How to File an LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
Steve 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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articles of organization

The Articles of Organization is one of the main documents required while forming an LLC in Rhode Island. The document needs to be filed with the Secretary of State in Rhode Island to share all the important information related to the limited liability company that is going to be established.

On this page, LLCBuddy editors put all the information together about how to file the Articles of Organization in Rhode Island. There might be several ways to file the formation document, online, by mail, fax, or by in-person visit to the office. Let’s dig more to check the available and easy ways in Rhode Island to file the Articles of Organization while forming the LLC.

What is an LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?

The Articles of Organization for an LLC is the most important document among all. In general, establishing an LLC is much simpler than other types of business structures such as corporation or partnership. Among a few mandatory documents to file, Articles of Organization is one of the main papers.

By submitting the Articles of Organization, the LLC owners provide all sorts of information related to the LLC. Upon approval of the documents and information provided by the LLC, they can register their business with Rhode Island Secretary of State.

Each state has a different requirement to fill out a form. The Articles of Organization usually includes the following:

  • The name of the LLC in Rhode Island,
  • The effective date of the LLC,
  • The company’s principal office,
  • The business purpose,
  • The duration of the business,
  • A copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate, and
  • The name and address of the Resident Agent, organizers, and
  • At least one member of the company

Note that the Articles of Organization in Rhode Island is a legal requirement, not to mention, the core of your LLC. It even makes up the bulk of your Rhode Island LLC cost. Without it, you have no LLC. So, take the time to complete and file this certificate.

How to File Rhode Island LLC Articles of Organization

Filing an LLC Articles of Organization with the State is easy. There are several ways to file it. As mentioned, the filing can be done online, by sending the PDF form by mail, or by other means (physical visit or fax). Statewise filing methods can be different. Alternatively, hiring a third-party service can make a lot of difference compared to doing it on your own. They help the LLCs to file documents easily without any complications. In Rhode Island, the following methods are available.

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Step 1: Find Forms Online

Go to the Rhode Island Secretary of State to download the Articles of Organization form for your LLC or to log into the online service.

Step 2: Fill Out Form

When filling out the form, you must have reserved an LLC name. Do a name search. Go to Rhode Island LLC Name Search to check whether your chosen business name is available to use in this state.

You must attach a copy of your Name Reservation to your filled-out Articles of Organization form when filing. You also need to mention the name and address of the Rhode Island Resident Agent. We recommend the best LLC services in Rhode Island that you can choose to form your LLC, hire the Resident Agent, and file the Articles of Organization with the SOS.

If you plan to start an LLC in states other than Rhode Island, you must file a foreign LLC in other states. For filing a foreign LLC you can explore the best LLC services that operate in 50 other states along with Rhode Island.

What information does the Articles of Organization application need in Rhode Island?

The application form for the Articles of Organization needs to include the LLC name, date of establishment, the company’s registered office, business purpose, how long the business will exist, and a copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate.

Step 3: File Formation Certificates

File your formation certificate either online or by mail (whichever is available and convenient for you) by filling out the form and sending it to the Division of Business Services, 148 W. River Street, Providence, RI 02904. For online filing, you must log in to the Rhode Island Secretary of State or register with the portal. Submit the form online (if available).

Pay the required filing fee at the time of form submission to complete the LLC registration. For online filing, payment should be made using Credit or Debit Cards. For offline filing, payment should be made using a Cheque or in cash (if available).

Cost of Filing Rhode Island Articles of Organization

cost

LLC cost in Rhode Island includes all types of fees starting from name reservation fee, DBA filing fee ($50), Resident Agent costs, and Articles of Organization fee. In Rhode Island, the filing fee of a formation document is $150 (by mail and online). The standard fee for filing the Articles of Organization allows one to file the LLC within the standard time. However, by paying additional fees, you can expedite the process, and can be done as soon as within a few hours (depending on state rules).

Hiring a professional service can reduce some of the costs while filing an LLC. However, the state filing fee is mandatory and has to be paid at the time of registration. We recommend hiring ZenBusiness as it offers filing an LLC at $0 (plus state filing fee).

Amend Rhode Island Articles of Organization: If you make any changes to your LLC, you must file the changes with the Secretary of State. To do so, you must Amend Rhode Island Articles of Organization. LLCs can get the amendment form, fill it out with the changed/updated information, and send it back to the SOS online or offline.

