How to File a Certificate of Organization in Arkansas

In Arkansas, as in most states, the primary step in creating a limited liability company (LLC) is to file a certificate of organization with the state. This is an absolutely crucial document that helps define your business, so it’s important to do it correctly.

An LLC is a business entity that offers liability protection for owners, as well as pass-through taxation, much like a sole proprietorship. 

What is a Certificate of Organization?

The certificate of organization, which is called articles of organization in most other states, is a legal document you need to file with the state to form your LLC. It will specify details about your company and establish your LLC as a registered business entity in Arkansas. 

The document is similar to the articles of incorporation you would file to form a corporation instead of an LLC. 

How to File the Arkansas Certificate of Organization

In Arkansas, the process to file a certificate of organization is quite simple. The crucial first step is gathering the required information about your new LLC, before proceeding with the filing itself. 

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to create your new business entity: 

1. Gather the required information about your business.

• Entity Name
• Entity Address
• Registered Agent Name
• Registered Office Address
• Governing Authority Type

2. Visit the Arkansas Secretary of State website.

Find Arkansas’ certificate of organization form here. It’s easiest to fill out the form online and file immediately, but you can also download it, fill it out and mail it in. 

3. Filling out the Certificate of Organization Document
   

On the first screen of the online application, fill in the entity information, principal information, registered agent, organizer/officers, submitter contact information, and annual report contact information fields. At the bottom of the page, type in an electronic signature and click the “submit” button.

On the next page, you will be asked if you would like the system to create an image for you. Upload the image of your choice, then click “Next”. This is not required, so feel free to simply click “Next”.

The next page is a review of your information. Take one final look, make changes if necessary, and click the “Next” button towards the top of the page. You’ll then be brought to the payment portal.

When filling out your articles of organization form, be sure to check and double-check that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Maybe you’ve just moved, or use your middle initial in official documents, such as with your bank account. If you get it wrong now, changing it later can be a real pain. So accuracy is crucial. 

• File Certificate of Organization – The final step in the process is to submit payment through the website’s payment screen or mail in all documentation. The filing fee in Arkansas is $50. If you file online, the fee is $45. Your LLC should be formed within 2 business days from filing.

Arkansas Secretary of State Contact Info

ARKANSAS SECRETARY OF STATE WEBSITE

BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL SERVICES (BCS)
Victory Building
1401 W. Capitol Avenue, Suite 250
Little Rock, AR 72201
888-233-0325 or 501-682-3409

[email protected]

The Bottom Line

In Arkansas, it’s relatively easy to create an LLC, but you do need to jump through a few hoops. You now have all the information you need to officially create your new business and begin your entrepreneurial journey in The Natural State.