So You Wanna Be an LLC Lord (or Lady) in Memphis? A Not-So-Serious Guide to Forming Your LLC
Congratulations, hotshot! You've decided to ditch the 9-to-5 and become your own boss in Memphis. But before you're out there slingin' barbecue or wranglin' tourists to Graceland, there's a little doohickey called an LLC you gotta deal with. Now, don't let the fancy name scare you. This guide will have you forming your LLC like a champ, with enough time left to perfect your signature Elvis impersonation (because, Memphis).
How To Apply For An Llc In Memphis Tn |
Step 1: Name Your Empire (But Check it Twice)
Think of your LLC name like your wrestling persona - it's gotta be memorable! But before you unleash your inner "Macho Man" Randy Savage, make sure the name ain't already taken. Head over to the Tennessee Secretary of State's website and do a quick name search. Pro-tip: Avoid names that sound like a government agency or a cult (unless that's your vibe, no judgement).
Underlined Important Part: Your name must include "limited liability company" or an abbreviation like "LLC". No pretending to be a bank or trust company either, unless you wanna get tangled with some regulations.
Step 2: Fill Out the Fun Form (or Not-So-Fun Form, Depending on Your Penmanship)
This is where things get a little technical. You gotta file a document called "Articles of Organization" with the Secretary of State. Don't worry, it's not the Magna Carta. You can do this electronically (because, hello, 21st century!), or you can print it out and play connect-the-dots with legalese.
QuickTip: Note key words you want to remember.
There will be stuff about your business address, members (that's you and your business buddies), and some other nitty-gritty details. Just fill it out truthfully, and if something confuses you, consult a lawyer or accountant (or that friend who always aced those vocabulary tests).
Here's the not-so-fun part: There's a filing fee. It depends on how many members your LLC has, but it starts at a cool $300. Think of it as an investment in your future freedom (and maybe a celebratory plate of ribs afterwards).
Step 3: Wait and Anticipate (While Maybe Wrangling Some Alligators... Not Really)
Once you've submitted your Articles of Organization, it's time to play the waiting game. The Secretary of State will process your request, and viola! You'll be a certified LLC owner. While you wait, channel your inner Memphis and maybe catch a Grizzlies game or explore the mighty Mississippi.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling, read carefully here.
Important Note: Don't go wrestle any alligators. Trust me.
Congratulations, You're an LLC Lord (or Lady)!
Now that you've conquered the LLC beast, you're officially a business owner. Time to celebrate with some Memphis barbeque and start planning your entrepreneurial empire. Remember, with great LLC ownership comes great responsibility (like filing annual reports, but that's a story for another day).
FAQs for the Aspiring Memphis LLC Mogul
How to name my LLC?
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
Make it memorable, check for availability with the Secretary of State, and follow the state naming guidelines (no pretending to be a bank!).
How to file the Articles of Organization?
You can do it electronically or by mail. There's a fee, so be prepared.
QuickTip: Pause when something clicks.
How long does it take to get approved?
The Secretary of State will process your request, but waiting times can vary.
How much does it cost?
The filing fee depends on the number of members in your LLC, but expect it to start at $300.
How to celebrate becoming an LLC owner?
Memphis barbeque, anyone?