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

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 New York as an LLC. The entity type that has a physical presence in another state is a foreign LLC.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in New York 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.


About Author & Editorial Staff

Steve Goldstein, founder of LLCBuddy, is a specialist in corporate formations, dedicated to guiding entrepreneurs and small business owners through the LLC process. LLCBuddy provides a wealth of streamlined resources such as guides, articles, and FAQs, making LLC establishment seamless. The diligent editorial staff makes sure content is accurate, up-to-date information on topics like state-specific requirements, registered agents, and compliance. Steve's enthusiasm for entrepreneurship makes LLCBuddy an essential and trustworthy resource for launching and running an LLC.

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