How to Start an LLC in Washington, D.C.
Forming an LLC in Washington, D.C. costs $99 in state filing fees, paid to the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection. Here is the full process, the real costs and the Washington, D.C.-specific rules most guides skip.
What it costs
| Item | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| State filing fee (DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection) | $99 | Yes, one time |
| Report every 2 years | $300 every 2 years | Yes, recurring |
| 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 | Strongly recommended |
Step by step
Choose and check your LLC name
Your name must be distinguishable from existing Washington, D.C. entities and include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company". Search availability for free on the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection 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 Washington, D.C., 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 ($99)
File Articles of Organization (in some states called a Certificate of Formation) with the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection. Standard processing: about 5 business days online (expedite available). 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
Washington, D.C. does not legally require an operating agreement, but banks, investors and courts expect one, and it is the document that protects your limited liability if ownership is ever disputed.
Handle ongoing compliance
Washington, D.C. requires a report every two years ($300 every 2 years). Calendar it the day your LLC is approved, missing it risks administrative dissolution.
Washington, D.C. LLC: frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Washington, D.C.?
The state filing fee is $99, paid to the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection. Ongoing state cost: $300 every 2 years. 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 Washington, D.C.?
Standard processing is: about 5 business days online (expedite available). Many states offer paid expedited options if you need the LLC approved faster. The clock starts when the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection receives your filing.
Do I need a registered agent in Washington, D.C.?
Yes. Every Washington, D.C. 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 Washington, D.C. address and are available during business hours, or hire a commercial registered agent service.
Does Washington, D.C. require an annual report?
Not annually, Washington, D.C. uses a report due every two years ($300 every 2 years). Missing it can lead to administrative dissolution, so put the deadline on your calendar as soon as the LLC is approved.
Not sure whether Washington, D.C. 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 DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection before filing. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice.