How To Start An LLC In Washington DC In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Washington DC, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the nation's capital.
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Washington DC offers an exceptional environment for LLC formation. With a $99 filing fee, highly educated workforce, and strategic location at the center of government and policy, DC is an excellent choice for starting your LLC. Whether you're in downtown DC, Georgetown, or anywhere else in the District, you can have your Washington DC LLC up and running efficiently.
Our top pick for Washington DC LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer fast processing for DC LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $99 DC fee. With their expertise in DC 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 Washington DC 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 Washington DC LLC Services
Best Overall for DC ZenBusiness excels at Washington DC LLC formation with their efficient filing process and deep knowledge of DC's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your DLCP registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in DC's biennial report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all District regulations.
Best For:
DC entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable, accurate filing
Pros
- Fast DC LLC filing with expedited options
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes DC biennial report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with DC requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on DC filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Great DC Value Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers efficient Washington DC LLC formation with competitive processing times. They provide a free DC registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks DC's April 1st biennial report deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their DC LLC formed cost-effectively and reliably.
Best For:
DC businesses needing reliable formation at great value
Pros
- Fast DC processing within 5-15 business days
- Free DC registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for DC compliance
- Dashboard tracks DC biennial reports
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in DC LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Washington DC business formation. Their attorney network includes DC-licensed lawyers who can provide District-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for DC businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing in the nation's capital.
Best For:
DC businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for DC law
- Rush filing available for DC (expedited options)
- Comprehensive DC legal forms library
- Phone support with DC expertise
- 30+ years serving DC businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- DC registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best DC Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Washington DC LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for DC's thriving professional services and government contracting sectors, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional DC business presence online and offline.
Best For:
DC creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with DC business info
- Business cards with DC address
- Standard DC processing timeline
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for DC business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for DC
Free DC Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Washington DC LLC formation where you only pay the $99 fee. They include a free DC registered agent for the first year and handle all DLCP filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for DC entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious DC entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free DC LLC formation
- Free DC registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for DC businesses
- Handles DLCP filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- DC business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 10-15 business days
- DC registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Washington DC LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your DC DLCP 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:
DC entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for DC businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles DC DLCP filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward DC LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for DC filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Washington DC LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus DC's $99 filing fee. With guaranteed fast turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their DC LLC formation process.
Best For:
DC businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed fast DC formation processing
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- DC-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 Washington DC LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to DC-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 DC business needs.
Best For:
DC businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to DC-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush DC processing available (additional fee)
- DC business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- DC formation takes 10-15 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Washington DC 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 DC business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand DC's specific LLC requirements and biennial reporting deadlines.
Best For:
DC entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with DC expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for DC
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- DC biennial report reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 10-15 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Washington DC business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established DC businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
DC businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing DC compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- DC biennial report filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services in DC
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (10-15 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Washington DC LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Washington DC LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other DC businesses
- ✓ DC Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a DC street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by DC but highly recommended
- ✓ Biennial Report: Due by April 1st every 2 years
Washington DC LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $99 (competitive among US jurisdictions)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Biennial Report: $300 every 2 years (due by April 1st)
- • Business License: Varies by industry ($50-$400)
Washington DC LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Check availability through DLCP system
- • Processing Time: 5-15 business days (expedited options available)
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 1-3 weeks with expedited service
Why Form Your LLC in Washington DC?
Strategic Location
- • Center of federal government and policy
- • Access to decision makers and influencers
- • Strong government contracting opportunities
- • Global accessibility and connections
Educated Workforce
- • Highly educated talent pool
- • Strong tech and entrepreneurial talent
- • 20+ colleges and universities
- • Median age 35 with experienced professionals
Business Incentives
- • Tech incentive packages available
- • Reduced corporate tax rates
- • Various grants and rebates available
Business Environment
- • Stable and diverse economy
- • Strong professional services sector
- • Growing technology industry
- • Access to capital and funding
Washington DC LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Washington DC?
The Washington DC filing fee is $99. 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 biennial report fee of $300 every two years. Most DC entrepreneurs spend between $99-$500 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Washington DC LLC?
Yes, DC law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a DC 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 DC 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 Washington DC?
Washington DC LLC processing typically takes 5-15 business days through the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). Expedited service is available for an additional fee, which can reduce processing times. Online filing is generally faster than mail filing, and some formation services offer rush processing options.
What is Washington DC's biennial report requirement?
Washington DC LLCs must file a biennial report every 2 years by April 1st, starting the year after formation. The report costs $300 and can be filed online through the DLCP system. It updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution. Most formation services provide reminders and some will file it for you.
Can I form a Washington DC LLC if I don't live in DC?
Yes, you don't need to be a DC resident to form a Washington DC LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a DC 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 Washington DC LLCs?
Your Washington DC LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the District. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability through the DLCP system. 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 Washington DC Areas for LLCs
- • Georgetown
- • Dupont Circle
- • Adams Morgan
- • Foggy Bottom
- • Downtown
- • Penn Quarter
- • Logan Circle
- • Shaw
- • Capitol Hill
- • H Street Corridor
- • Union Market
- • Brookland
- • Navy Yard
- • Anacostia
- • Capitol Riverfront
- • Congress Heights
Ready to Start Your Washington DC LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Washington DC LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.