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

Starting a business in Missouri is exciting, and one of the first key decisions you’ll need to make is selecting the right business structure. Options include a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC), each offering distinct advantages. For many small business owners, forming an LLC is a popular choice due to its flexibility and liability protection.

Jump to:

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

Why choose an LLC in Missouri?

A limited liability company is a business structure that blends the liability protection of a corporation with the tax advantages of a partnership. In an LLC, owners—known as members—are generally shielded from personal liability, meaning their personal assets are protected if the business faces debts or legal issues. This is one of the most significant reasons businesses may choose this structure. LLCs also benefit from pass-through taxation, where profits and losses are reported on members' personal tax returns, avoiding corporate double taxation.

Whether you're launching a solo venture in Kansas City or expanding a team in St. Louis, an LLC provides protection, flexibility, and tax advantages to help your business grow. This guide will walk you through the steps to form an LLC in Missouri, including required fees, paperwork, tax considerations, and how tools like accounting software can support your operations.

New business data in Missouri in 2025

Missouri's economic landscape in 2025 showcases a robust and diversified environment, offering aspiring business owners fertile ground for growth and innovation. The state's Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for February 2025 rose to 56.2, indicating expansion in the manufacturing sector and reflecting a positive business climate.

The state fosters a thriving tech industry, employing over 161,000 people, with initiatives like LaunchCode, Claim Academy, and Apprenticeship Missouri rapidly upskilling workers to meet growing industry demands. Financial services also contributes to Missouri’s economy, employing over 133,000 professionals, making up 5.4% of the workforce. Additionally, Missouri is home to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency's (NGA) western campus, which is undergoing a $1.75 billion expansion, reinforcing the state’s role in national security and technology innovation.

Entrepreneurs and startups benefit from Missouri’s business-friendly environment, which includes low corporate tax rates and extensive infrastructure supporting logistics, biotech, sustainable technology, advanced manufacturing, and supply chains. Innovation communities such as Cortex Innovation Community (St. Louis), UMKC Innovation Center (Kansas City), and the Jordan Valley Innovation Center (Springfield) provide additional resources, funding opportunities, and networking opportunities for high-growth industries. 

With strong economic indicators, industry diversity, and supportive business strategies, Missouri remains an attractive destination for aspiring business owners looking to launch, expand, and succeed.

5 steps to forming an LLC in Missouri

Setting up your Missouri LLC is an important milestone for your business. The process involves key decisions, such as selecting a unique business name, filing the required paperwork, and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The following sections break down each step to help you establish your LLC smoothly and efficiently.

Step 1: Choose a name for your Missouri LLC

The first step in establishing your Missouri LLC is selecting a unique and compliant business name. Your chosen name should be memorable and indicative of your services or products, while adhering to Missouri's naming regulations.

Missouri LLC naming rules

When naming your LLC in Missouri, consider the following state guidelines:

Uniqueness requirement

Your LLC's name must be distinguishable from existing business entities registered in Missouri. To verify name availability, you can conduct a preliminary search through the Missouri Secretary of State's online services.

LLC designation

The name must include one of the following designations:

• Limited Liability Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC

This requirement clearly identifies your business as a limited liability company.

Prohibited terms

Avoid using words that imply a different business structure, such as:

• Corporation
• Corp.
• Incorporated
• Inc."
• Limited Partnership
• L.P.
• Ltd.

Refrain from including words that could mislead consumers into associating your business with government agencies or that are considered offensive.

Character restrictions

Use only letters from the English alphabet and Arabic numerals in your LLC's name. Special characters and symbols are generally not permitted

Restricted words

Certain words, such as "Bank," "Trust," or "Insurance," may require additional authorization before they can be included in your LLC's name. 

Visit the Missouri Secretary of State website for more information about naming your LLC. 

Check for name availability

After selecting a name for your Missouri LLC, it's essential to ensure that no other business is using it. You can verify name availability through the Missouri Secretary of State's Business Entity Search. 

In Missouri, subtle differences in business names may not be enough to legally distinguish them. The state applies specific criteria when determining name uniqueness. For example:

• Suffixes: Variations like "Inc.," "LLC," or "Co." do not differentiate names (e.g., "Town Pottery, Co." and "Town Pottery, LLC" are considered the same).
• Articles: The inclusion of articles such as "the," "a," or "an" does not create a distinct name.
• Conjunctions: Interchanging "and" with "&" is not considered different when determining name uniqueness.
• Word forms: Using singular, plural, or possessive forms of a word does not distinguish names.
• Numerical substitutions: Replacing numbers with words (e.g., "five" vs. "5") does not make a name unique.

When searching for name availability, focus on your preferred core name without these variations.

Reserve your LLC name

While not mandatory, you can reserve your LLC name while completing the necessary formation paperwork. This reservation does not establish your LLC but ensures that your chosen business name is secured for a specific period. In Missouri, you can reserve a business name for 60 days by filing an Application for Reservation of Name (Form BE 1) with the Secretary of State and paying a $25 fee. This can be done online or by mail. A reservation can be renewed for two additional 60-day periods, allowing a maximum reservation period of 180 days.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent in Missouri

Appointing a registered agent is a mandatory requirement when forming an LLC in Missouri. This individual or entity is responsible for receiving important legal documents, tax forms, and official correspondence on behalf of your LLC.

