How to File a Certificate of Organization in Idaho

In Idaho, 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 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 an officially registered business entity in Idaho. 

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

How to File the Idaho Certificate of Organization

In Idaho, 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
   • LLC governor name and address

2. Visit the Idaho Secretary of State website 

Find Idaho’s 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

If you don’t already have an Idaho Business Services online account, you’ll need to create one to file your certificate of organization online. Click “Login” at the top right corner and then “Create an Account”.

Once you create your account, log in and click “Forms” from the left side menu. Then, choose “Certificate of Organization Limited Liability Company” and “File Online”. You will then be taken to the online form. You also have the option of choosing expedited filing for an additional fee. 

The next several screens ask you to enter your entity name, entity address, registered agent information, and governor information. On the “Confirm” screen, review all of your information to make sure it is correct. Then, click “Next Step”.

On the final screen, check all boxes under “Electronic Declarations” and enter your signature and the date of filing. Then, click “File Online” to be taken to the payment screen.

When filling out your articles of organization form, be sure to 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 is $100 for online filings (plus a $1 convenience fee) or $120 for mail-in submissions. Your LLC should be formed within 10 business days. 

Idaho Secretary of State Contact Info

Idaho Secretary of State Website

Idaho Online Business Services Website

Business Services Office Address:
450 N. 4th Street
Boise, ID 83702

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0080

Phone:  (208) 334-2301
Email:    [email protected]

Hours:    Monday — Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Bottom Line

In Idaho, 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 Gem State.