2026 Guide

How to Start an LLC in Pennsylvania

The complete guide to filing fees, Department of State forms, and requirements.

The American LLC Research Team

Formation, Compliance and Tax Research

Last reviewed September 2026

Filing Fee

$125

Processing Time

3–5 business days

Compliance

Annual Report

Pennsylvania filing fee, annual report fee and name reservation fee verified September 2026 against the Pennsylvania Department of State.

Form Your Pennsylvania LLC with Northwest »

$39 + $125 state fee · first year of registered agent service included · we may earn a commission

Step 1: Choose Your Business Type

Select your industry to see a custom guide for Pennsylvania.

Home Improvement & Construction

Handyman→Electrician→Plumbing→HVAC→Roofing→Solar Panel→Construction→Painting→Fencing→Flooring→

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning→Pressure Washing→Car Detailing→Pool Cleaning→Pest Control→Landscaping→Home Inspection→Junk Removal→

Digital & Technology

Web Design→App Development→Cybersecurity→Digital Marketing→Graphic Design→Freelance Writing→Virtual Assistant→Dropshipping→YouTuber→

Professional & Business

Real Estate→Accounting→Bookkeeping→Consulting→Notary Public→Logistics→Trucking→Travel Agency→Airbnb→

Food, Retail & Events

Food Truck→Catering→Bakery→Coffee Shop→Vending Machine→Clothing Brand→Candle Making→Event Planning→Photography→

Personal Care & Education

Personal Training→Gym→Life Coaching→Daycare→Tutoring→Dog Walking→Interior Design→

1Name Your Pennsylvania LLC

The first listing requirement is ensuring your business name is unique. It must be distinguishable from other entities registered with the Department of State. You must also include a designator like "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to comply with state statutes.

2Assign a Registered Agent

Every Pennsylvania LLC must appoint a Registered Agent. This individual or business entity agrees to accept legal documents (Service of Process) on behalf of your company. They must have a physical street address in Pennsylvania (not a P.O. Box) and be available during regular business hours.

3File Articles of Organization

To officially create your entity, you must file the Articles of Organization with the state. The filing fee is $125. This fee is non-refundable. Most entrepreneurs choose to file online for faster approval, which typically takes 3–5 business days.

4Get Your EIN & Bank Account

Once your LLC is approved, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. This nine-digit number is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Keeping your business finances separate from personal accounts is critical for maintaining your liability protection.

Pennsylvania LLC Cost Breakdown

The cost to open an LLC in Pennsylvania includes both the initial filing fee and ongoing compliance fees. Here is the breakdown:

ItemEstimated Cost
State Filing Fee (LLC)$125
Annual Report Fee$7
Report Due DateSept 30
Notes & Hidden CostsChanged in 2025 (Was every 10 years)

* Fees are payable to the Department of State and are subject to change.

Start Pennsylvania LLC for $39 & Get 1 Year Agent Free

Common Questions in Pennsylvania

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Pennsylvania?
The state filing fee for a Pennsylvania LLC is $125, paid once to the Department of State. If you use a formation service, you pay this state fee plus the service's own charge.
How long does it take to get an LLC in Pennsylvania?
Standard processing in Pennsylvania takes about 3–5 business days, though it varies with filing volume.
Does Pennsylvania require an Annual Report?
Yes. Pennsylvania LLCs must file an annual report with the Department of State. The fee is $7, due by September 30. Missing it can lead to administrative dissolution.
Is there a minimum annual tax or fee for Pennsylvania LLCs?
Pennsylvania introduced a $7 annual report fee for LLCs starting in 2025, due by September 30 each year — replacing the old decennial (every 10 years) report. Pennsylvania has no LLC newspaper publication requirement; that obligation applies only to corporations and fictitious name (DBA) registrations.
Do I need to file a BOI report with FinCEN for my LLC?
No — not if your LLC was formed in the United States. FinCEN's interim final rule of March 2025, made permanent by a final rule on August 14, 2026, exempts all U.S.-created companies, including LLCs, and their U.S. owners from Beneficial Ownership Information reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act. Only entities formed under foreign law that register to do business in a U.S. state must still report. Be wary of mailers or emails demanding a BOI filing fee.
View all Pennsylvania FAQs & Legal Data →

Sources

Pennsylvania filing fee, annual report fee and name reservation fee verified September 2026 against the Pennsylvania Department of State.

Cost ranges for startup, insurance, job rates and revenue are estimates, not figures from these sources. Fees change; confirm with the agency before you file.