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

Oklahoma offers a promising environment for new businesses, making it a great place to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. As you prepare to launch your venture in the Sooner State, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing the right business structure. 

From sole proprietorships and partnerships to corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs), each type affects how your business is taxed, how much personal liability you carry, and how your company operates day-to-day. Selecting the right structure lays the foundation for how your business is managed and protected. Many small business owners find that an LLC structure fits their needs. 

Jump to:

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

Why choose an LLC in Oklahoma?

Choosing an LLC structure can be smart for entrepreneurs looking for both flexibility and protection. An LLC, or limited liability company, separates your personal assets from your business responsibilities. This means if your business faces legal action or debt, your personal property, like your home or car, is typically protected.

LLCs also benefit from pass-through taxation, so the profits and losses flow through to the members’ personal tax returns, helping you avoid double taxation. Plus, the process to register an LLC is relatively straightforward through the Oklahoma Secretary of State, making it accessible for first-time business owners and experienced entrepreneurs alike.

Whether you’re opening a small shop in Tulsa or launching a service-based business in Oklahoma City, forming an LLC gives you a solid legal foundation with manageable requirements and valuable tax perks. This guide will walk you through the LLC formation steps you need to know—from filing paperwork and paying fees to tax considerations and tips for staying organized with accounting software.

New business data in Oklahoma in 2025

Oklahoma's business environment is experiencing significant growth, marked by substantial investments and job creation within the past year. In 2024, the state recorded 75 announcements for new and expanding companies, totaling a potential investment of $5.19 billion and the creation of at least 5,564 new jobs. Notably, 17 of these companies established a new presence in Oklahoma, underscoring the state's appeal to diverse industries. 

To further stimulate economic development, Oklahoma launched the Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP), allocating $15 million to support high-impact capital investments across various sectors. This initiative aims to diversify the state's economy, foster new product development, and enhance the capacity of existing companies. 

The Quality Jobs incentive program provides quarterly cash rebates of up to 5% of newly created taxable payroll for up to 10 years to qualifying businesses. Aimed at manufacturers and select service companies with projected payrolls of $2.5 million or more, this program is yet another reflection of the state’s commitment to fostering a pro-business climate.

5 steps for creating an LLC in Oklahoma

Ready to form your LLC in Oklahoma? You’ll need to choose a unique business name, file the required paperwork with the state, and obtain an EIN—along with some other key tasks. This guide breaks down each step to help you get your LLC up and running.

Step 1: Choose a name for your Oklahoma LLC

The first step in forming your LLC is to choose your business name. It should be memorable and reflect your business. You can be creative, but your business name must also comply with Oklahoma’s specific naming requirements. 

Oklahoma LLC naming rules

When choosing a name for your LLC, you'll need to meet specific state requirements:

The name must be distinct

• Your LLC name must be distinguishable from other names already registered with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. To check availability, use the Business Entities Search tool on the Oklahoma Secretary of State website or call the Secretary of State at (405) 522-2520.

Must include a designator

The name of your LLC must contain one of the following terms or abbreviations:

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

Avoid prohibited or restricted words

Some words require special approval or are restricted entirely. These include terms that:

• Suggest the business is a bank, trust, or insurance company (e.g., “Bank,” “Trust,” “Insurance”).
• Imply affiliation with a government agency (e.g., “FBI,” “Treasury”) For example, if your company sells natural soda additives as beverage flavorings, you couldn’t use “NSA, LLC” as a name because NSA stands for National Security Agency.
• Are obscene, deceptive, or imply illegal activity.

If you want to use a restricted term, you may need to submit documentation or receive approval from a relevant regulatory agency.

Use only acceptable characters

• Oklahoma requires business names to be filed using standard letters (A–Z), numbers (0–9), and a limited range of symbols. Unusual or special characters may be rejected.

What makes a name distinguishable?

In Oklahoma, making an LLC name distinguishable involves ensuring it significantly differs from existing names on file with the Secretary of State. If you have a name similar to another business, it may still be distinguishable if it includes the following:

• A unique element. Adding a surname with different initials or specifying a unique location. For example, "E. G. Williams Electric company" is distinct from "Williams Electric company."
• Geographical information. A designation such as "Oklahoma" or "OKC" might not always be enough to distinguish a name, but may be considered unique if it significantly alters the name's meaning or context.

What does not make a name distinguishable?

The following factors do not make a business name unique: 

• Punctuation and symbols. Variations in punctuation, spaces, or symbols (e.g., "A B C Corp." vs. "ABC Corp.").
• Articles of speech. Differences in articles of speech (e.g., "The Sampson Co." vs. "Sampson Co.").
• Variations in statutory words. Using different variations of required statutory words (e.g., "Limited Liability Company" vs. "L.L.C.") is not sufficient to make a name distinguishable from an existing one.

Reserve your LLC name

If your desired business name is available but you're not quite ready to register, you can file a name reservation to hold the name for up to 60 days. Remember that this does not register your business; it's simply a way to temporarily secure the name while you complete the rest of your paperwork. You can request your name reservation online at the Oklahoma Secretary of State website. 

