How Long to Open an LLC in the US? – LLC Setter's Complete Guide
Exciting to start your own business. One of the most popular types of businesses is a Limited Liability Company (LLC). But if you are opening an LLC, one of the first things you will be wondering about is:
How long to open an LLC in the US?
Here at LLC Setter, we assist global entrepreneurs to easily and promptly form their US LLCs. In this article, we will guide you through everything regarding the duration, what is required, and how you can accelerate it.
The Short Answer
It would usually take between a few weeks to a few days to set up an LLC in the US. It is dependent on:
- The state in which you're creating your LLC
- How fast the state's Secretary of State office processes
- The speed with which you have it regularly filed or rush filed
- How fast you get the files prepared and filed
We want at LLC Setter to get your LLC created as fast as possible, while still getting everything done properly and legally.
Step-by-Step Timeframe for Setting Up an LLC
Let's break the major steps of starting an LLC into how long each one usually takes.
1. Selecting the Proper State for Your LLC (1–2 Days)
The first step is deciding where you'd like to have your LLC registered. Delaware, Wyoming, and New Mexico are some of the most preferred places to set up an LLC due to the fact that they are business-friendly and have a very quick processing time.
You can even incorporate an LLC if you are not a US citizen. Delaware or Wyoming is often preferred by some foreign entrepreneurs for their online businesses.
With LLC Setter, we guide you through a comparison of states and choosing the ideal one for your enterprise requirements. This will typically take no more than 1–2 days of discussion and argument.
Best states to start an LLC in US: 2025 Guide
2. Processing the Articles of Organization (Processing Time: 1 Day to 4 Weeks)
Official formation of an LLC starts when you file the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. This form contains:
- Your LLC name
- Business address
- Registered agent details
- Members' (owners') names
Processing time varies extremely from state to state:
- Delaware: 1–3 days (same-day available with additional fee)
- Wyoming: 3–5 business days
- New Mexico: 2–3 weeks
- California & New York: 3–6 weeks
Expedited filing is available in a couple of states, which will form your LLC within 24 hours.
3. Obtaining the EIN (Employer Identification Number) (1–2 Weeks)
An EIN is essentially a Social Security Number for your business. You'll require it to:
- Open a US business bank account
- Pay taxes
- Hire employees
If you have a US Social Security Number (SSN), you are usually able to get an EIN online in real-time. If you are outside the US, however, you will need to file an application by fax or mail on IRS Form SS-4, and this will require 1–2 weeks.
We here at LLC Setter prepare the EIN application for you so that you don't have to deal with IRS forms.
4. Operating Agreement (1–2 Days)
Though not required by law, it is highly recommended. It explains:
- Ownership of the LLC
- Division of profits
- Making decisions
We at LLC Setter draft this on your behalf within 1–2 days, so your LLC is safe in the law's eyes.
5. Opening a US Bank Account (1–3 Weeks)
- Once your LLC and EIN are created, you can next get a business bank account.
- This varies based on whether you are in the US or not.
- If you are in the US, it can be achieved in a matter of days by going to the bank.
- If you are not in the US, it would be longer as banks would need additional verification.
We at LLC Setter collaborate with fintech solutions enabling international founders to remotely open US bank accounts.
How to Open US Bank Account For LLC As Non-US Resident [2025 Upadated]
Average Timeline by State
Here is a glimpse of how fast it takes to create an LLC in some of the best states:
How to Make the Process Faster
Here are some quick tips from LLC Setter on how to accelerate your LLC formation:
1. Select a quick state Delaware and Wyoming are quickest.
2. Select expedited filing – pay the additional fee to get approved within 1–2 days.
3. Get documents prepared beforehand—finalize your LLC name and members prior to applying.
4. Hire a professional service – at LLC Setter, we guarantee zero mistakes and instant submission.
5. Get EIN promptly – don't tarry here as this is required for banking.
Typical Delays in Creating an LLC
- Delays do occasionally occur. The most typical reasons are:
- Taking a name already taken by an LLC
- Filing incorrect or incomplete forms
- Delays by IRS in issuing EIN (particularly for foreign nationals)
- Delay by state filing office
LLC Setter prevents these delays from ever occurring to you by checking name availability, producing error-free forms, and monitoring your application for approval.
So, How Long Does It Really Take to Open an LLC?
- Fastest timeline: 2–3 days (with expedited Delaware or Wyoming filing + same-day EIN for US residents)
- Average timeline for US residents: 1–2 weeks
- Average timeline for non-US residents: 2–4 weeks (for EIN and bank process)
We handle it all for you — from setup to EIN to banking — so you can concentrate on growing your business and not be bogged down in paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Forming an LLC in the US doesn't have to be a hassle. The process differs depending on your state, paperwork, and rush filing.
Need a hassle-free, fast, and secure LLC formation? LLC Setter is at your service. We specialize in providing hassle-free business setup assistance to entrepreneurs within and outside the US.
Ready to start your LLC today? Call LLC Setter and let's set your business off with a record-breaker.