How to Register a Business — Secretary of State and County Clerk

File with the Secretary of State and your county clerk.

Where to go

New businesses are registered with the Secretary of State, with local filings handled at the county clerk's office. Browse every secretary of state in our directory →

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Chosen business name
Search the SOS database first to confirm availability
Registered agent
Name and street address of someone in-state to accept legal mail
Articles of organization (LLC) or incorporation (Corp)
Payment
State filing fee, usually $50-$500
EIN
Free from the IRS site — you'll need it for taxes and banking

Requirements vary by state and county — call the office to confirm before driving in.

Most Secretary of State offices accept online filings the same day. In-person filings get a stamped copy faster.

A DBA (fictitious name) is filed at the county clerk, not the Secretary of State.
You need a registered agent with a real street address in the state — PO boxes are rejected.
Many states require an Initial Report and Annual Report — missing them dissolves the business.
Get your EIN from IRS.gov for free — paid services charge $100+ for the same thing.

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LLC vs Corporation?

LLCs are simpler and have pass-through taxation. Corporations are required if you want to raise venture capital.

Do I need a business license too?

Yes — registration with the state is separate from local business licenses required by your city or county.