FAQs

What is an LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
An LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island is a legal document that must be filed with the Secretary of State to officially form a limited liability company in the state.
How do I file LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
You can file LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island online or by mail with the Secretary of State’s office.
What information is required in the LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
The LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island typically require information such as the LLC’s name, address, registered agent, members, and purpose of the business.
How much does it cost to file LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
The filing fee for LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island is $150.
Is an operating agreement required in Rhode Island when filing LLC Articles of Organization?
While an operating agreement is not required when filing LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island, it is highly recommended to draft one to outline the ownership and operation of the business.
Can I file LLC Articles of Organization on behalf of someone else in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can hire an attorney, filing service, or individual to file LLC Articles of Organization on your behalf in Rhode Island.
How long does it take to process LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
The processing time for LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island varies, but typically ranges from 3-5 business days.
Can I amend LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can amend LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island by filing an Articles of Amendment with the Secretary of State.
Can I dissolve an LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can dissolve an LLC in Rhode Island by filing Articles of Dissolution with the Secretary of State.
What is required for a foreign LLC to do business in Rhode Island?
Foreign LLCs must file an Application for Registration with the Rhode Island Secretary of State to do business in the state.
Do I need a registered agent in Rhode Island for my LLC?
Yes, all LLCs in Rhode Island are required to have a registered agent who can receive legal documents on behalf of the company.
Can I change the registered agent for my LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can change the registered agent for your LLC in Rhode Island by filing a Change of Registered Agent form with the Secretary of State.
What happens if I fail to file LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island?
Failing to file LLC Articles of Organization in Rhode Island can result in penalties and the LLC not being considered a legal entity in the state.
Is the information in LLC Articles of Organization public in Rhode Island?
Yes, the information in LLC Articles of Organization is public record and can be accessed by the public in Rhode Island.
Can I convert an existing business into an LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can convert an existing business into an LLC in Rhode Island by filing Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State.
Do I need an EIN for my LLC in Rhode Island?
If your LLC has more than one member or employees, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes in Rhode Island.
Can I change the name of my LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can change the name of your LLC in Rhode Island by filing an Articles of Amendment with the Secretary of State.
Are there annual filing requirements for LLCs in Rhode Island?
Yes, LLCs in Rhode Island are required to file an Annual Report with the Secretary of State each year to remain in good standing.
Can I add or remove members from my LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can add or remove members from your LLC in Rhode Island by amending the LLC’s operating agreement and filing any necessary paperwork with the Secretary of State.
Can an LLC be managed by its members in Rhode Island?
Yes, an LLC can be managed by its members in Rhode Island, known as member-managed LLCs, or by appointed managers, known as manager-managed LLCs.
Can I operate multiple businesses under one LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can operate multiple businesses under one LLC in Rhode Island, but it is typically recommended to form separate LLCs for each business to limit liability.
Can an LLC be owned by a corporation in Rhode Island?
Yes, a corporation can be a member or owner of an LLC in Rhode Island, though it is important to follow the proper filing and ownership structures to maintain legal separation of the entities.
Can I transfer ownership of my LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, ownership interests in an LLC in Rhode Island can be transferred between members, though specific procedures outlined in the operating agreement or state laws must be followed.
Can an LLC be formed for any type of business in Rhode Island?
Yes, an LLC can be formed for almost any type of legal business activity in Rhode Island, though certain professions such as legal or healthcare services may have additional requirements.
Can an LLC in Rhode Island convert to a corporation?
Yes, an LLC in Rhode Island can convert to a corporation by following the appropriate legal procedures outlined by the Secretary of State and IRS.
Are there any specific naming requirements for an LLC in Rhode Island?
LLC names in Rhode Island must include the words “Limited Liability Company” or abbreviations like “LLC” and must be distinguishable from other registered business entities in the state.
What is the registered office and agent address requirements for an LLC in Rhode Island?
Every LLC in Rhode Island must have a registered office and agent address, which must be a physical street address within the state and cannot be a PO Box.
Can I form a professional LLC (PLLC) in Rhode Island?
Yes, licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, accountants, etc., can form a professional LLC (PLLC) in Rhode Island by meeting additional licensing and registration requirements specific to their profession.
Can I convert a sole proprietorship or partnership into an LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can convert a sole proprietorship or partnership into an LLC in Rhode Island by filing the necessary paperwork and meeting the registration requirements with the Secretary of State.
Can I file LLC Articles of Organization online in Rhode Island?
Yes, you can file LLC Articles of Organization online through the Rhode Island Secretary of State website.

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In Conclusion

The formation document or the Articles of Organization is the main document you need while forming your limited liability company in Rhode Island. Certainly, you must attach supporting documents such as a name reservation certificate, registered agent name and address, and others. In Rhode Island, filing the Articles of Organization is easy. However, mistakes can happen if you are a beginner or a first-time business filer. It is suggested to hire a professional service.

LLCBuddy editors recommend ZenBusiness, as it not only offers free LLC formation service ($0), but also, offers other services such as Resident Agent, operating agreement, EIN, Certificate of Good Standing for foreign LLC establishment, business name search, and many more.

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