How to start an LLC in Louisiana: Your 2025 step-by-step guide

Starting a business in Louisiana is an exciting opportunity, whether you're opening a café in New Orleans, launching a tech startup in Baton Rouge, or setting up a boutique in Shreveport. As you turn your vision into reality, one of the first big decisions you'll make is choosing the right business structure. 

And while there are several options, such as partnerships and corporations, a limited liability company (LLCs) is a common one, especially for small businesses.

Jump to:

• Why choose an LLC in Louisiana?
• New business data in Louisiana in 2025
• 5 steps for creating an LLC in Louisiana
• Step 1: Choose a name for your Louisiana LLC
• Step 2: Choose a registered agent in Louisiana
• Step 3: Complete the Articles of Organization form and file your Louisiana LLC
• Step 4: Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Step 5: Ongoing compliance and required filings
• Types of LLCs to consider in Louisiana
• Costs of setting up an LLC in Louisiana
• LLC Taxes in Louisiana
• Frequently asked questions

Why choose an LLC in Louisiana?

Perhaps have heard about the limited liability company (LLC) structure and its potential benefits. An LLC is a business entity that combines the liability protection of a corporation with the simpler management and tax advantages of a sole proprietorship or partnership. This means your personal assets are protected from business debts, and you may have tax flexibility, choosing to be taxed as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation. 

Many entrepreneurs also opt for an LLC because it offers easy formation, fewer compliance requirements, and business credibility.

This guide will explain how to start an LLC in Louisiana. It covers the costs and paperwork involved, tax considerations, how accounting software could help, and other important information to set yourself up for success. 

New business data in Louisiana in 2025

Louisiana's small business landscape presents a mix of growth opportunities and ongoing challenges. The state is home to over 490,000 small businesses, accounting for 99.5% of all businesses and employing over 867,762 people, which represents 54.5% of the state's workforce. The state added 9,500 jobs over the past year, though it remains 27,000 jobs below pre-pandemic levels. 

Several sectors are poised for growth including advanced manufacturing, healthcare, energy, aerospace and engineering, and life sciences. Military and defense continues to be a thriving ecosystem and accounts for almost 4% of jobs in the state. 

In 2025, Louisiana is bolstering its innovation landscape with the launch of Louisiana Innovation (LA.IO), a division of Louisiana Economic Development (LED) dedicated to fostering high-growth, technology-enabled startups. Its first initiative, the Louisiana Growth Fund, will provide $50 million in federal funding to support startup development. LA.IO is also establishing the Louisiana Institute for Artificial Intelligence to advance AI research, commercialization, and workforce development. The Institute's first project aims to equip 5,000 small businesses with AI tools to enhance growth and competitiveness.

5 steps for creating an LLC in Louisiana 

Deciding on structuring your venture as an LLC is a major step toward starting your Louisiana business. The process requires important decisions, such as choosing a unique name, filing necessary documents, and securing an EIN. The next sections explain each step to make setting up your LLC simple and straightforward.

Step 1: Choose a name for your Louisiana LLC

Select a distinctive and compliant name when forming your LLC. This will be the legal name of your business. Choose a name that is easy to remember and lets prospective customers know what products or services your company will provide. Your LLC's name must also comply with Louisiana’s naming rules. 

Louisiana LLC naming rules 

When choosing a name for your LLC in Louisiana, there are specific guidelines you must follow:

LLC designation

• Your LLC name must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "L.C."
• If forming a low-profit LLC, it must include "Low-Profit Limited Liability Company" or "L3C."

Uniqueness requirement

• Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other registered businesses in Louisiana.
• You cannot use "DBA" or "doing business as" in the official LLC name.

Restricted words

• Your name cannot falsely suggest government affiliation (local, state, or federal).
• Words like "bank," "trust," "insurance," "engineer," or "architect" require special approvals.
• Your name cannot include misleading, immoral, or deceptive terms.

Accurate representation 

• The name should not deceptively or falsely suggest a charitable or nonprofit nature, nor imply that the company is an administrative agency of any parish, the state, or the United States.

Check for name availability

Before finalizing your LLC's name, it's advisable to perform a preliminary name availability search. This can be done through the Louisiana Secretary of State's online business filings search tool. Keep in mind that a more thorough search will be conducted once you submit your documents for filing.

