Idaho Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an Idaho 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 Idaho.

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

Step 1: Choose Idaho Foreign LLC Name

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

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

Step 2: Select Idaho Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Idaho and take note that an Idaho 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 Idaho Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for a Registration form by mail to the Office of the Secretary of State, 450 N 4th Street, P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0080.

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 Idaho.
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Idaho.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.
File Online

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

Step 4: Determine How Your Idaho Foreign LLC is taxed

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

Time needed: 5 minutes

When you are registering for the foreign LLC in the State of Idaho, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of foreign LLC with the Secretary of State which costs $100. After approval, you will receive a Verification Certificate from the State Office. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Idaho Foreign LLC.

  1. Go to the Official State of Idaho Website

    Visit the Idaho Online Business Services on the Idaho Secretary of State website. The platform offers an easy option to file business entity documents.

  2. File Online

    On the page, click on the “Business” tab available as the third option on the left corner of the page. The page offers online application filing options for different types of business entities. On that page, go to the option “Foreign Registration Statement” and select the option of “Foreign Registration Statement (Limited Liability Company)”. A box containing the details of the registration will appear on your screen. Next, click “File Online”.

  3. Create your Account

    The link will navigate you to the Idaho SOSbiz login Page, where you must first register your account before proceeding with any further filing process. If you have already created an account on the page, then fill in your username and password and continue to “Log in”. In case you do not have an account, then click on the “Create an Account” option available on the left bottom side of the page.

  4. Create your Idaho Account

    Proceed to fill in your details on the following page, such as first and last name, email address, phone number, and password.

  5. Information

    After the creation of your Account, proceed with the registration and business filing online on your account. Enter all the important information.

  6. Payment

    Complete the payment: Finally, make the payment online. Once done, you will receive a notification regarding the completion of the filing of your Idaho LLC.

Steps to Register for your Foreign LLC via Mail

  1. Visit the website: Open the Idaho Secretary of State Paper Forms page. After the page opens up, click on the tab “Limited Liability Company”.
  2. The tab will direct you to the section containing the Foreign Limited Liability Companies forms. In this section, click on the link “Foreign Registration Statement”.
  3. The link will direct to the Foreign Registration Statement Form of the State of Idaho. Download the Application Form PDF on your system.
  4. Read the instructions carefully and fill out the application form. It is mandatory to type your details in the form and then get it printed.
  5. Make the payment of $120 in the name of “Idaho Secretary of State”. If you require an expedited service, an additional $40 should be added to the filing fees.
  6. After you complete the application form, mail your application to the following address: Office of the Secretary of State 450 N 4th Street PO Box 83720 Boise, ID 83720-0080.

After Forming Idaho Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Idaho 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.

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 a foreign LLC in Idaho.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in Idaho?

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

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 Idaho 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 Idaho

To register as a foreign LLC in Idaho, you can file through mail by paying $100 for typed form or $120 for hand-filled to the Idaho Secretary of State.

The process of registering a foreign LLC in Idaho involves several steps and associated costs. The first and most crucial step is to obtain a Certificate of Authority to transact business in the state. This document is essentially a permission granted by the Idaho Secretary of State’s office allowing a foreign LLC to operate within the state’s borders. The fee for obtaining a Certificate of Authority can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the foreign LLC, such as its size, industry, and structure. It is essential for foreign companies to thoroughly research and understand the different factors that could impact this cost before proceeding with their application.

In addition to the initial cost of obtaining a Certificate of Authority, foreign LLCs are also required to pay annual filing fees to maintain their status as a registered entity in the state of Idaho. These fees are typically due on or before the anniversary of the LLC’s registration date. Failure to pay the annual filing fees can result in penalties and possible suspension or revocation of the foreign LLC’s authority to conduct business in Idaho. It is crucial for foreign companies to keep track of these ongoing costs and to budget for them accordingly to ensure compliance with state regulations.

There are other potential costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Idaho that companies should be aware of as well. For example, some foreign LLCs may need to obtain a business license depending on the nature of their operations in the state. The cost of a business license can vary depending on factors such as the type of business, its location, and its annual revenue. Foreign companies should also consider other potential expenses, such as legal and accounting fees, that may arise during the registration process.

Despite the costs involved in registering a foreign LLC in Idaho, many companies find that the benefits of establishing a presence in the state far outweigh the initial financial investment. Idaho offers a diverse and growing economy, a skilled workforce, and numerous opportunities for business growth and development. By taking the time to understand the costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Idaho and planning accordingly, companies can position themselves for long-term success in the state.

Overall, while the costs of registering a foreign LLC in Idaho can vary depending on several factors, companies should view them as an investment in their future growth and success. By carefully considering and budgeting for these expenses, foreign companies can take advantage of the many opportunities that Idaho has to offer and establish a strong presence in the state’s thriving business community.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Idaho 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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