Who needs a registered agent?

• Domestic LLCs: All LLCs established within Missouri must designate a registered agent.

• Foreign LLCs: LLCs formed outside of Missouri but conducting business within the state are also required to appoint a registered agent in Missouri.

Who can serve as a registered agent?

• You (if you're a Missouri resident): You can act as your own registered agent if you meet the following requirements:
• You are at least 18 years old.
• You have a physical street address in Missouri.
• You are available to receive legal documents during normal business hours
• Individual: A person who is at least 18 years old, resides in Missouri, and has a physical street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). They must be available during standard business hours to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC.
• Business entity: A company authorized to transact business in Missouri that maintains a physical office within the state and is available during standard business hours.
• Registered agent service: If you prefer not to receive legal documents at your personal address, consider hiring a professional registered agent service. These companies provide a physical street address in Missouri for your LLC to receive documents.

Choosing a registered agent service

There are registered agent services throughout Missouri. 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 Missouri-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 registered agent services as part of a package.

Step 3: Complete and file the Articles of Organization for your Missouri LLC

After selecting your LLC's name and appointing a registered agent, the next step in forming your Missouri LLC is to prepare and submit the Articles of Organization.

What is an Articles of Organization?

The Articles of Organization is a legal document that officially establishes your LLC in Missouri. It includes essential details such as your business name, purpose, management structure, registered agent information, and the duration of the LLC. Filing this document with the Missouri Secretary of State legitimizes your business to operate within the state.

Filing your Articles of Organization in Missouri

In Missouri, the Articles of Organization is filed with the Secretary of State's Corporations Division. The standard filing fee is $105 for paper submissions; however, online filings benefit from a reduced fee of $50. 

Filing Options:

Option 1: Online filing

Missouri encourages online submissions through the Secretary of State's online portal. This method is not only cost-effective but also expedites the processing time. To file online, visit the Missouri Secretary of State's online portal. The fee is $50. For more information, see the Step-By-Step Guide to Using the State’s Online Business Filing System. 

Option 2: Mail-in filing

If you prefer to file by mail, download and print the Articles of Organization form (Form LLC 1) from the Missouri Secretary of State's website. Complete the form and prepare a check or money order for the $105 filing fee, payable to the "Director of Revenue." Mail the completed form and payment to:

Corporations Division

James C. Kirkpatrick State Information Center

600 W. Main Street, Room 322

Jefferson City, MO 65101

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

Online filings are typically processed promptly, often immediately. Processing times for mail-in submissions may take several weeks. Documents are processed in the order they are received. 

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

Completing the Articles of Organization form is a fairly simple process since not much information is required. You will be asked to provide:

1. The name of your LLC
2. Business purpose
3. Registered agent
4. Organizer name(s)
5. Duration of the LLC, whether perpetual or for a specific term
6. Your signature

If you are not a Missouri resident:

To conduct business in Missouri as an out-of-state (foreign) limited liability company (LLC), you must register with the Missouri Secretary of State. This involves filing an Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company (Form LLC-4) and meeting specific state requirements.

You must:

• Follow the established Missouri business naming rules
• Provide a Certificate of Good Standing (or Certificate of Existence) from your LLC's home state, issued within 60 days prior to filing.
• Designate a registered agent with a physical street address in Missouri
• Complete and submit Form LLC-4, along with the $105 filing fee, to the Missouri Secretary of State via the online portal or by mail.

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 Missouri. An EIN is a nine-digit number that identifies a business for tax purposes, similar to a Social Security Number for your company.

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.

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

To keep your Missouri business in good legal standing, you must remain compliant with federal and state laws. Here's an overview of compliance requirements:

• Operating agreement
• What it is: An internal document that outlines your LLC’s management structure, member roles, and operational procedures.
• Purpose: It serves as a governing framework for how the business will be run. It helps prevent disputes, clarify decision-making authority, and reinforce liability protection for LLC members.
• Who must have one: Missouri law requires LLCs to have an operating agreement.
• Filing requirement: None. While Missouri law requires LLCs to have an operating agreement, it is not filed with the Secretary of State. The document should be kept with your business records and made accessible to all your LLC members. 
• Beneficial Ownership Information Report
• Filing requirement: Under the Corporate Transparency Act, most LLCs are required to submit a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
• Purpose: This report identifies individuals who own or control the LLC, aiding in the prevention of financial crimes.
• Who must file: All LLCs formed on or after January 1, 2025, must file within 30 days of formation. LLCs formed before this date have until December 31, 2025, to comply.
• How to file: Reports are submitted online through the FinCEN reporting portal.
• Fees: There is no filing fee.
• Business licenses and permits
• Requirement: Certain licenses or permits may be necessary, spending on your LLC’s location and industry.
• Examples: Professional services, healthcare providers, alcohol retailers, and other regulated industries may have special licensing or permit requirements.
• Verification: Consult the Missouri Division of Professional Registration and your local city or county offices for guidance.
• State tax registration
• Requirement: If your LLC will collect state taxes, such as sales tax, you must register with the Missouri Department of Revenue.
• Tax determination: Use the Department's resources to identify applicable taxes for your business.
• Registration methods: Register online through the MyTax Missouri portal.
• Purchase insurance
• Requirement: Depending on your business activities, you may be required to obtain particular types of insurance.
• Examples: Workers’ compensation insurance, commercial auto insurance, and liability insurance, are common types.
• Information: Consult with an insurance or legal expert to determine proper coverage. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations has information on workers’ compensation. 