Also be aware that minor differences do not make a name unique, for example:

• Spelling variations (e.g., "Cajun" vs. "Kajun")
• Phonetic similarities (e.g., "Excellent" vs. "X E Lent")
• Differences in punctuation or spacing
• Adding suffixes like "LLC," "Inc.," or "Co."

Focus on the core name when checking for availability, as subtle changes will not make a name distinguishable.

Reserving your LLC name

Reserving your desired business name is not mandatory, but you may opt to do so while you complete your official paperwork. 

You can submit a request to reserve your preferred name with the Secretary of State online, by mail, or by fax. It costs $25 for a standard request, $30 for an expedited request, and $50 for a priority expedited process. Payments by credit or debit card will need to be made through your geauxBIZ account. Your reservation is good for up to 120 days.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent in Louisiana

All Louisiana businesses, including LLCs, must designate a registered agent who can receive and forward legal documents to the company's members. The Louisiana Secretary of State requires that the registered agent be listed on the company’s formation documents.

Who needs a resident agent?

• All Louisiana LLCs must appoint a registered agent.
• Foreign LLCs registering in Louisiana must also designate a registered agent within the state, even if they have an agent in their home state.

Who can be a resident agent?

• Individual: An adult (at least 18 years old) who is a Louisiana resident and meets the following requirements.
• Has a physical street address in Louisiana (P.O. boxes are not acceptable).
• Is available during normal business hours to receive legal documents on behalf of the LLC.
• Can be a member, employee, attorney, or accountant associated with the business.
• Registered agent service: If you prefer not to receive legal documents at your personal or business address, consider hiring a professional registered agent service. These companies provide a physical street address in Louisiana for your LLC to receive documents. 

Choose a resident agent service

There are many resident agent services available in Louisiana. If you’re thinking about hiring a professional provider, here are some tips for finding the right one.

Research and compare

Be sure to research different providers and compare factors such as:

• Cost: Fees typically start around $50 per year.
• Reputation: Choose a reputable company with a proven track record.
• Customer support: Ensure they provide excellent customer service and support.
• Knowledge. Select a provider with a strong understanding of Louisiana-specific compliance requirements to ensure your business stays in good standing.
• Coverage. For businesses operating in multiple states, choose a provider that offers services across all the states where you plan to operate.

Consider bundled services

If you're using a company formation service or an attorney to set up your LLC, they may offer resident agent services as part of a package.

Step 3: Complete the Articles of Organization form and file your Louisiana LLC

Once you’ve decided on your name and your registered agent, the next step is to fill out the Articles of Organization form.

What is an Articles of Organization?

The Articles of Organization is a legal document submitted to the state to officially form a Limited Liability Company (LLC). It includes essential details such as your business name, address, members, purpose, and management structure. This document serves as the foundation for your LLC's legal operation within the state. 

Articles of Organization in Louisiana are filed with the Louisiana Secretary of State. The fee to file a new Louisiana LLC Articles of Organization is $100. 

Initial report

Along with the Articles of Organization form, you need to submit a Limited Liability Company Initial Report. This report includes: 

• The location and municipal address (not a P.O. Box) of the LLC's registered office.
• The full name and municipal address of each registered agent.
• The names and municipal addresses of the initial managers or members.
• An Agent’s Affidavit and Acknowledgment of Acceptance, which must be signed by each registered agent before a notary public. 

You have two options for obtaining and submitting the Articles of Organization and Initial Report. 

Option 1: Online 

You can access an online Articles of Organization and Initial Report form by visiting geauxBIZ and complete the LLC formation process through the website. 

Online filing and EIN

One unique aspect of filing online through geauxBIZ is that you’ll be prompted to include your EIN before applying as the system processes both business formation and tax registration simultaneously. An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a distinct ID issued by the IRS for businesses to file taxes, hire employees, and open business bank accounts. Usually this is completed after you file your business. But since geauxBIZ handles taxes as well, the online system will ask for it and not process your application without it. 

However, if you reserve your business name in advance, you can get your EIN beforehand. If you choose not to register for taxes during formation or your parish allows paper filing, you can wait to obtain your EIN until after your LLC is officially formed.

