Colorado 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.

All Posts by Steve Goldstein →
Business Formation Expert  |   Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Last updated: 
LLCBuddy™ offers informative content for educational purposes only, not as a substitute for professional legal or tax advice. We may earn commissions if you use the services we recommend on this site.
At LLCBuddy, we don't just offer information; we provide a curated experience backed by extensive research and expertise. Led by Steve Goldstein, a seasoned expert in the LLC formation sector, our platform is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the nuances involved in establishing and running an LLC. We've navigated the intricacies of the industry, sifted through the complexities, and packaged our knowledge into a comprehensive, user-friendly guide. Our commitment is to empower you with reliable, up-to-date, and actionable insights, ensuring you make informed decisions. With LLCBuddy, you're not just getting a tutorial; you're gaining a trustworthy partner for your entrepreneurial journey.
colorado_state_seal

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

Forming an Colorado 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 Colorado, you need to register it with the Colorado Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose Colorado Foreign LLC Name

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

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

Step 2: Select Colorado Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Colorado and take note that a Colorado registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list:

LLC Service

Our Rating & Pricing

Top Features

Learn More

#1 TOP PICK

$0 + State Fees

  • 100% accuracy guarantee

  • Worry-free service

  • Great customer support

  • Established reputation

  • Extras are bit more expensive

  • Good customer support

Step 3: File Registration of Colorado Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Statement of Foreign Entity Authority via email to [email protected] or by mail to Colorado Department of State, 1700 Broadway Suite 550 Denver, CO 80290.

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 Colorado
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Colorado.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $100 application fee.

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

Step 4: Determine How Your Colorado Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Colorado 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 Colorado Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

When you start a foreign LLC registered in Colorado, you need to pay $100 as filing fees. For the online filing process, one has to follow the online filing guidelines. Here’s what you need to do.

  1. Go to the Official Website

    To start the process, visit the Colorado Secretary of State portal. Select the ‘File a Business Document’ from the list given and go to the business document page.
    Colorado Foreign LLC step 1

  2. Create a New Record

    To start registering your Colorado foreign LLC, click on the ‘File a form to create a NEW record’ option on your screen.
    Colorado Foreign LLC step 2

  3. File a Form

    In this section, you will get a list of business types to form. Select “foreign entity” as you are intended to register an out-of-state entity in Colorado.
    Colorado Foreign LLC step 3

  4. True Name Availability Search

    In this section, you need to enter the exact same name of your LLC. In the case of a foreign LLC in Colorado, you have to mention the exact same name of your LLC that is already formed in other states.
    Colorado Foreign LLC step 4

  5. Optional Assumed Entity Name

    If you wish to give your foreign LLC in Colorado a new name, then you can select this option. On the other hand, if you want to stick to the exact name of your LLC then select the option “no” and move on to the next section.
    Colorado Foreign LLC step 5

  6. Statement of Foreign Entity Authority

    This is the main section of the registration process. You will get the form/statement to fill. Enter all the relevant information related to your LLC and click on the “Submit” button. The following sections are to be filled out:

    > Form details
    > Principal Address
    > Registered Agent information
    > Additional Information
    > Delayed Date
    > Email Address
    > Details of the individual who is filing the document

    After entering all the information, hit the “Submit” button to go to the payment page
    Colorado Foreign LLC step 6

  7. Payment

    Finally, make the payment of $100 to complete the online registration process for the Foreign LLC in Colorado.

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 Colorado.

After Forming Colorado Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Colorado 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 Colorado?

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

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 Colorado 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 Colorado

To register as a foreign LLC in Colorado, you can file it online by paying $100 to the Colorado Secretary of State

One of the first expenses to consider when registering a foreign LLC in Colorado is the filing fee. Just like with LLCs formed in the state, foreign LLCs must pay a filing fee to register with the Colorado Secretary of State. This fee covers the administrative costs involved in processing the registration paperwork and integrating the foreign LLC into the state’s database of businesses. It is important for businesses to budget for this expense when planning to operate in Colorado to ensure a smooth registration process.

In addition to the filing fee, foreign LLCs may also incur costs associated with hiring registered agents in the state. Colorado requires LLCs, both foreign and domestic, to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state to receive legal and official documents on behalf of the company. The fees charged by registered agents vary, and foreign LLCs should consider this expense when calculating the overall cost of doing business in Colorado.

Furthermore, foreign LLCs may need to pay for other services, such as obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing from their home state. This certificate attests to the good standing and legal existence of the foreign LLC in its home state and is typically required as part of the registration process in Colorado. While the cost of obtaining this certificate varies depending on the state, it is an essential document that foreign LLCs must factor into their budget when registering in Colorado.

When considering the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Colorado, it is important to remember that these expenses are an investment in the future success of the business. The process of establishing a presence in a new state requires careful planning and financial commitment, but the rewards can be significant. By understanding the costs involved and budgeting appropriately, foreign LLCs can set themselves up for success in Colorado.

In conclusion, the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Colorado can vary depending on various factors such as filing fees, registered agent fees, and other expenses. It is essential for foreign LLCs to carefully consider these costs when planning to expand their operations into the state and to budget accordingly. While the registration process may involve some financial investment, the potential benefits of doing business in Colorado make it a worthwhile endeavor for foreign LLCs looking to grow and succeed in this vibrant state.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Colorado 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.

Leave a Comment