How to File a Certificate of Formation in New Jersey

In New Jersey, 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 New Jersey. 

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

How to File the New Jersey Certificate of Formation

In New Jersey, 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
   • Business purpose
   • Duration
   • Registered agent name
   • Registered office address

2. Visit New Jersey’s Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services website

Find New Jersey’s certificate of formation 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. 

NOTE: In New Jersey, there is one central form for all types of business registrations. If you are completing a paper application, be sure to follow the form’s included instructions specific to forming an LLC.

3. Filling out Articles of Organization Document

To file online, head to the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services Business Formation website. 

On the first screen, select “NJ Domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC)” from the drop down menu and enter your business name. Click “Continue”.

On the next several screens, you’ll be asked for your business information (EIN, NAICS codes, duration, effective date). You will also be asked to provide your business purpose and address, registered agent information, member and manager information, and any provisions or additional information.

At the end of the form, you’ll be asked to provide an electronic signature. Enter the signer’s information and click the checkbox next to “signature” and click “Continue”. The final screen offers you the opportunity to review all of your information before submitting your form. If everything looks correct, click “Continue” to head to the payment page. 

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 or mail in all documentation. The filing fee in New Jersey is $125 plus a $3.50 online portal admin fee. You can also add certified copies or a certificate of standing for an extra fee. 

Once payment has been received, your LLC should be officially formed within 10 business days. 

New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services Contact Info

New Jersey Division of Revenue & Enterprise Services Website

Online portal website: New Jersey Business Formation Services

Mailing Address:
New Jersey Division of Revenue
P.O. Box 252
Trenton, NJ 08646

Office Address:
New Jersey Division of Revenue
33 W. State St.
Trenton, NJ 08608

Phone:   609-292-6748

General Inquiries Contact Form

The Bottom Line

In New Jersey, 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 Garden State.