How to File Articles of Organization in Montana

In Montana, as in most states, the primary step in creating a limited liability company (LLC) is to file articles 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 are Articles of Organization?

The articles 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 Montana. 

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

How to File the Montana Articles of Organization

In Montana, the process to file articles 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 type
   • Registered agent name 
   • Registered office address
   • Business purpose
   • LLC term
   • Governing authority type
     
2. Visit the Montana Secretary of State website 

In Montana, you must file your articles of organization online. There is no mail-in or paper option. To get started, visit the Secretary of State website and create an ePass Montana account. Once you’re on the landing page, click “Login with ePass” to get started.

Under “Login with ePass Montana”, click the blue “here” hyperlink to register for your account.

3. Filling out Articles of Organization Document

To complete the online articles of organization form, log into your ePass Montana account and click “Forms” located in the left side menu. Next, choose “Articles of Organization for Domestic Limited Liability Company”. Click “File Online”.

You will then be brought to the Articles of Organization form. You’ll be moving through a series of screens where you’ll enter your entity name, entity details, registered agent and principal information. You’ll also be able to upload any necessary documents. 

Once you complete the form, you’ll have the opportunity to review all the entered information. If everything is correct, click “Next Step”. On the next screen, read and check each of the declarations and type in your electronic signature. Click “File Online” to move 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 Articles of Organization – The final step in the process is to submit payment through the website’s payment screen. The filing fee in Montana is $70. Your LLC should be officially formed within 7 to 10 business days.

Montana Secretary of State Contact Info

Montana Secretary of State – Online Business Services Website

Montana Secretary of State
Montana Capitol Building, Rm 260
P.O. Box 202801
Helena, MT 59620-2801
Front Desk: 406-444-2034

BUSINESS & UCC SERVICES

Phone: 406-444-3665
Email: [email protected]

The Bottom Line

In Montana, 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 Treasure State.