How to File a Certificate of Formation in Mississippi

In Mississippi, 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 Mississippi. 

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

How to File the Mississippi Certificate of Formation

In Mississippi, 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
   • Nature of business (NAICS codes)
   • Effective date
   • Registered agent name
   • Registered office address
     
2. Visit the Mississippi Secretary of State website 

In Mississippi, you must complete your certificate of formation online. The first step in the process is to create an online account. Click “Register” inside the “Registered Filer Login” box on the Business Services landing page and follow the instructions. 

3. Filling out the Certificate of Formation Document

Once you’ve created your online account, log in and select “Form a Mississippi Corporation, Non-profit, LLC, Partnership, or Cooperative” from the dashboard.

On the next screen, choose “Limited Liability Company” from the drop down menu and the rest of the form will appear. You will need to fill in your business name, business email, and nature of business (provide up to three NAICS codes). You will also need to fill in your registered agent information.

Once you complete the form, create an electronic signature and click “Next”. You will be asked if you would like to receive information on the Welcome to Business Webinar. Click “yes” or “no”. On the following page, click “I Acknowledge” and then upload any additional documents you wish to include. Click “Next”. 

On the next page, choose “Submit Document Electronically and Pay Online” to be taken to the payment screen. Alternatively, you can choose “Print Document and Mail-in with Check”. 

When filling out your certificate of formation, 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 Formation – 

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 Mississippi is $50. Your LLC should be officially formed within two business days of receipt of your filing.

Mississippi Secretary of State Contact Info

Mississippi Secretary of State Website

Online Portal – Mississippi Business Services

JACKSON OFFICES
401 Mississippi Street
Jackson, MS 39201
Phone: 601-359-1350

125 S. Congress Street
Jackson, MS 39201
Phone: 601-359-1633

COAST OFFICE
1141 Bayview Avenue, Suite 120
Biloxi, MS 39530
Phone: 228-432-0541

Business Services
Phone: 601-359-1633
Fax: 601-359-1499

Business Services Contact Form

The Bottom Line

In Mississippi, 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 Magnolia State.