Step 2: Choose a registered agent in Oklahoma

Forming an LLC in Oklahoma requires designating a registered agent. This person or business accepts legal documents, tax notices, and official correspondence on behalf of your LLC. The registered agent must have a physical street address in Oklahoma (P.O. boxes aren’t accepted) and be available during regular business hours.

Who needs a resident agent?

• Every LLC formed in Oklahoma must appoint a registered agent.
• Foreign LLCs registering in Oklahoma must also name an in-state registered agent, even if they already have one in their home state.

Who can be a registered agent?

• You (if you're an Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma.
• You are available to receive legal documents during standard business hours.
• Individual: An adult (at least 18 years old) who resides in Oklahoma and meets the requirements above. 
• Business entity: A company authorized to conduct business in Oklahoma can act as a registered agent, provided it maintains a physical office within the state and is available during standard business hours.
• Registered agent service: You can also hire a commercial registered agent service. These services maintain a physical address in Oklahoma and receive documents on your LLC’s behalf. 

Choosing a resident agent service

There are resident agent services available throughout Oklahoma. If you’re considering 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 Oklahoma-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 and file your Oklahoma LLC

After finalizing your LLC name and appointing a registered agent, your next step is to file the Articles of Organization with the Oklahoma Secretary of State to legally create your LLC.

What are the Articles of Organization?

The Articles of Organization is a legal document that provides essential information about your LLC, including its name, principal office address, registered agent details, and management structure. Filing this document with the Oklahoma Secretary of State legally forms your LLC.

Filing the Articles of Organization in Oklahoma

You have two options for submitting your Articles of Organization:

Option 1: File online

You can file electronically through the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s online portal. The standard filing fee is $100. 

Option 2: File by mail

You can also submit a paper form by mailing it to the Secretary of State's office. Download the Articles of Organization (Form SOS LLC 001) from the Business Forms page. Complete the form and mail it along with a check or money order for $100 to:

Secretary of State – Business Filing Department

421 NW 13th Street, Suite 210

Oklahoma City, OK 73103

You can also choose to drop off the form in person for an additional $25 fee.

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

Online filings are typically processed within 1 to 2 business days. Mailed filings generally take 5 to 7 business days to process, depending on volume.

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:

• The name of your LLC
• The name and address of your registered agent
• Principal place of business address
• Email address for the primary contact
• The duration of the LLC, if not perpetual
• Signature

If you are not an Oklahoma resident

If your LLC was formed in another state and you intend to conduct business in Oklahoma, you must register as a foreign LLC with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. Follow these steps to give your out-of-state company the authority to legally operate within Oklahoma.

1. File an Application for Registration (Foreign LLC). Submit the Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company (Form 0081) with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. This form can be filed online or by mail.
2. Provide a Certificate of Good Standing. You must include a Certificate of Good Standing (or Certificate of Existence) from your home state, dated within 60 days of the application.
3. Appoint a registered agent in Oklahoma. Your business must have a registered agent with a physical street address in Oklahoma who can receive service of process during regular business hours.
4. Pay the filing fee. The filing fee for a foreign LLC registration is $300.

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 Oklahoma. 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 for Oklahoma LLCs

To keep your Oklahoma LLC in good standing, you must meet specific state compliance requirements each year. These include filings, registrations, and other legal responsibilities.

• Oklahoma Annual Certificate (Annual Report)
• Filing requirement: All domestic and foreign LLCs operating in Oklahoma must file an Annual Certificate.
• Due date: Each year by the anniversary date of your LLC’s formation or registration.
• Filing method: File online through the Oklahoma Secretary of State Business Services portal.
• Fee: $25.
• 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 needs to 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: Depending on your LLC’s location and industry, certain licenses or permits may be necessary.
• Examples: Retail sales, food service, alcohol sales, professional services, and childcare all require specific permits.
• Verification: Consult the Oklahoma Business Hub, your local city or county offices, or your professional organization for guidance.
• State tax registration
• Requirement: If your LLC will collect state taxes, such as sales tax, you must register with the Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC).
• How to register: File online using Oklahoma Taxpayer Access Point (OkTAP).
• Purchase insurance
• Requirement: Depending on your business activities, you may be required to obtain specific types of insurance, such as:
• Workers’ compensation insurance, mandatory for businesses with one or more employees.
• Commercial auto insurance
• Liability insurance
• Information: Consult with an insurance or legal expert to determine proper coverage for your LLC.
• Employer withholder tax registration
• Requirement: If your LLC has employees, you're required to withhold Oklahoma state income tax from wages.
• Registration: Register online using Oklahoma Taxpayer Access Point (OkTAP).
• Filing frequency: After registration, you'll be assigned a filing frequency (e.g., monthly, quarterly) based on your anticipated payroll. 
• Compliance: Accurate withholding and timely filing help avoid penalties and interest.

For the most current requirements and forms, visit the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s official site and the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

Types of LLCs to consider in Oklahoma

Understanding the different LLC structures available is important to determine which is the best for your business.

