How To Start An LLC In Virginia In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Virginia, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Old Dominion State.
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Virginia offers an excellent environment for LLC formation with competitive costs and business-friendly regulations. With a $100 state filing fee, strategic location near Washington D.C., and processing times as fast as 24 hours, Virginia is an attractive state for starting your LLC. Whether you're in Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, or anywhere else in the Old Dominion State, you can establish your Virginia LLC quickly and efficiently.
Our top pick for Virginia LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Virginia LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $100 Virginia state fee. With their expertise in Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Virginia LLC Services
Best Overall for Virginia ZenBusiness excels at Virginia LLC formation with their expedited filing option and deep knowledge of Virginia's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Virginia SCC registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Virginia's annual registration requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Virginia entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and fast, accurate filing
Pros
- Fast Virginia LLC filing available
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Virginia annual registration reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Virginia SCC requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Virginia filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fastest Virginia Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Virginia LLC formation with expedited processing options. They provide a free Virginia registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Virginia's annual registration deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Virginia LLC formed quickly and efficiently.
Best For:
Virginia businesses needing fast, reliable formation
Pros
- Expedited Virginia processing available
- Free Virginia registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Virginia compliance
- Dashboard tracks Virginia annual registration
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in VA LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Virginia business formation. Their attorney network includes Virginia-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Virginia businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Virginia businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Virginia law
- Rush filing available for Virginia (1-2 days)
- Comprehensive Virginia legal forms library
- Phone support with Virginia expertise
- 30+ years serving Virginia businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Virginia registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Virginia Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Virginia LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Virginia's thriving tech and government contracting industries, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Virginia business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Virginia creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Virginia business info
- Business cards with Virginia address
- 1-2 day Virginia processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Virginia business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Virginia
Free Virginia Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Virginia LLC formation where you only pay the $100 state fee. They include a free Virginia registered agent for the first year and handle all Virginia SCC filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Virginia entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Virginia entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Virginia LLC formation
- Free Virginia registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Virginia businesses
- Handles Virginia SCC filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Virginia business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Virginia registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Virginia LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Virginia SCC 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:
Virginia entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Virginia businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Virginia SCC filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Virginia LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Virginia filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Virginia LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Virginia's $100 state filing fee. With guaranteed 2-business-day turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Virginia LLC formation process.
Best For:
Virginia businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Virginia formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Virginia-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 Virginia LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Virginia-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 Virginia business needs.
Best For:
Virginia businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Virginia-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Virginia processing available (additional fee)
- Virginia business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Virginia formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Virginia 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 Virginia business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Virginia's specific LLC requirements and annual registration deadlines.
Best For:
Virginia entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Virginia expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Virginia
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Virginia annual registration reminders
- 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 Virginia business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Virginia businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Virginia businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Virginia compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Virginia annual registration 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
Virginia LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Virginia LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Virginia businesses
- ✓ Virginia Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Virginia street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Virginia State Corporation Commission using Form LLC-1011
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Virginia but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Registration: Due by the last day of your anniversary month
Virginia LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $100 (competitive rate)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Registration: $50 per year (due on anniversary month)
- • Business License: Varies by locality ($50-$400)
Virginia LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via Virginia SCC
- • Processing Time: 2-5 business days standard, expedited options available
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 2-7 business days with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Virginia?
Tax Advantages
- • Pass-through taxation
- • Low annual registration fee ($50)
- • Business deductions available
Strategic Location
- • Close proximity to Washington D.C.
- • Major data center hub
- • Thriving tech sector
- • Access to federal contracts
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Limited liability protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Easy Administration
- • Reasonable state filing fee ($100)
- • Fast processing times
- • Minimal ongoing requirements
Virginia LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Virginia?
The Virginia state filing fee is $100, which is competitive compared to other states. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), and the annual registration fee of $50. Most Virginia entrepreneurs spend between $100-$500 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Virginia LLC?
Yes, Virginia law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Virginia 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 Virginia address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Some services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Virginia?
Virginia offers reasonable LLC processing times. With expedited service through providers like ZenBusiness or Bizee, you can have your Virginia LLC processed quickly. Standard processing through the Virginia State Corporation Commission typically takes 2-5 business days. Online filing is generally faster than mail filing.
What is Virginia's annual registration requirement?
Virginia LLCs must file an annual registration by the last day of the anniversary month each year. The registration costs $50 and can be filed online through the Virginia SCC. It updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution and a $25 penalty fee. Most formation services provide reminders and some will file it for you.
Can I form a Virginia LLC if I don't live in Virginia?
Yes, you don't need to be a Virginia resident to form a Virginia LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Virginia 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 Virginia LLCs?
Your Virginia 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 on the Virginia SCC website. Certain words like "bank," "insurance," or "trust" may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for 120 days for a $10 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Virginia Cities for LLCs
- • Arlington
- • Alexandria
- • Fairfax
- • Tysons
- • Richmond
- • Charlottesville
- • Lynchburg
- • Fredericksburg
- • Virginia Beach
- • Norfolk
- • Chesapeake
- • Newport News
- • Roanoke
- • Blacksburg
- • Bristol
- • Danville
Ready to Start Your Virginia LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Virginia LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.