West Virginia LLC — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in West Virginia?
The state filing fee to form an LLC in West Virginia is $100. That's one of the more affordable states to form an LLC. On top of that, plan for $25 each year in annual report fees. Our pricing is straightforward: $199 to prepare and file your Articles, $100 to the West Virginia Secretary of State, and $99/year if you'd like us as your agent for service of process. EIN and operating agreement help are optional add-ons.
How long does it take to form an LLC in West Virginia?
Standard processing runs 5-7 business days. If you pay $25 for expedited service, you can usually get to 24 hours. We file on your behalf and notify you as soon as the West Virginia Secretary of State processes the formation.
Does West Virginia require an annual report for LLCs?
Yes, every year. The fee is $25. Missing the filing deadline can lead to late fees and eventually administrative dissolution by the West Virginia Secretary of State.
Do I need an agent for service of process for my West Virginia LLC?
Yes. Every LLC registered with the West Virginia Secretary of State is required to maintain an agent for service of process with a physical West Virginia address. This is true from the moment you file your formation documents and remains true for as long as the LLC exists. Our annual agent for service of process fee is $99, billed independently of the $199 formation service.
Can I form an LLC in West Virginia if I live in another state?
Yes. You don't have to be a West Virginia resident to form a West Virginia LLC. You do, however, need an agent for service of process with a physical West Virginia address — which our agent for service of process service covers at $99/year, billed separately.
Do I need an operating agreement for my West Virginia LLC?
West Virginia doesn't require you to file an operating agreement with the state, but you absolutely should have one. Banks require it to open a business account. Courts rely on it in disputes. Without one, West Virginia's default LLC rules apply — which may not match your intentions. Our operating agreement template is a paid optional add-on, separately priced from formation.
How do I get an EIN for my West Virginia LLC?
Apply directly on IRS.gov — it's free and takes about 10 minutes. You'll receive your EIN immediately after completing the online application. Never pay a third party for an EIN. Our EIN application help is a separately-priced add-on. Going direct via IRS.gov is also free and takes about ten minutes.
What's included in your formation service?
Here's what the $199 fee buys: we prepare and file your West Virginia Articles of Organization with the state. That's it. The $100 state fee goes directly to the West Virginia Secretary of State. Registered agent, operating agreement, and EIN are each separate optional services.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out Monday through Friday and we'll answer any questions about forming an LLC in West Virginia or how our services work.