How To Start An LLC In Rhode Island In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Rhode Island, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Ocean State.
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Rhode Island offers strategic advantages for LLC formation with excellent access to major markets. With a $150 state filing fee and efficient processing, Rhode Island is an excellent choice for starting your LLC. Whether you're in Providence, Newport, Warwick, or anywhere else in the Ocean State, you can have your Rhode Island LLC up and running quickly.
Our top pick for Rhode Island LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Rhode Island LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $150 Rhode Island state fee. With their expertise in Rhode Island business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process simple and stress-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Rhode Island LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Rhode Island LLC Services
Best Overall for Rhode Island ZenBusiness excels at Rhode Island LLC formation with their efficient processing and deep knowledge of Rhode Island's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your state registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Rhode Island's annual report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Rhode Island entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable, accurate filing
Pros
- Fast Rhode Island LLC filing
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Rhode Island annual report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Rhode Island requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Rhode Island filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Great Value for Rhode Island Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Rhode Island LLC formation with reliable processing. They provide a free Rhode Island registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Rhode Island's November 1st annual report deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who want solid service at a great price point.
Best For:
Rhode Island businesses seeking reliable formation with good value
Pros
- Fast Rhode Island processing
- Free Rhode Island registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Rhode Island compliance
- Dashboard tracks Rhode Island May 1st annual report deadline
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in RI LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Rhode Island business formation. Their attorney network includes Rhode Island-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Rhode Island businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Rhode Island businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Rhode Island law
- Expedited filing available for Rhode Island
- Comprehensive Rhode Island legal forms library
- Phone support with Rhode Island expertise
- 30+ years serving Rhode Island businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Rhode Island registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Rhode Island Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Rhode Island LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Rhode Island's diverse business landscape, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Rhode Island business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Rhode Island creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Rhode Island business info
- Business cards with Rhode Island address
- Standard Rhode Island processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Rhode Island business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Rhode Island
Free Rhode Island Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Rhode Island LLC formation where you only pay the $150 state fee. They include a free Rhode Island registered agent for the first year and handle all state filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Rhode Island entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Rhode Island entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Rhode Island LLC formation
- Free Rhode Island registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Rhode Island businesses
- Handles state filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Rhode Island business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Rhode Island registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Rhode Island LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Rhode Island state registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Rhode Island entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Rhode Island businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Rhode Island state filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Rhode Island LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Rhode Island filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Rhode Island LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Rhode Island's $150 state filing fee. With transparent pricing and everything included, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want simplicity without hidden costs in their Rhode Island LLC formation process.
Best For:
Rhode Island businesses needing everything done with transparent pricing
Pros
- Comprehensive Rhode Island formation package
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Rhode Island-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Rhode Island LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Rhode Island-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Rhode Island business needs.
Best For:
Rhode Island businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Rhode Island-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Standard Rhode Island processing
- Rhode Island business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Rhode Island formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Rhode Island LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Rhode Island business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Rhode Island's specific LLC requirements and annual reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Rhode Island entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Rhode Island expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Standard processing for Rhode Island
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Rhode Island annual report reminders (May 1st deadline)
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Rhode Island business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Rhode Island businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Rhode Island businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Rhode Island compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Rhode Island annual report filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (7-10 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Rhode Island LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Rhode Island LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Rhode Island businesses
- ✓ Rhode Island Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Rhode Island street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Rhode Island Secretary of State
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Rhode Island but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Report: Due between February 1st and May 1st each year
Rhode Island LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $150 ($152.50 online with processing fee)
- • Registered Agent: $125-$300/year (or free if self-serving)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Report: $50 per year (due between February 1st and May 1st)
- • Annual Tax: $400 minimum regardless of profit/loss
- • Business License: Varies by city/municipality ($50-$400)
Rhode Island LLC Timeline
- • Name Check: Online search available through Secretary of State
- • Processing Time: Varies by filing method (online is faster)
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: Typically within one week with professional service
Why Form Your LLC in Rhode Island?
Tax Advantages
- • No franchise tax on LLCs
- • Pass-through taxation benefits
- • Sales tax exemptions on business equipment
- • Small business incentive programs available
Strategic Location
- • 45 minutes from Boston
- • 3 hours from New York City
- • Access to major shipping terminals
- • Growing healthcare and financial sectors
Legal Protections
- • Limited liability protection
- • Creditor protection benefits
- • Privacy for LLC members
- • Flexible management structure
Business Environment
- • Business-friendly regulations
- • Thriving innovation ecosystem
- • Access to skilled workforce
- • Strong professional networks
Rhode Island LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Rhode Island?
The Rhode Island state filing fee is $150 ($152.50 online). Additional costs include a registered agent ($125-$300/year, though you can serve as your own), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), annual report fee of $50, and the required annual tax of $400. Most Rhode Island entrepreneurs spend between $150-$600 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Rhode Island LLC?
Yes, Rhode Island law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Rhode Island street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Rhode Island address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Many services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island LLC processing times vary depending on the filing method and current state workload. Online filings are generally processed faster than mail submissions. With professional formation services, you can typically get your Rhode Island LLC approved within a reasonable timeframe including all necessary steps like EIN application and registered agent setup.
What is Rhode Island's annual report requirement?
Rhode Island LLCs must file an annual report between February 1st and May 1st each year, starting the year after formation. The report costs $50 and can be filed online. It updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Additionally, all LLCs must pay an annual tax of $400 regardless of profit or loss. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution.
Can I form a Rhode Island LLC if I don't live in Rhode Island?
Yes, you don't need to be a Rhode Island resident to form a Rhode Island LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Rhode Island street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Rhode Island LLCs?
Your Rhode Island LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through the Rhode Island Secretary of State website. Certain words may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for 120 days for a $50 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Rhode Island Cities for LLCs
- • Providence
- • Warwick
- • Cranston
- • Pawtucket
- • Newport
- • East Providence
- • Woonsocket
- • Cumberland
- • Westerly
- • Narragansett
- • South Kingstown
- • Middletown
- • North Kingstown
- • West Warwick
- • Bristol
- • Johnston
Ready to Start Your Rhode Island LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Rhode Island LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.