How to File Articles of Organization in North Carolina

In North Carolina, 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 North Carolina. 

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

How to File the North Carolina Articles of Organization

In North Carolina, 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 and 
   • Entity address
   • Organizer information
   • Registered agent name
   • Registered office address
   • Effective date

2. Visit the North Carolina Secretary of State website 

Find North Carolina’s articles 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 Articles of Organization Document

To file your articles of organization online, you’ll need to create an online account through the Secretary of State website. To get started, click the “Start a New Business Wizard” link at the top of the website’s homepage. On the next page, click “Register Your Business Online” and then on the following page, click “First time user?” to create your account. 

NOTE: You can also file by uploading a copy of your paper form. After clicking “Start a New Business Wizard”, click “Upload Document Using the Classic Method”.

Once your account is created, log in and select “Register Your Business Online” from the main screen. Next, you will be asked if your business entity has been created in another country. Select “yes” or “no” from the drop down menu. Then, you will need to select your business entity type. Choose “Limited Liability Company” from the drop down menu. 

You will then move through a series of screens to complete your form. You’ll need to enter your business name, registered agent information, registered office address, principal office information, organizer information, company officials, and filing effective date. You may also upload additional attachments. 

Once everything is filled out, you will be brought to the signature page. Type in your electronic signature and click “Next”. The following page allows you to review all of your entered information. If everything looks correct, click “Next”. You will be asked if you want to expedite your filing ($100 for 24-hour turnaround time). Make your selection, then click “Next” to go 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 or mail in all documentation. The filing fee in North Carolina is $125, plus $3 if you file online. You also can pay an extra fee to expedite processing time. If you choose the standard option, your LLC should be officially formed within 5-7 business days from filing.

North Carolina Secretary of State Contact Info

North Carolina Secretary of State Website

Physical Address
2 South Salisbury Street
Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-2903

Hours of Operation:   M-F 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Email:   [email protected]

Telephone:   919-814-5400

The Bottom Line

In North Carolina, 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 Tar Heel State.