// Formation — Georgia

How to File an LLC in Georgia: Step-by-Step Guide

📖 8 min read⭐ Quick Win💰 $100 filing fee📅 February 2026

Georgia is one of the fastest-growing business states in the Southeast — low cost of living, a massive logistics hub (Atlanta's airport is the busiest in the world), and a straightforward LLC filing process. $100 to file, $50/yr annual registration, no surprises.

Georgia LLC Quick Facts

$100 filing fee (online) or $110 (mail)

$50/year annual registration

5.49% flat income tax (personal income, as of 2024)

No publication requirement

Online filing through the Georgia Corporations Division

Same-day processing available for online filings

Georgia's flat tax advantage: Georgia moved to a flat 5.49% income tax rate in 2024, down from a graduated system that peaked at 5.75%. This makes tax planning simpler and the effective rate competitive with other southeastern states.

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Step 1

Choose Your LLC Name

Search availability at the Georgia Secretary of State business search. Must include "LLC," "L.L.C.," or "Limited Liability Company." Name reservations available for $25 (good for 30 days).

Step 2

Designate a Registered Agent

Must be a Georgia resident or a business entity authorized to do business in Georgia with a physical Georgia address. You can be your own agent. Services run $50–$300/yr.

Step 3

File Articles of Organization

File online at Georgia Corporations Division. You'll need: LLC name, principal office address, registered agent info, organizer name and address, and management structure. Fee: $100 (online). Processing: typically same-day for online filings.

Step 4

Publish Notice of Formation

Georgia has a publication requirement — but it's cheap. Within a reasonable time after formation, you should publish a notice of intent to form an LLC in the newspaper designated for legal notices in your county. This typically runs once per week for two consecutive weeks. Cost: $40–$150 depending on county. While enforcement is lax, completing this step protects you legally.

Step 5

Get Your EIN

Free at IRS.gov — see our EIN guide.

Step 6

Operating Agreement and Bank Account

Not legally required but essential. See our Operating Agreement guide and Banking guide.

Annual Requirements

RequirementDue DateCost
Annual RegistrationApril 1 each year (beginning the year after formation)$50
State Income Tax ReturnApril 155.49% flat rate
Don't miss the April 1 annual registration. Georgia will administratively dissolve your LLC if you fail to file. The late filing penalty is $25, plus you'll need to reinstate ($100 fee) if it's dissolved.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or tax advice. Requirements vary by county. Consult a qualified attorney or CPA for your specific situation.