Types of LLCs to consider in Missouri 

As you establish your LLC, it's essential to understand the various LLC structures available to determine which best aligns with your business objectives.

Single-member LLC

A single-member LLC is owned by one individual or entity, providing liability protection while allowing for simplified management and taxation. In Missouri, a single-member LLC can be 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 who share ownership. This structure offers flexibility in management and profit distribution among members. Multi-member LLCs are typically treated as partnerships for tax purposes, unless they elect to be taxed as a corporation.

Manager-managed LLC

In a manager-managed LLC, members appoint one or more managers to handle the daily operations, allowing non-managing members to act as passive investors.

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 Missouri unless otherwise specified in the Articles of Organization.

Costs of setting up an LLC in Missouri

Establishing an LLC in Missouri involves fees including:

• A one-time fee of $105 to file your Articles of Organization with the Missouri Secretary of State.
• If you choose to hire a registered agent, fees typically start at $50 per year.

Other expenses may include late fees for overdue filings and costs for necessary business licenses or permits, especially if your LLC operates in a regulated industry.

Open a Missouri LLC business account

Opening a dedicated business bank account for your Missouri LLC is essential to maintain liability protection and ensure a clear separation between your personal and business finances. This distinction safeguards your personal assets, streamlines tax filing, enhances bookkeeping efficiency, and bolsters credibility with customers and vendors.

What you'll need 

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

• Your EIN number
• Articles of Organization
• (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 Missouri

Operating an LLC in Missouri requires understanding various tax classifications and obligations at both the federal and state levels.

Federal tax classification

LLCs can choose their federal tax classification, which impacts how they are taxed at the state level:

• Single-member LLCs: By default, these are treated as disregarded entities, meaning income and expenses are reported on the owner's personal federal tax return.
• Multi-member LLCs: These default to partnership taxation, requiring the filing of Form 1065 with the IRS.
• Election as a corporation: LLCs can opt to be taxed as a C corporation or S corporation by filing the appropriate forms with the IRS.

State income tax

Missouri imposes state income tax on personal income, affecting LLC members differently based on their federal tax classification:

Pass-through entities

For LLCs taxed as sole proprietorships, partnerships, or S corporations, profits pass through to members' personal tax returns. Missouri's individual income tax rates are indexed for inflation. Rates range from 2% to 4.7% in 2025. 

C corporations

LLCs electing to be taxed as C corporations are subject to Missouri’s corporate income tax rate, which is 4%.

Sales and use tax

Missouri businesses are subject to sales and use tax:

• Requirement: LLCs selling tangible personal property or taxable services must register to collect and remit sales tax.
• Registration: Businesses must register with the Missouri Department of Revenue to obtain a sales tax permit. The state sales tax rate is 4.225%, with additional local taxes varying by jurisdiction.

Employment taxes

LLCs with employees have specific tax responsibilities:

• Withholding tax: Employers must withhold Missouri state income tax from employee wages and remit them to the Missouri Department of Revenue.
• Unemployment insurance tax: Employers are required to pay unemployment insurance tax to the Missouri Department of Labor. The tax rate ranges from 0.0% to 6.0%, depending on the employer's experience rating.

Missouri-related resources

• Missouri Secretary of State: The Business Services Division handles the creation and maintenance of all business entities operating in Missouri. Through their online services, you can register your business, file necessary documents, search business names, and obtain certificates of good standing.
• Missouri Department of Revenue: The Department of Revenue oversees the state's business tax laws, including sales and use tax, employer withholding, and corporate income tax. Their website provides resources for understanding tax obligations, registering for business taxes, and accessing necessary forms and guidance. 
• Missouri Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Located throughout the state, Missouri SBDCs offer confidential business guidance, training, and other resources for startups and existing small businesses. Services include assistance with business plans, market information, financial analysis, and access to capital.
• Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED): DED provides a comprehensive clearinghouse of information for entrepreneurs starting a new business in Missouri. Their resources include guidance on business planning, export assistance, licensing, financing, and regulatory requirements.
• Missouri Department of Natural Resources: The DNR offers resources to help small businesses understand and comply with environmental regulations. Their Small Business Environmental Assistance Program provides free, confidential consultations on environmental compliance issues, assisting businesses in navigating state and federal requirements.
• Missouri Department of Labor & Industrial Relations: This department promotes industry and labor. It is a resource for information on employment taxes, workers’ compensation, and workplace safety. 

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.