If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
Forming a Tennessee 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 Tennessee, you need to register it with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
Step 1: Choose Tennessee Foreign LLC Name
Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Tennessee Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Tennessee will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Tennessee. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.
Check name availability at Tennessee’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.
Step 2: Select Tennessee Foreign LLC Registered Agent
You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Tennessee and take note that a Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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’s office at 6th FL – Snodgrass Tower ATTN: Corporate Filing, 312 Rosa L. Parks AVE, Nashville, TN 37243.
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 Tennessee.
- Date when your LLC will start operations in Tennessee.
- Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.
The LLC cost in Tennessee, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.
Step 4: Determine How Your Tennessee Foreign LLC is taxed
Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Tennessee 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 Tennessee Foreign LLC Online
Time needed: 5 minutes
To start your foreign business as a Limited Liability Company in the State of Tennessee, you must first register your business with the Secretary of State of Tennessee office to obtain the Certificate of Authority. The State offers online and offline filing options. The cost of registration is $300+. When your application is approved by the State office, you will receive the Certificate of Authority of your business documents from the Secretary of State office. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Foreign Business Registration in Tennessee.
Following are the steps to register the Foreign LLC online:
- Visit the Official website of the Tennessee Secretary of State
Go to the Businesses tab on the official Tennessee Secretary of State website. On the State main web page, click on the ‘Businesses’ option on the top toolbar.
- Choose the “File new Business Online” option
Click on the File New Business Online tab in the circle.
- Click on Start Now Option
On the next page, you will see a red “Start Now” button. Click on that.
- Choose Business Entity Type
Select “Limited Liability Company” from the business entity type- drop-down menu & check the box before “I Attest That”
- Start Filing the Application Form
The application form is displayed on the screen. Enter the business entity name and confirm the same. Select the formation locale as ‘Foreign Business’. If your business is a Series LLC, you can accordingly select the same. Next, press the ‘Continue’ tab.
- Proceed with other details & signatures
Fill in the required details on all the subsequent pages. Make sure that you have filled in the information correctly. Put all the relevant signatures of the signatories.
- Make the Payment
Once you have correctly filled the application form, proceed to the payment gateway page and make the payment as per your business structure, i.e. $300+ $50 for every member. You receive an acknowledgment of your application, once you have submitted it successfully.
Filing Tennessee Foreign LLC by Mail
If you wish to file your Tennessee Foreign Business LLC Certificate of Authority application by mail, you can do so easily.
- Download the application form PDF (Form SS-4233) on your device.
- Read the instructions attached to the form carefully and accordingly fill in the details.
- You can attach the Certificate of Existence issued by the State of Original Jurisdiction.
- After you have reviewed all the details thoroughly in the application form, issue a money order or check payable to the Tennessee Secretary of State.
- Compile all the documents together and mail it to the following address, Business Services Division, Tre Hargett, Secretary of State, State of Tennessee 312 Rosa L. Parks AVE, 6th Fl. Nashville, TN 37243-1102.
- You can also submit your walk-in application to the Secretary of State Business Services Division located at 6th FL – Snodgrass Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave, Nashville, TN 37243.
After Forming Tennessee Foreign LLC
Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Tennessee 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 Tennessee.
How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Tennessee
To register as a foreign LLC in Tennessee, you can file through mail by paying a filing fee od $50 per member to the Tennessee Secretary of State.
First and foremost, it is crucial to recognize that the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Tennessee differs from that of forming a domestic LLC. Several fees and formalities are involved, with the ultimate goal of ensuring compliance with the state’s laws and regulations governing foreign entities.
One crucial cost encountered during the registration process is the filing fee. Foreign entities wishing to operate within Tennessee will need to file necessary documents with the Secretary of State, and this incurs a one-time filing fee. Familiarizing oneself with the prescribed amount beforehand is essential for effective financial planning.
Another component to consider within the registration process is the requirement of appointing a registered agent. In order to establish a seamless mode of communication between the foreign LLC and the State of Tennessee, selecting a registered agent is a necessity. These professionals act as a designated contact point, receiving official documents and important legal notices on behalf of the foreign LLC. While hiring a registered agent necessitates an additional financial commitment, it ensures that the LLC remains compliant with administrative obligations.
It is essential to account for professional fees if choosing to employ services that assist with the foreign LLC registration process. Companies specializing in legal assistance or business formation can provide guidance and expedite the compliance procedures, though this entails a certain cost. However, many entrepreneurs find these services invaluable, as they spare them from potentially convoluted procedures and ensure all essential accurately filed paperwork is prepared.
Other costs may arise post-registration to maintain compliance and good standing. Annual reports and filing fees are imperative for foreign LLCs operating in Tennessee. Staying in step with these yearly responsibilities guarantees that the business remains active and legally recognized. Hence, individuals are advised to familiarize themselves with the recurring filing expenses associated with maintaining a foreign LLC in Tennessee.
Moreover, certain miscellaneous costs might emerge depending on the nature of the business and its unique requirements. Businesses may need to fulfill additional licensing obligations if they operate within specific industries or offer specialized services. Being aware of these potential extras will prevent financial surprises down the road.
It is important to emphasize that the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Tennessee can fluctuate depending on individual circumstances such as the specific kind of company, the professional services engaged, and the unique business goals pursued. Consulting professional advisors or seeking authenticated resources is strongly recommended for a precise evaluation of the expenses involved.
In conclusion, prospective business owners exploring the profitable market of Tennessee should not ignore the associated costs when registering a foreign LLC. From filing fees and registered agent expenses to annual reporting and potential licensing fees, each component adds to the financial commitment. With comprehensive planning and accurate information, entrepreneurs can ensure a seamless registration process, capitalizing on the numerous advantages Tennessee has to offer for foreign entities.
F.A.Qs
If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Tennessee.
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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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.
