How to File Articles of Organization in Tennessee

In Tennessee, 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 Tennessee.

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

How to File the Tennessee Articles of Organization

In Tennessee, 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
• Fiscal year close month
• Management structure
• Number of members
• Principal office address

2. Visit the state’s secretary of state website 

Find Tennessee’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

First, you’ll fill out your business name.

Then you’ll fill out the duration of the LLC and the fiscal close month. Then click to select whether your LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed (click the link to learn more).

Next you’ll fill out the registered agent information and the principal office address. You’ll then go to a page where you can confirm 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 

After you’ve reviewed your information, certify that it’s true and you’ll be taken to the payment page to pay the filing fee, which is $50 per member with a minimum fee of $300 and a maximum fee of $3,000.

Tennessee Secretary of State Contact Info

Here’s the secretary of state’s website. Contact the secretary of state’s office at (615) 741-2286. 

Their mailing address is:

 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue  

 6th Floor

 Nashville, TN 37243-1102 

The Bottom Line

In Tennessee, 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 Volunteer State.