Parish requirements

Business owners in the following parishes are required to file all business documents online through geauxBIZ: Ascension, Bossier, Caddo, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Jefferson, Lafayette, Livingston, Orleans, Ouachita, Rapides, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Terrebonne. This will require obtaining an EIN first. 

If you will be filing your Articles of Organization online, complete Step 4 below and then come back to complete Step 3. 

Option 2: Mail-in filing

In some instances in Louisiana, mailing your Articles of Organization and Initial Report may be easier, as you don’t have to obtain an EIN in advance. You can obtain the forms online and mail them with the applicable fee to: P. O. Box 94125, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9125

How long does it take for an LLC to get approved in Louisiana?

Processing types can vary. Generally, online processing and paper filing both take between three and five business days, but for mail-in filing you need to account for postal handling.

If you are not a Louisiana resident

To conduct business in Louisiana as a foreign (out-of-state) LLC, follow these steps:

1. Designate a registered agent: Appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in Louisiana to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC. The agent can be an individual resident, an attorney, a partnership authorized to practice law in Louisiana, or a domestic or foreign corporation authorized to act as a registered agent.
2. Ensure compliance with naming rules: Your LLC's name must be distinguishable from existing entities registered in Louisiana. If a conflict exists, you may need to register under an assumed name.
3. Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing: Provide a certificate of good standing or existence from your LLC's home state, issued within the last 90 days. This certificate must be identical to the name on the certificate of good standing or existence from the incorporating jurisdiction.
4. Complete the Application for Authority: Fill out the "Application of Foreign Limited Liability Company" form, available through the Louisiana Secretary of State.
5. File the application with applicable filing fee: Submit your completed application and accompanying documents to the Louisiana Secretary of State. The filing fee for registering a foreign LLC in Louisiana is $150.

For more information on filing as a foreign LLC in Louisiana, visit the Louisiana Secretary of State's website.

What to include in your LLC's Articles of Organization form

When forming an LLC in Louisiana, your Articles of Organization must include the following information:

• Your LLC name
• Registered office address (not a P.O. box) 
• Your registered agent's name and address 
• Management structure 
• Your signature

You must submit an Initial Report along with the Articles of Organization. This report should list the names and addresses of the LLC's registered agent and its initial members or managers. The registered agent must sign an affidavit acknowledging their appointment, which must be notarized. 

Step 4: Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

You’ll likely need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service to form an LLC in Louisiana. An EIN is a nine-digit number that identifies a business for tax purposes, similar to a Social Security Number for your company.

EIN requirement in Louisiana

Louisiana has a unique requirement when filing online through geauxBIZ. If you submit your Articles of Organization electronically, you’ll be prompted to provide an EIN before completing the application since geauxBIZ processes business formation and tax registration at the same time. Once you get your EIN, you can go back to Step 3 above and file your documents online. 

However, if you choose to file by mail, you can obtain your EIN after your LLC is officially formed.

According to the IRS, you need an EIN if any of the following apply:

1. You have employees
2. Your business operates as a corporation or partnership
3. You file employment, excise, or alcohol, tobacco, and firearms tax returns
4. You withhold taxes on income, other than wages, paid to a non-resident alien
5. You have a Keogh plan (a tax-deferred pension plan)
6. You are involved with certain types of organizations, including trusts, estates, real estate mortgage investment conduits, non-profit organizations, farmers' cooperatives, or plan administrators

Single-member LLC considerations

If you are a single-member LLC, you may not be required to obtain an EIN. However, getting one is still a smart idea, as your business needs might change over time, and obtaining an EIN is free. 

An EIN becomes mandatory if your LLC elects to be taxed as a corporation, hires employees, or files excise or employment tax returns. If you choose to complete your LLC formation online, you will be required to provide an EIN number. 

Having an EIN also simplifies opening a business bank account and protects your personal Social Security Number, reducing the risk of identity theft.

Requesting an EIN

You can request an EIN by mail or phone, but the fastest method is completing the process online on the IRS website. After obtaining an EIN, use accounting software to track business expenses and ensure your company’s finances remain separate from your personal finances. 