Single-member LLC

A single-member LLC has only one owner (member). This structure provides limited liability protection and is often taxed as a disregarded entity by default, meaning profits and losses are reported on the owner's personal federal tax return.

In Oklahoma, single-member LLCs follow the same formation and reporting requirements as multi-member LLCs. You’ll still need to file an Annual Certificate each year and maintain a registered agent in Oklahoma.

Multi-member LLC

A multi-member LLC is owned by two or more individuals or entities. By default, it’s treated as a partnership for federal tax purposes, unless the members elect to be taxed as a corporation. Members can decide how profits, losses, and responsibilities are divided by creating an Operating Agreement, though it's not required by state law.

Member-managed LLC

In a member-managed LLC, all members have the authority to make decisions and run the day-to-day operations of the business. This is the default management type in Oklahoma unless otherwise stated in your Articles of Organization. This structure is ideal for small businesses where owners want to be actively involved.

Manager-managed LLC

A manager-managed LLC delegates management duties to one or more designated managers, who may or may not be members. This allows some members to serve as passive investors, while the appointed managers handle daily operations. To form a manager-managed LLC in Oklahoma, you must clearly indicate this structure in your Articles of Organization when filing with the Secretary of State.

Professional LLC (PLLC)

A professional LLC is formed by licensed individuals to offer regulated professional services such as law, medicine, accounting, or engineering. All members must be licensed in the profession the PLLC provides. In Oklahoma, you must use the specific Articles of Organization for a Professional LLC and include the licensing board information. The business name must include “PLLC” or “Professional Limited Liability Company.”

Costs of setting up an LLC in Oklahoma

Starting an LLC in Oklahoma involves the following state-required fees and potential expenses:

• $100 one-time filing fee to submit your Articles of Organization. 
• If you choose to use a commercial registered agent, expect to pay approximately $50 to $150 per year.
• $25 annual certificate fee, due each year on the anniversary of your LLC’s formation. 

Additional costs may apply for business licenses or permits, depending on your LLC’s industry and local requirements.

Open a business bank account for your Oklahoma LLC

Opening a dedicated business bank account for your Oklahoma LLC is an important step toward protecting your personal assets and keeping your business finances organized. A separate account helps maintain your LLC’s liability protection, simplifies tax preparation, improves bookkeeping, and presents a more professional image to clients and vendors.

What You'll Need

When opening a business bank account in Oklahoma, you'll typically need:

• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Copy of your Articles of Organization
• Operating Agreement (if applicable)
• Personal identification

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

After opening your business bank account, using QuickBooks accounting software can help manage your finances efficiently, supporting accurate recordkeeping and simplifying tax preparation.

LLC taxes in Oklahoma

Operating an Oklahoma LLC involves understanding your tax obligations at both the federal and state levels. Your LLC's tax classification and business activities will determine what taxes apply.

Federal tax classification

LLCs in Oklahoma follow the same federal tax classifications set by the IRS:

• 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

Oklahoma taxes income passed through from LLCs or earned directly by corporations:

Pass-through entities

LLCs taxed as sole proprietorships, partnerships, or S corporations pass profits to members' individual returns. As of 2025, Oklahoma’s individual income tax rate ranges from 0.25% to 4.75%, depending on income level.

C corporations

LLCs taxed as corporations pay the Oklahoma corporate income tax rate of 4%.

Sales and use tax

Oklahoma businesses are subject to sales and use tax:

• Requirement: LLCs must collect and remit state and local sales tax on retail sales of tangible personal property and certain services.
• Registration: Obtain a sales tax permit by registering through Oklahoma Taxpayer Access Point (OkTAP)
• Rates: The state sales tax rate is 4.5%, and local rates may increase the total rate depending on city or county location. Use the Oklahoma Sales Tax Rate Locator to verify local rates.

Employment taxes

If your LLC has employees, you’ll need to comply with both state and federal employment tax requirements:

• Withholding tax: Employers must withhold Oklahoma state income tax from employee wages and remit it through OkTAP.
• Unemployment insurance (UI) tax: All Oklahoma employers must register with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) and pay UI tax. Payments must be made through the online portal EzTax Express via an electronic fund transfer or credit card. The 2025 taxable wage base is $28,200. UI contribution rates range from 0.3% to 9.2% based on experience rating. The rate for new employers is 1.5%.

Oklahoma-related resources

• Oklahoma Secretary of State: Handles business entity formation, registration, and maintenance, including filing Articles of Organization for LLCs.
• Oklahoma Tax Commission (OTC): Manages state tax registration, including sales tax permits, income tax withholding, and other business-related taxes.
• Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC): Oversees unemployment insurance taxes and employer registration for businesses that hire employees.
• Oklahoma Commerce: Offers business support services, market research, and economic development programs to help companies grow in Oklahoma.
• Oklahoma Business Hub: A centralized state portal that guides entrepreneurs through the steps of starting and managing a business in Oklahoma, from planning to licensing to operating and more. 

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.