DC LLC Articles of Organization – How to Register?


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 are forming an LLC in DC, then this page’s content would be vital. As you learn how to start an LLC, you will realize that the bulk of your initial work and cost comprises filing DC articles of organization, which we will elaborate on this page.

What is an Article of Organization?

An Article of Organization, also known as an LLC certificate or Certificate of Formation in some states, is a document filed with the secretary of state to form an LLC.

Each state has a different requirement to fill out a form. An Article of Organization usually includes the following:

  • The name of the LLC,
  • the effective date of the LLC,
  • the company’s principal office,
  • the business purpose,
  • the duration of the business,
  • a copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate, and
  • the name and address of the registered agent, organizers, and
  • at least one member of the company.

You can file an Article of Organization online, by mail, or in person.

Note that the certification of formation is a legal requirement, not to mention, the core of your LLC formation. It even makes up the bulk of your LLC cost. Without it, you have no LLC. So, take the time to complete and file this certificate.

How to File DC Articles of Organization

These are the simple steps to follow in filing an Article of Organization in DC.

Step 1: Find Forms Online

Go to the DC Secretary of State to download the article of organization form for your LLC or to log into the online service.

Step 2: Fill Out Form

When filling out the form, you must have reserved an LLC name. Do a name search. Go to DC LLC Name Search to check whether your chosen business name is available to use in this state.

You must attach a copy of your Name Reservation to your filled-out Article of Organization form when filing. You also need to nominate a registered agent. Here are 3 of the best LLC services on our list.

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Step 3: File Formation Certificates

File your formation certificate either online or by mail by filling out a form and sending it to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs Corporations Division PO Box 92300 Washington, DC 20090.

Filing DC Articles of Organization Online

If you want to form an LLC in DC, you need to file for the article of organization. You can do this online and you can file for it through mail too. When you go for the online filing, it also helps to get the benefit of immediate processing too. The formation guide in the following steps will help you file for the articles of the organization so read on and get the info.

Time needed: 5 minutes

If you want to file the article of organization by mail, then you can easily do that. By following the instructions below, one can file the article of organization in DC.

  1. Visit the following website.

  2. On the page, click on “Sign-up”.

  3. Fill in the required details such as email ID, Name, Password, and Mobile Phone.

  4. Next, click on the “Register” option.

  5. After registration, from their user homepage, select Limited Liability Company under the “Domestic” List.

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

  7. Fill in the other relevant details.

  8. Submit your application.

Filing DC Articles of Organization Mail

If you want to file the article of organization by mail, then you can easily do that. By following the instructions below, one can file the article of organization in DC

  1. Download the PDF application form.
  2. Read the instructions carefully and fill the form up with correct information.
  3. If you wish to reserve the name of your LLC, you can attach the name reservation certificate with the application forms.
  4. Send all the documents to the mailing address, Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Corporate Division, PO Box 92300, Washington DC 20090, Phone: (202) 442 – 44325.
  5. You can also submit in person to the following address: Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs, 1100 4th Street SW, Washington DC, 20024.

Cost of Filing DC Articles of Organization

It is more convenient to file an article of organization online than by mail. Here is the cost of filing a formation certificate in DC.

  • Online filing cost $220
  • In-person filing cost $320

Where Can You Find Your District of Columbia LLC Articles of Organization

When setting up a Limited Liability Company (LLC), one of the essential documents you’ll need to acquire is the Articles of Organization. This document formally establishes your LLC and provides crucial information about your business. Whether you’re starting a new venture or already managed an LLC, it’s vital to know where to find your District of Columbia LLC Articles of Organization.

In the District of Columbia, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) is the central authority responsible for overseeing the registration and management of business entities, including LLCs. They hold the key to obtaining your Articles of Organization.

To obtain a copy of your LLC’s Articles of Organization, you can start by visiting the DCRA’s website. Navigating their user-friendly interface, you’ll find a dedicated section specifically for Limited Liability Companies. Here, you’ll follow the prompts to access the necessary forms and information.

The DCRA provides different methods to obtain Articles of Organization. One such option is through their online portal. After arriving at the corresponding webpage, you’ll need to input specific information regarding your LLC, such as the name and date of formation. By filling out the necessary details ‒ and, of course, paying any required fees ‒ you can generate and download your Articles of Organization directly from the online platform.

