Can I Form an LLC Online in New York?

Yes. New York allows you to file your Articles of Organization online through the Department of State's filing portal at https://filing.dos.ny.gov/. The standard filing fee is $200, and online filings are acknowledged within minutes. You can choose expedited processing (24 hours for $25, same-day for $75, or 2 hours for $150).

How to File Online

Submit your Articles of Organization to the New York Department of State, Division of Corporations. Your filing must include under N.Y. Ltd. Liab. Co. Law § 203:

Your LLC name with an approved designator (Limited Liability Company, LLC, or L.L.C.)
The New York county where your principal office will be located
Designation of the Secretary of State as your agent for service of process
The mailing address where the Secretary of State should send service documents
Your name, address, and signature as organizer

Any person or business entity may serve as organizer—you don't need to be a member. New York permits single-member LLCs and foreign owners.

Name Requirements

Your LLC name must be distinguishable from existing LLCs, corporations, and limited partnerships on file with the Department of State. Search available names free at https://apps.dos.ny.gov/publicInquiry/.

Avoid restricted words including Bank, Insurance, University, College, and Attorney (N.Y. Ltd. Liab. Co. Law §§ 204, 1212(b)). You may reserve a name for $20 for 60 days before filing.

After Formation

If you operate under a name different from your LLC's legal name, file a Certificate of Assumed Name (DBA) with the Department of State for $25.

Although not required by statute, adopt an operating agreement to govern member rights, profit distribution, and management structure. This protects your limited liability status.

Apply for an EIN from the IRS if you have employees or plan to open a business bank account.

Contact the Department of State

Phone: (518) 473-2492
Address: One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231
Website: https://dos.ny.gov/

This is general information, not legal advice.