How to File Articles of Organization in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, 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 and officially become a legal entity. It will specify details about your company and establish your LLC as a registered business entity in Rhode Island. 

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

How to File the Rhode Island Articles of Organization

In Rhode Island, 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. 

• Business name
• Registered agent name and address
• How the LLC will be taxed
• Principal office address of the business
• Management structure
• Managers (if manager-managed)
• Filler contact information (person who filled out the form)

2. Visit the state’s secretary of state’s website 

Find Rhode Island’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

Click on “Start a Rhode Island Business”. Select file online for a limited liability company. 

You’ll go to a fillable version of the entire form. Fill out all of the form’s information. When you’re finished, click the button at the bottom to submit your information. You’ll have a chance to review all the information you entered.

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 

Once you’ve submitted your form, you’ll go to the payment screen to pay the filing fee, which in Rhode Island is $150. 

Rhode Island Secretary of State Contact Info

Here’s the secretary of state’s website. Contact the secretary of state’s office at (401) 222-3040.

Their mailing address is:

148 W. River St. 

Providence, RI 02904

The Bottom Line

In Rhode Island, 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 Ocean State.