Arizona LLC Requirements

Updated for 2026 · Official Secretary of State Website

Arizona offers one of the lowest filing fees in the country at just $50, with no annual report requirement. However, most LLCs must publish a notice of formation in a local newspaper, though businesses in Maricopa and Pima Counties (Phoenix and Tucson metro areas) are exempt. Arizona's growing economy and business-friendly environment make it popular with entrepreneurs relocating from higher-cost states.

Filing Fee

$50

One-time state fee

Annual Fee

Per year

Processing

Same day to 7 business days

Online filing

Deadline

N/A

Annual report due

Publication Requirement

Must publish notice of formation in a local newspaper within 60 days for 3 consecutive publications. LLCs in Maricopa or Pima County are exempt. Cost: ~$80-$120.

Below Average Cost

Arizona's $50 filing fee and $0 annual costs make it one of the cheapest states for LLC formation and maintenance. Publication costs ($80-$120) apply to some counties but are a one-time expense.

Notable Facts About Arizona LLCs

LLCs in Maricopa and Pima Counties are exempt from the publication requirement
Arizona charges no annual report fee and requires no annual filing for LLCs
The state has a flat 2.5% individual income tax rate, one of the lowest in the nation
Arizona's filing fee of $50 is among the five cheapest in the United States

Tax Information for Arizona LLCs

Arizona has a flat 2.5% individual income tax rate. LLCs taxed as pass-through entities pay tax at individual rates. There is no franchise tax or separate business entity tax for standard LLCs. A Transaction Privilege Tax (sales tax equivalent) applies to certain business activities.

Formation Steps

1

Choose a Name for Your LLC
Select a unique business name that complies with Arizona naming requirements. The name must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" and cannot be the same as an existing registered business in Arizona.
2

Appoint a Registered Agent
Designate a registered agent with a physical address in Arizona who can receive legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your LLC.
3

File Articles of Organization
Submit your Articles of Organization (also called a Certificate of Formation in some states) to the Arizona Secretary of State. This is the official document that creates your LLC.
4

Publish Notice of Formation
Arizona requires you to publish a notice of your LLC's formation in approved local newspapers. Check your state's specific publication requirements for deadlines and approved publications.
5

Create an Operating Agreement
Draft an operating agreement that outlines ownership percentages, member roles, profit distribution, and management structure of your LLC. While not always legally required, it is strongly recommended.
6

Get an EIN from the IRS
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. You'll need this for opening a business bank account, hiring employees, and filing taxes.
7

Open a Business Bank Account
Open a dedicated business bank account to keep your personal and business finances separate. This helps maintain your LLC's liability protection.

Visit Official SOS Website

Need a Registered Agent in Arizona?

Every Arizona LLC must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. A registered agent service ensures you never miss important legal documents or compliance deadlines.

Compare Registered Agent Services

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Arizona?

The state filing fee to form an LLC in Arizona is $50 for the Articles of Organization. This cost is below average compared to other states. Additional costs may include a registered agent service ($50-$300/year) and an operating agreement if you hire an attorney.

What is the annual cost of an LLC in Arizona?

Arizona does not require LLCs to file an annual report or pay an ongoing annual fee to the state. Arizona's $50 filing fee and $0 annual costs make it one of the cheapest states for LLC formation and maintenance. Publication costs ($80-$120) apply to some counties but are a one-time expense.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Arizona?

Online filing in Arizona typically takes Same day to 7 business days. You'll need to file Articles of Organization with the state. Processing times may vary based on filing volume and the time of year.

Do I need a registered agent in Arizona?

Yes, Arizona requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a physical street address in the state. The registered agent receives legal documents, tax notices, and official government correspondence on behalf of your LLC.

What taxes does a Arizona LLC pay?

Does Arizona require an operating agreement for LLCs?

While not all states legally require an operating agreement, it is strongly recommended for every LLC in Arizona. An operating agreement defines ownership structure, member roles, and how the business will be managed. Without one, your LLC will be governed by Arizona's default LLC laws.

What is the publication requirement for a Arizona LLC?

Must publish notice of formation in a local newspaper within 60 days for 3 consecutive publications. LLCs in Maricopa or Pima County are exempt. Cost: ~$80-$120.