Another approach to obtain your Article of Organization is by visiting the District of Columbia’s physical DCRA location. These offices are conveniently located throughout the region, making it possible for individuals to acquire important documents in person. When visiting an office, a DCRA representative will gladly assist you through the process and provide you with a hard copy of your Articles of Organization.

In certain cases, time is of the essence when it comes to obtaining this important document. Fortunately, the District of Columbia recognizes the importance of quick access to business records and offers expedited services. This means that, for an additional fee, you can have your Articles of Organization processed and obtained in an expedited manner, saving you valuable time in your business operations.

It is important to note that LLC Articles of Organization extended beyond a mere piece of paper. This document is the foundation of your business in the District of Columbia, serving as concrete proof that your LLC legally exists. Additionally, your Articles of Organization contains important information that must be accurately reported during your LLC’s formation and management, encompassing details such as the business name, members, registered agent, and office address. Therefore, keeping a copy of your Articles of Organization in a safe and easily accessible place is crucial for future reference and potential legal obligations.

In conclusion, your District of Columbia LLC Articles of Organization can be found through the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). Online platforms and physical DCRA locations both offer easy access to this vital document. Remember, accurate record-keeping is an essential step for running a successful business; hence, your Articles of Organization should be safely preserved alongside other important business records. The DCRA ensures businesses have all the resources they need to obtain these essential documents swiftly and efficiently, ultimately contributing to the vibrant business environment of the District of Columbia.

F.A.Qs

What is an Article of Organization?

An Article of Organization is a legal document that will officially make your LLC into existence. This document is needed, specifically for DC in forming an LLC business structure.

What information does an Article of Organization application need?

The application form for the Article of Organization needs to include the LLC name, date of establishment, the company’s registered office, business purpose, how long the business will exist, and a copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate.

What is the recommended method of filing an Article of Organization, online or by mail?

Filing by mail or in person is neither highly recommended nor required; waiting an extra week for your LLC to be approved isn’t that bad. The LLC approval you send in will be returned by mail. Online filing, meanwhile, is more convenient as you won’t have to stay in a queue.

Where Can You Find Your District of Columbia LLC Articles of Organization

So where exactly can you find your District of Columbia LLC Articles of Organization?

The first step in this process is to visit the District of Columbia Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) website. Here, you’ll find all the information you need to get started with the LLC formation process. The DCRA website is a valuable resource that will guide you through the necessary steps, forms, and requirements for starting your business.

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the requirements for filing your LLC Articles of Organization, you can download the necessary forms directly from the DCRA website. The Articles of Organization form for the District of Columbia is known as “DCLS-804.” This form will ask for essential information about your LLC, such as the name of the company, the registered agent’s name and address, the LLC’s principal place of business, and the name and address of the LLC members or managers.

After completing the DCLS-804 form, you will need to file it with the DCRA along with a filing fee. The fee for filing your LLC Articles of Organization will vary depending on how you choose to submit the form – whether online, in-person, or by mail. It’s essential to double-check the fee amounts on the DCRA website to ensure that you have the correct amount when it’s time to file.

Filing your LLC Articles of Organization with the DCRA is an important step in the business formation process. Once your form is submitted and processed, you’ll receive a Certificate of Organization from the DCRA. This certificate serves as proof that your LLC has been officially formed and is recognized as a legal entity in the District of Columbia.

It’s crucial to keep your Certificate of Organization in a safe place, as you may need to provide it when opening a business bank account, entering into contracts, or applying for business licenses and permits.

If you’re unsure about the LLC formation process or need assistance with filing your Articles of Organization, professional services are available to help you navigate the steps. Legal professionals and business consultancies can guide you through the process, ensuring that your LLC formation is smooth and compliant with all regulations.

In conclusion, filing your District of Columbia LLC Articles of Organization is an essential step in establishing your business. By following the guidelines provided by the DCRA and seeking assistance when needed, you can ensure that your LLC formation is successful and legally compliant.

In Conclusion

Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation is the most important document for your D.C. LLC. Before you submit/file the document make sure to provide proper and correct information about your company. If you have any questions, share that below in the comment section.

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