Business Formation in North Carolina
LLC & Corporation formation in North Carolina.
North Carolina formation requirements, filing fees, registered agent rules, and ongoing compliance — for both LLCs and corporations, on one page.
Formation Overview
LLC Formation in North Carolina
North Carolina LLCs file Articles of Organization and an annual report.
Corporation Formation in North Carolina
North Carolina corporations file Articles of Incorporation and an annual report.
Key Filing Requirements
- Filing agency
- North Carolina Secretary of State
- LLC formation document
- Articles of Organization
- Corporation formation document
- Articles of Incorporation
- LLC state filing fee
- $125
- Corporation state filing fee
- $125
- Annual / periodic report
- North Carolina requires an annual report for LLCs and corporations.
- Annual report fee
- $200 mail / $203 online for LLCs; $20 online / $25 paper for corps
- Registered agent requirement
- A registered agent with a physical North Carolina address is required.
- Official state source
- Official Agency Website
Ongoing Compliance
File the annual report by April 15 (LLCs) 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 North Carolina.
Learn about foreign qualificationExplore Other States
North Carolina Formation
Ready to form your company in North Carolina?
Initial formation is $495 plus North Carolina state filing fees. Ongoing maintenance through Nationwide begins the following year at $495 plus applicable state fees. Call 1-888-498-5402.