How to Start an LLC in Missouri
Forming an LLC in Missouri costs $50 in state filing fees, paid to the Missouri Secretary of State. Here is the full process, the real costs and the Missouri-specific rules most guides skip.
What it costs
| Item | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee (Missouri Secretary of State) | $50 | Yes, one time |
| No annual report | $0 | Not required |
| Registered agent service | $100–$200 / year | Optional (you can be your own) |
| EIN from the IRS | Free | Yes, for banking and taxes |
| Operating agreement | Free–$200 | Required by state law |
Step by step
Choose and check your LLC name
Your name must be distinguishable from existing Missouri entities and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company". Search availability for free on the Missouri Secretary of State website before you fall in love with a name.
Appoint a registered agent
Required by law: a person or company with a physical street address in Missouri, available during business hours to receive legal mail. You can be your own agent if you live in the state; most founders who value privacy or don't live there use a service ($100 to $200 per year).
File your formation documents ($50)
File Articles of Organization (in some states called a Certificate of Formation) with the Missouri Secretary of State. Standard processing: immediately online. This is the step that legally creates the LLC.
Get your EIN from the IRS (free)
The Employer Identification Number is your LLC's federal tax ID, needed for bank accounts, hiring and taxes. Apply directly at irs.gov, it takes minutes and costs nothing. Never pay a service just for an EIN.
Create an operating agreement
Missouri law requires LLCs to have an operating agreement, so this step is not optional here.
Handle ongoing compliance
Good news: Missouri has no annual report for standard LLCs. Your ongoing duties are keeping a registered agent, renewing any local licenses and handling taxes.
Missouri LLC: frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Missouri?
The state filing fee is $50, paid to the Missouri Secretary of State. Ongoing state cost: none, Missouri has no annual state fee. Optional costs include a registered agent service (typically $100 to $200 per year) if you don't act as your own.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Missouri?
Standard processing is: immediately online. Many states offer paid expedited options if you need the LLC approved faster. The clock starts when the Missouri Secretary of State receives your filing.
Do I need a registered agent in Missouri?
Yes. Every Missouri LLC must continuously maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in the state to receive legal and official mail. You can serve as your own agent if you have a Missouri address and are available during business hours, or hire a commercial registered agent service.
Does Missouri require an annual report?
No. Missouri is one of the few states with no annual report requirement for standard LLCs, after formation, there is no recurring report to file with the state. You still need to keep your registered agent current and handle any tax obligations.
Not sure whether Missouri fits your situation?
Before you choose a filing package, talk through your business, location and goals with a real setup specialist. Get a clear formation roadmap at no cost and with no purchase obligation.
Request my free setup callLaunch.llc is free. If a formation partner fits and you choose to move forward, the partner may pay us a referral fee.
Compare with other states
Fees and rules last reviewed July 2026. State fees change; always confirm with the Missouri Secretary of State before filing. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice.