Tennessee LLC Formation Guide
Everything you need to form an LLC in Tennessee — fees, timelines, and step-by-step filing instructions.
| State | Tennessee |
| Abbreviation | TN |
| Filing fee | $300 |
| Processing time | 5 business days |
| Expedited available | Yes |
| Online filing | Yes |
| Annual report fee | $300 |
| Annual report due | April 1 |
| Registered agent required | Yes |
| State tax on LLC | No (pass-through only) |
Tennessee-specific notes
Filing fee is $50 per member (minimum $300, maximum $3,000). Annual report also $300 minimum. Strong asset protection laws. No state income tax on wages.
How to form an LLC in Tennessee — step by step
Search your business name
Verify your desired LLC name is available in Tennessee. The name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." Use the Tennessee Secretary of State business search tool.
Choose your registered agent
Designate a registered agent with a physical Tennessee address available during business hours. You can serve as your own agent or use a registered agent service ($50–$300/year).
File articles of organization
Submit your articles of organization to the Tennessee Secretary of State online. Pay the $300 filing fee. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
Wait for approval
Standard processing takes approximately 5 business days. Expedited options are available if you need faster approval. You will receive a stamped copy of your articles once approved.
Create an operating agreement
Draft an operating agreement outlining ownership, management structure, profit sharing, and member responsibilities. Tennessee does not require an operating agreement by law, but it is strongly recommended for all LLCs.
Get your EIN
Apply for a federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) free at IRS.gov. Takes about 10 minutes online. Required for business bank accounts, hiring employees, and filing taxes.
Open a business bank account
Use your EIN, articles of organization, and operating agreement to open a dedicated business checking account. Keeping business and personal finances separate is essential for maintaining your liability protection.
File annual reports & pay taxes
File your Tennessee annual report ($300) by April 1 each year. Keep your registered agent updated and pay any applicable state taxes.
Want someone to handle the Tennessee filing for you?
These services file your Tennessee LLC articles of organization and handle registered agent setup.
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