How to File a Certificate of Formation in Maine

In Maine, as in most states, the primary step in creating a limited liability company (LLC) is to file a certificate of formation 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 Formation?

The certificate of formation 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 Maine. 

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

How to File the Maine Certificate of Formation

In Maine, the process to file a certificate of formation 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 type
   • Registered agent name
   • Registered office address
   • Filing date

2. Visit Maine’s Secretary of State website

Find Maine’s certificate of formation form here. In Maine, you’ll need to download the form and mail it in. There is no online filing option.

3. Filling out the Certificate of Formation Document

To complete your certificate of formation, enter your company name, filing date, designation, and registered agent information. Finally, sign the bottom of the form. 

NOTE: Don’t forget to submit your paperwork using the cover page included when you download the form.

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 Articles of Organization – The final step in the process is to mail in all documentation. The filing fee in Maine is $175. Once your paperwork is received, your LLC should be fully formed within five to 10 business days.

Maine Secretary of State Contact Info

Maine Secretary of State Website

Maine Bureau of Corporations, Elections, and Commissions

Physical & Mailing Address
101 State House Station
Augusta, Maine 04333-0101
Tel: 207-624-7736
Fax: 207-287-5428

Corporations email: [email protected]

The Bottom Line

In Maine, 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 Pine Tree State.