Step 5: Ongoing compliance and required filings 

Getting your LLC certificate is the first step of the business compliance journey. To continue doing business, you must adhere to the state and federal laws and regulations to keep your LLC compliant, which include:

• Annual report 
• Filing requirement: All Louisiana LLCs must file an Annual Report with the Louisiana Secretary of State.
• Purpose: To confirm and update the LLC's information on record, including details about members, managers, and registered agents.
• Due date: The Annual Report is due on the anniversary date of the LLC's formation.
• Filing method: You can file the Annual Report online through the geauxBIZ portal or by mail. Business owners in certain parishes are required to file all available business documents, including Annual Reports, online through geauxBIZ.
• Fee: The filing fee for the Annual Report is $30.
• Beneficial Ownership Information Report
• Filing Requirement: Submit a Beneficial Ownership Information Report to the U.S. Department of the Treasury within 30 days of forming your LLC.
• Purpose: This report helps prevent money laundering and other financial crimes by identifying the true owners of the LLC.
• Who needs to file: All LLCs formed in 2024 or later are required to file.
• How to file: File the report online through the U.S. Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network website.
• Fees: There is no filing fee.
• Business licenses and permits
• Requirement: Depending on your LLC's business activities and location, you may need specific state, parish, or local licenses and permits.
• Examples: Professional services, food and beverage establishments, and contractors often require specialized licenses.
• Verification: Consult the Louisiana geauxBIZ portal to determine the specific requirements for your business.
• State tax registration
• Requirement: If your LLC will collect state taxes, such as sales tax, you must register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue.
• Tax determination: Use the Department of Revenue's resources to identify applicable taxes for your business.
• Registration methods: Register online or by mail through the Louisiana Department of Revenue's website. If you are filing your Articles of Organization online, the geauxBIZ system allows for concurrent business formation and tax registration.
• Purchase Insurance
• Requirement: Depending on your business operations, you may need specific insurance coverage, such as:
• Commercial auto insurance
• Liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation insurance
• Information: Check the Louisiana Department of Insurance or the Louisiana Workforce Commission for more information.

Certificate of Good Standing (Optional)

• Purpose: This certificate verifies that your LLC is compliant with state regulations and is often required when:
• Opening a business bank account
• Obtaining certain licenses
• Applying for credit
• How to obtain: Request a Certificate of Good Standing through the Louisiana Secretary of State's office.

Types of LLC to consider in Louisiana

When establishing an LLC in Louisiana, it's essential to understand the various types available to determine which structure best suits your business needs.

Single-member LLC

A single-member LLC is owned by one individual or entity, offering liability protection while allowing for simplified management and taxation. A single-member LLC is typically treated as a disregarded entity for federal income tax purposes, meaning the business activities are reported on the owner's personal tax return.

Multi-member LLC

A multi-member LLC consists of two or more members sharing ownership. This structure provides flexibility in management and profit distribution among members. Multi-member LLCs are generally treated as partnerships for tax purposes unless they elect to be taxed as a corporation.

Low-Profit Limited Liability Company (L3C)

Louisiana offers the option to form a Low-Profit Limited Liability Company, or L3C. An L3C is a type of LLC that combines the legal and tax flexibility of traditional LLCs with the social benefits of a nonprofit organization. It's designed for businesses that aim to achieve a socially beneficial purpose, not just profit. The name of an L3C must include the words "low-profit limited liability company" or the abbreviation "L3C."

Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC)

In Louisiana, professionals such as dentists can form a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) to offer their services under an LLC structure. 

Manager-managed LLC

In a manager-managed LLC, members appoint one or more managers to handle daily operations, allowing non-managing members to act as passive investors. This structure is beneficial for members who prefer to delegate management responsibilities.

Member-managed LLC

A member-managed LLC involves all members actively participating in the management and decision-making processes of the company. This is the default management structure for LLCs in Louisiana unless otherwise specified in the Articles of Organization.

Costs of setting up an LLC in Louisiana

Establishing an LLC in Louisiana involves several fees:

• Articles of Organization and Initial Report filing fee: $100
• Name reservation (optional): $25

Additional costs may include registered agent service fees, which typically start at $50 per year, and any necessary business licenses or permits, depending on your industry and location. It's important to budget for these expenses to ensure compliance with state requirements.

