Iowa LLC Certificate of Organization – How to Register?


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
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If you are forming an LLC in Iowa, 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 an Iowa certificate of organization, which we will elaborate on this page.

What is a Certificate of Organization?

A Certificate of Organization, also known as an LLC certificate or Articles of Organization 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. A Certificate 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 a Certificate 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 an Iowa Certificate of Organization

These are the simple steps to follow in filing a Certificate of Organization in Alabama.

Step 1: Find Forms Online

Go to the Iowa Secretary of State to download the certificate 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 Iowa 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 Certificate 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 Secretary of State, Lucas Building, 1st Floor, 321 E. 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319.

Filing Iowa Articles of Organization Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

If you want to form an LLC in the State of Iowa, you need to file for the Articles of Organization. The State of Iowa does not have any standard or prescribed format of the document, rather it accepts a self-formed document that abides with their State Regulation. After approval by the State, you shall receive a receipt, an acknowledgment letter, and an approved copy of your Certificate of Organization. The formation guide in the following steps will help you file for the articles of the organization so read on and get the info.

  1. Visit the official website of the State of Iowa

    The State of Iowa has introduced a Fast Track Filing system which is a one-stop solution for filing every business entity document, biennial reports, and UCCs.

  2. Create your Account

    If you have already registered your account on the website, click on the “log in” option and proceed to fill in your login credentials and access your account. If you do not have an account, click on the “Sign-up” option on the page.

  3. Fill in your details

    Enter your information to sign up for a new account such as your First and Last name, Organization, Address, Email, and password. Click on the tab “Sign-Up”.

  4. Proceed with registration

    After confirmation of your account on the State website, log in with your username and password and proceed to register your business in Iowa by applying for Articles of Organization.

  5. Scan the documents

    After drafting the application for Certificate of Organization, scan and upload them on your computer system.

  6. Business Entity Filings Page

    Visit a page similar to the Business Entity Filings Page on your account (this is for reference purposes, and does not depict the actual filing page on your fast track filings account page).

  7. Enter the details

    In the File type section, “Certificate of Organization”. In the next section, select your payment method, and then your address, phone, and email.

  8. Upload PDF document

    Select the “Choose File” option in this section and locate your signed application for Certificate of Organization and select upload.

  9. Submit the application

    Review your information and click on the “send” option.

Filing Iowa Articles of Organization by Mail

If you wish to file your Articles of Organization via mail, read the instructions below to learn more about drafting suitable articles of organization as per the requirements of the State.

  1. Access the statutory requirements issued by the State of Iowa here.
  2. Follow these guidelines while drafting your certificate of organization.
    • One or more than one person can act as organizers to form an LLC by signing the documents for filing a Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of State.
    • Add a column to specify the name of your LLC, which should follow the naming guidelines of the State.
    • The form must also mention the street address of the registered office and also the details of the registered agent for service of process in the company.
  3. Satisfying the above mentioned conditions, complete your application for a certificate of organization.
  4. Mail your document to the following address: Secretary of State, Lucas Building, 1st Floor, 321 E. 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319.

Cost of Filing Articles of Organization in Iowa

The Cost of Filing generally varies depending on the mode of application, such as mail, fax, or online mode. Nevertheless, in Iowa, the cost is the same irrespective of the mode of transaction.

  • Cost of online filing costs $50.
  • Cost of filing via mail costs $50.

F.A.Qs

What is a Certificate of Organization?

A Certificate of Organization is a legal document that will officially make your LLC into existence. This document is needed specifically for Alabama in forming an LLC business structure.

What information does a Certificate of Organization application need?

The application form for the Certificate 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 a Certificate 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 Iowa LLC Certificate of Organization

Certificate of Organization for Iowa LLC can be accessed through the Iowa Fast Track Filing portal. You can draft your own Certificate of Organization by reading the LLC statute requirements mentioned.

The first place to look for your LLC Certificate of Organization is in your own records. When you filed the necessary paperwork to form your LLC, you should have received a copy of this document from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office. Be sure to keep this document in a safe and accessible location, such as a filing cabinet or digital folder, so that you can easily refer to it when needed.

If you are unable to locate your LLC Certificate of Organization in your own records, you may be able to request a copy from the Iowa Secretary of State’s office. Many states, including Iowa, offer online portals where you can access and download various business documents, including your LLC Certificate of Organization. Simply log into the Secretary of State’s website, search for your company name, and look for the option to download or request a copy of your certificate.

Another option for finding your Iowa LLC Certificate of Organization is to contact the Iowa Secretary of State’s office directly. By calling or visiting their office in person, you can speak with a representative who can assist you in locating and obtaining a copy of this important document. Be sure to have your LLC’s name and any relevant identification numbers or filing dates on hand when making this request.

In some cases, you may need to provide your LLC Certificate of Organization to banks, creditors, or other business partners as proof of your company’s legal status. It is crucial to keep this document up-to-date and readily available for such situations. If your certificate is missing or outdated, be sure to take steps to rectify the situation promptly to avoid any potential complications or delays in your business operations.

In conclusion, your Iowa LLC Certificate of Organization is a vital document that proves your company’s legal status and registration with the state. It is essential to keep this document readily accessible and up-to-date to ensure smooth business operations and compliance with state regulations. By checking your own records, accessing online portals, or contacting the Iowa Secretary of State’s office, you can easily find and obtain a copy of your LLC Certificate of Organization when needed.

In Conclusion

Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation is the most important document for your Iowa 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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