Business Formation in Iowa
LLC & Corporation formation in Iowa.
Iowa formation requirements, filing fees, registered agent rules, and ongoing compliance — for both LLCs and corporations, on one page.
Formation Overview
LLC Formation in Iowa
Iowa LLCs file a Certificate of Organization and a biennial report.
Corporation Formation in Iowa
Iowa corporations file Articles of Incorporation and a biennial report.
Key Filing Requirements
- Filing agency
- Iowa Secretary of State
- LLC formation document
- Certificate of Organization
- Corporation formation document
- Articles of Incorporation
- LLC state filing fee
- $50
- Corporation state filing fee
- $50
- Annual / periodic report
- Iowa requires a biennial report.
- Annual report fee
- $30
- Registered agent requirement
- A registered agent with a physical Iowa address is required.
- Official state source
- Official Agency Website
Ongoing Compliance
File the biennial report and maintain a registered agent.
LLC Management
Member- or manager-managed per the operating agreement.
Corporation Directors & Officers
At least one director and officer required.
Foreign Qualification
Foreign entities may obtain a Certificate of Authority in Iowa.
Learn about foreign qualificationExplore Other States
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Iowa Formation
Ready to form your company in Iowa?
Initial formation is $495 plus Iowa state filing fees. Ongoing maintenance through Nationwide begins the following year at $495 plus applicable state fees. Call 1-888-498-5402.