DC Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an LLC in DC, then starting an LLC would be somewhat different. You must register as a foreign LLC. We have here a guide on how you can qualify for and register as a DC foreign LLC.

Forming an DC Foreign LLC

A foreign LLC does not need to be a company from another country but a business formed under the laws of another state. To start a foreign LLC in DC, you need to register it with the DC Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose DC Foreign LLC Name

Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the DC Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of DC will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in DC. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.

Check name availability at DC’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.

Step 2: Select DC Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in DC and take note that a DC registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:

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Step 3: File Registration of DC Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email to [email protected] or by mail to Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Corporations Division PO Box 92300 Washington, DC 20090.

Include the following:

  • LLC’s full legal name.
  • A fictitious name or a DBA (only if your LLC’s legal name is not available); Attach a statement of adoption of the fictitious name signed by all LLC members.
  • LLC’s principal office and mailing addresses.
  • LLC formation state and date.
  • Registered agent’s name and address in DC.
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in DC.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.

The LLC cost in DC, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.

Step 4: Determine How Your DC Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the DC Business Privilege Tax, and they must file LLC annual reports each year.

Note that forming a foreign LLC would be good for your business as you can legally operate in a different state thus reaching a larger market and opening more opportunities for higher profit.

Steps to Filing DC Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

If an LLC is originally registered in another State and intends to operate its business in DC, it shall be considered as a foreign LLC. To register your business in the District of Columbia, you are required to file a Foreign Registration Statement with the DCRA. The application fee for the registration of a foreign LLC in DC is $220. The registration statement form can be filed online or by mail or in person. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for DC Foreign LLC online.

  1. Visit the official DCRA CorpOnline Portal

    To register a foreign LLC in DC online, one needs to sign-up with the DCRA CorpOnline Official Site. The website will lead you to the Online Services Accessibility portal of the DC government.

  2. Sign-in

    On the page, you will get the options to “sign-in with Access DC” and “Sign-up” options in case you don’t have an Access DC Account. If you are already registered with the website, then you need to log in using the correct credentials. If you don’t have an existing account then create your account on ct.gov by clicking on “Sign-up now”.

  3. Create account

    On the opening page, fill in the required details such as your email ID, Name, Password, and Mobile Phone.

  4. Register

    After filling in the required details, click on the “Register” option.

  5. ‘Limited Liability Company’ option

    After registration, from their user homepage, select the option of ‘Limited Liability Company’ under the “Foreign” List.

  6. “DLC-1 LLC/PLLC Articles of Organization Web” option

    After this step, choose the option of “DLC-1 LLC/PLLC Articles of Organization Web” on the webpage and proceed with the registration.

  7. Fill-in details

    Fill in the other relevant details as required in the form.

  8. Review your information

    Review the information filled in the form and then submit your application for account registration. After registration of your CorpOnline account with the Secretary of State of Connecticut, proceed with the application for registration of your foreign LLC with the Secretary of State office.

    In case of non-compliance with the registration requirements, the business entity can be held liable for back reports and fees under Form FN-1. Visit the DCRA Website for information, forms, and other instructions for registering a foreign LLC in DC.

It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. The steps are very easy and that’s why it’s possible to go along with the steps and form the foreign LLC in DC.

After Forming DC Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your DC Foreign LLC

  1. Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
  2. File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
  3. Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in DC?

If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in DC.

Do I need a foreign LLC?

Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.

What is the main difference between domestic and foreign LLC?

A domestic LLC is a company registered in DC as an LLC. The entity type that has a physical presence in another state is a foreign LLC.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in District of Columbia

To register as a foreign LLC in District of Columbia, you can file through mail or online by paying $220 to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

One of the main costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia is the filing fee. This fee covers the administrative costs of processing the necessary paperwork and establishing the LLC in the district. The filing fee is a one-time expense that must be paid when submitting the required documents to the Secretary of State’s office. While the exact amount of the filing fee may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the business, it is important for entrepreneurs to budget for this cost when planning to register a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia.

In addition to the filing fee, there may be other costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia. For example, businesses may need to pay for a registered agent service, which helps to ensure that the LLC complies with all legal requirements and receives important mail and notifications in a timely manner. Hiring a registered agent can be an additional expense for businesses but can provide valuable support throughout the registration process and beyond.

Other costs to consider when registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia may include legal fees for consulting with an attorney, fees for obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service, and expenses for any necessary licenses or permits. These costs can add up quickly, so businesses should carefully consider their financial resources and obligations before proceeding with registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia.

Despite the costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia, there are many benefits to expanding a business into this area. The district offers a robust economy, a skilled workforce, and access to a wide range of amenities and resources that can help businesses thrive. By carefully considering the costs involved in registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia and planning accordingly, entrepreneurs can position their businesses for success in this dynamic and vibrant market.

Overall, while there are costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in the District of Columbia, these expenses are necessary for businesses looking to establish a presence in the area. By understanding the financial implications of the registration process and budgeting accordingly, entrepreneurs can navigate the requirements with confidence and lay the groundwork for a successful business venture in the District of Columbia. With careful planning and consideration, businesses can overcome the initial costs of registration and seize the opportunities that this vibrant market has to offer.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in D.C. does not require a lot of documentation or tasks. However, it is always good to seek help from a professional when it comes to running your business. Get a professional registered agent and form your foreign LLC anywhere without a hassle.

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