2026 Guide

How to Start an LLC in Rhode Island

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

The American LLC Research Team

Formation, Compliance and Tax Research

Last reviewed September 2026

Filing Fee

$150

Processing Time

2–3 business days

Compliance

Annual Report

Rhode Island filing fee, annual report fee and minimum annual tax verified September 2026 against the Rhode Island Secretary of State.

Form Your Rhode Island LLC with Northwest »

$39 + $150 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 Rhode Island.

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 Rhode Island LLC

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

2Assign a Registered Agent

Every Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island (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 $150. This fee is non-refundable. Most entrepreneurs choose to file online for faster approval, which typically takes 2–3 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.

Rhode Island LLC Cost Breakdown

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

ItemEstimated Cost
State Filing Fee (LLC)$150
Annual Report Fee$50
Report Due DateFeb 1 - May 1
Notes & Hidden Costs$400 minimum annual tax plus $50 annual report

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

Start Rhode Island LLC for $39 & Get 1 Year Agent Free

Common Questions in Rhode Island

How much does it cost to start an LLC in Rhode Island?
The state filing fee for a Rhode Island LLC is $150, paid once to the Secretary 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 Rhode Island?
Standard processing in Rhode Island takes about 2–3 business days, though it varies with filing volume.
Does Rhode Island require an Annual Report?
Yes. Rhode Island LLCs must file an annual report with the Secretary of State. The fee is $50, due between February 1 and May 1. Missing it can lead to administrative dissolution.
Is there a minimum annual tax or fee for Rhode Island LLCs?
Rhode Island LLCs owe a minimum annual tax of $400 to the RI Division of Taxation whether or not the business makes a profit, and it is not pro-rated for a partial first year. This is separate from the $50 annual report filed with the Secretary of State.
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 Rhode Island FAQs & Legal Data →

Sources

Rhode Island filing fee, annual report fee and minimum annual tax verified September 2026 against the Rhode Island Secretary 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.