How To Start An LLC In Washington In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Washington, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the Evergreen State.
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Washington offers excellent advantages for LLC formation, despite higher filing fees. With a $200 state filing fee and no state income tax, Washington provides a business-friendly environment with strong economic growth. Whether you're in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, or anywhere else in the Evergreen State, you can establish your Washington LLC quickly and efficiently.
Our top pick for Washington LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer expedited processing for Washington LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $200 Washington state fee. With their expertise in Washington 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 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 LLC Services
Best Overall for Washington ZenBusiness excels at Washington LLC formation with their fast filing option and deep knowledge of Washington's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Washington Secretary of State registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team is well-versed in Washington's annual report requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Washington entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and accurate filing
Pros
- Fast Washington LLC filing available
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Includes Washington annual report reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Washington requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Washington filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fastest Washington Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast Washington LLC formation with guaranteed quick processing. They provide a free Washington registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Washington's annual report deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who need their Washington LLC formed immediately.
Best For:
Washington businesses needing the fastest possible formation
Pros
- Fast Washington processing guaranteed
- Free Washington registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Washington compliance
- Dashboard tracks Washington annual 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 WA LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Washington business formation. Their attorney network includes Washington-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Washington businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Washington businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Washington law
- Rush filing available for Washington (1-2 days)
- Comprehensive Washington legal forms library
- Phone support with Washington expertise
- 30+ years serving Washington businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Washington registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Washington Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Washington LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Washington's thriving tech and creative industries, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Washington business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Washington creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Washington business info
- Business cards with Washington address
- 1-2 day Washington processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Washington business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Washington
Free Washington Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Washington LLC formation where you only pay the $200 state fee. They include a free Washington registered agent for the first year and handle all Secretary of State filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Washington entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Washington entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Washington LLC formation
- Free Washington registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Washington businesses
- Handles Washington Secretary of State filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Washington business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Washington registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Washington LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Washington Secretary of 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:
Washington entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Washington businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Washington Secretary of State filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Washington LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Washington filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Washington LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Washington's $200 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 Washington LLC formation process.
Best For:
Washington businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed 2-business-day Washington formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Washington-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 LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Washington-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 Washington business needs.
Best For:
Washington businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Washington-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Washington processing available (additional fee)
- Washington business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Washington formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Washington 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 Washington business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Washington's specific LLC requirements and annual reporting deadlines.
Best For:
Washington entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Washington expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Washington
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Washington annual report 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 Washington business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Washington businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Washington businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Washington compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Washington 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
Washington LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Washington LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Washington businesses
- ✓ Washington Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Washington street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Certificate of Formation: Filed with Washington Secretary of State
- ✓ Initial Report: Must be filed within 120 days of formation
- ✓ Business License: Required from Washington Department of Revenue
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Washington but highly recommended
Washington LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $200 ($180 by mail + $20 processing fee online)
- • Business License: $50+ (required from Department of Revenue)
- • Registered Agent: $100-300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-150 through formation services
- • Annual Report: $70 per year (due by anniversary month)
Washington LLC Timeline
- • Name Approval: Instant online check via Washington Secretary of State
- • Processing Time: 2 business days for standard online processing
- • Initial Report: Must be filed within 120 days
- • 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 Washington?
Tax Advantages
- • No state income tax
- • Business & Occupation (B&O) tax on gross receipts
- • Small business B&O tax credit available
- • Business-friendly tax structure
Business Environment
- • Strong, diverse economy
- • Thriving tech sector
- • Major international trade hub
- • Access to Pacific markets
Legal Protections
- • Strong asset protection laws
- • Charging order protection
- • Privacy for members
- • Flexible management structure
Quality Infrastructure
- • Well-developed transportation
- • Major ports for trade
- • High quality of life
- • Educated workforce
Washington LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Washington?
The Washington state filing fee is $200 (or $180 by mail plus $20 processing fee online). Additional required costs include a business license from the Department of Revenue ($50+), 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 report fee of $70. Most Washington entrepreneurs spend between $270-600 total to form their LLC, depending on which services they choose.
Do I need a registered agent for my Washington LLC?
Yes, Washington law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Washington 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 Washington address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability. Many formation services include the first year free.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Washington?
Washington LLC processing typically takes 2 business days for standard online filing through the Washington Secretary of State. With expedited service through providers like ZenBusiness or Bizee, you can have your Washington LLC processed faster. Remember that you also need to file an Initial Report within 120 days of formation and obtain a business license, which can add to the overall timeline.
What is Washington's annual report requirement?
Washington LLCs must file an annual report by the last day of the anniversary month each year. The report costs $70 and can be filed online through the Washington Secretary of State. 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 LLC if I don't live in Washington?
Yes, you don't need to be a Washington resident to form a Washington LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Washington 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 business license requirements exist for Washington LLCs?
Most Washington LLCs need to obtain a business license from the Washington Department of Revenue. This requires filing a Business License Application (BLA). The total cost is typically $50+ depending on your business type. This is in addition to the LLC formation fee and is required for most businesses operating in Washington.
Popular Washington Cities for LLCs
- • Seattle
- • Tacoma
- • Bellevue
- • Everett
- • Spokane
- • Yakima
- • Tri-Cities
- • Walla Walla
- • Vancouver
- • Olympia
- • Centralia
- • Longview
- • Bellingham
- • Mount Vernon
- • Anacortes
- • Ferndale
Ready to Start Your Washington LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Washington LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.