Open a Louisiana LLC business bank account

One of the biggest benefits of forming an LLC is shielding your personal assets if your business is sued. However, this protection can be lost if you mix personal and business assets.

To maintain this protection, open a separate bank account for your LLC. This ensures your business finances remain distinct from your personal ones.

What you'll need 

When opening a business bank account, you’ll typically need:

• Your EIN number
• Articles of Organization, typically a certified copy 
• (Possibly) an operating agreement 
• Personal identification

Out-of-state residents should consider choosing a bank with a presence in the state.

After opening your bank account, use QuickBooks accounting software to keep track and manage your finances. 

LLC Taxes in Louisiana 

LLCs in Louisiana are taxed in alignment with their federal tax classification. This means that if an LLC is treated as a partnership or corporation for federal income tax purposes, it will be treated the same way for Louisiana state income tax. LLCs in Louisiana are also subject to the state's franchise tax, mirroring their federal tax treatment.

Federal tax classification

• Single-member LLCs: Automatically considered disregarded entities, with income and expenses reported on the owner's personal federal tax return.
• Multi-member LLCs: Default to partnership taxation, requiring the filing of Form 1065 with the IRS.
• Election as a corporation: LLCs can choose to be taxed as a C corporation or S corporation by filing the appropriate forms with the IRS.

State income tax

• Pass-through entities: For LLCs taxed as sole proprietorships, partnerships, or S corporations, profits pass through to members' personal tax returns. Members are then subject to Louisiana's state income tax rates on their share of the income. As of 2025, there is a flat personal income tax rate of 3%.
• C Corporations: LLCs electing to be taxed as C corporations are subject to Louisiana's corporate income tax. As of 2025, the corporate income tax rates in Louisiana range from 3.5% to 7.5%, depending on income levels.

Franchise tax

• Louisiana imposes a franchise tax on entities taxed as corporations for federal income tax purposes. This tax applies to LLCs that elect to be treated as corporations federally. The franchise tax is calculated based on the entity's capital employed in Louisiana. There are exceptions however. Consult a tax advisor for more information. 

Sales and use tax

LLCs selling tangible personal property or certain taxable services in Louisiana are required to collect sales and use tax from customers. The state sales tax rate as of 2025 is 5%, but local jurisdictions may impose additional sales taxes. Businesses must register for a sales tax account with the Louisiana Department of Revenue to comply with these requirements.

Employment taxes

If you have employees, you are responsible for withholding state income tax from employee wages and paying state unemployment insurance tax. Employers must register for a withholding account with the Louisiana Department of Revenue and comply with all state employment tax regulations.

Louisiana-related resources

• GeauxBIZ. GeauxBIZ is Louisiana’s official online business portal, allowing entrepreneurs to register, manage, and maintain their businesses. It streamlines tasks like reserving a business name, registering with state agencies, and filing annual reports in one place.
• Louisiana Department of Revenue.The Louisiana Department of Revenue oversees state tax collection, compliance, and administration, helping businesses and individuals meet their tax obligations.
• Louisiana Economic Development. Louisiana Economic Development (LED) supports business growth, workforce development, and investment in the state through incentives, resources, and economic initiatives.
• Louisiana Department of Insurance. The Louisiana Department of Insurance regulates the state's insurance industry, ensuring consumer protection, compliance, and market stability.
• Louisiana Workforce Commission. This commission oversees employment services, workforce development, and unemployment benefits to support job seekers and businesses across the state.

Federal-related resources 

• Small Business Administration (SBA): The SBA supports small businesses through various loan programs, including the 7(a) loan, provides resources for government contracting, and offers counseling and training programs to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS provides essential information for LLCs, including tax classifications, employer identification numbers (EINs), and filing requirements. Its Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center offers guidance on tax obligations specific to LLCs.
• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): For businesses looking to protect their intellectual property, the USPTO provides resources on how to apply for patents and register trademarks, which can be essential for safeguarding your unique products or services.
• U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): The DOL's website offers information on federal labor laws, workplace safety regulations, and employee benefits that LLC owners need to consider when hiring staff.

Disclaimer: 

This content is for information purposes only and information provided should not be considered legal, accounting or tax advice or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. Intuit Inc. does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. Intuit Inc. cannot warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers should verify statements before relying on them.