Last Updated: October 8, 2024

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How to Start an LLC in Arkansas

Looking to start a limited liability company (LLC)? Arkansas might be the right place for you. With its dedication to economic growth, various tax incentives, diverse geography, and more, the Natural State is a popular choice for new entrepreneurs. 

Pair those state-specific benefits with the advantages of the LLC business structure, such as separation of personal assets and liabilities from those of your business, and you’ve got a great match. An LLC in Arkansas can be an excellent way to take advantage of a friendly commercial climate and a business configuration that offers flexibility and asset protection.

However, in order to reap those benefits, you’ll need to officially form your LLC in Arkansas. And if you want to stay in good standing with the state, you’ll need to complete the formation process correctly. 

If the idea of forming an LLC seems more stressful than dealing with traffic on Highway 7, don’t fret. We’re here to walk you through the entire process. Along the way, we’ll also explore how our products and services can help cut through much of the red tape and make the whole journey more seamless.

Just one note before you hop in. These directions apply only if you want to start a domestic, for-profit LLC in Arkansas. We’ll also chat through the nuances of a professional LLC (PLLC), an LLC designed for licensed professionals like lawyers, accountants, physicians, or architects. Foreign LLCs, or LLCs that are formed outside of Arkansas but will do business in the state, must follow a different process than what we’re outlining here. Now, let’s get started.

Welcome to ZenBusiness, where comprehensive information on starting and managing your Arkansas LLC is at your fingertips. From legal requirements to tax advice, we provide you with all the information you need to make informed decisions.

Starting an LLC in Arkansas

To start an LLC in Arkansas, you’ll need to file a Certificate of Organization with the Secretary of State. Before you can file these formation documents, however, you’ll need to name your Arkansas LLC and appoint a registered agent. After your Certificate of Organization is filed, you’ll create an operating agreement and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

  1. Name your Arkansas LLC
  2. Appoint a registered agent in Arkansas
  3. File Arkansas Certificate of Organization
  4. Create an operating agreement
  5. Apply for an EIN
  6. File your LLC’s BOI report

Arkansas LLC in 6 Steps

Every business has different needs, but forming an LLC in Arkansas generally requires completing five main steps. Keep reading to discover a full breakdown of each one, as well as a few things you need to consider throughout the process. 

steps to start an llc in arkansas

Step 1: Name your Arkansas company

illustration of step 1 in forming an llc in Arkansas

To start an LLC in Arkansas, begin by naming your company. For obvious reasons, every business requires a name before registering with the state. Picking a name for your LLC in Arkansas is one of the most fun, exciting, and important parts of the formation process.

Start by taking some time to brainstorm a few ideas. Your business name should adequately convey what your LLC offers while capturing the right branding voice for your company/industry. 

Take a moment to see our tips and tricks for naming your LLC.

LLC Business Name Conventions

Arkansas has a few naming conventions that you have to follow. Specifically, your LLC’s name must:

  • Be distinguishable from the name of any other business that is on file with the Arkansas Secretary of State (SOS)
  • Contain the phrase “limited liability company,” “limited company,” or
  • Include one of the following abbreviations: “L.L.C.,” “LLC,” “L.C.,” or “LC.”

Check online to see whether your desired business name is available by using our Arkansas Business Entity Search resource page. You should also search for your business’s name on the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website. Finally, you can call the Arkansas Secretary of State’s office directly.

Note: It’s always a good idea to come up with a few potential names (or at least one backup), so you have multiple options in case the name you want is already taken.

Naming an Arkansas PLLC

In general, the rules to form a PLLC are very similar to forming a standard LLC, but there are a couple nuances to address; naming the business is one of them. In Arkansas, you’ll need to end your PLLC name with the phrase “Professional Limited Liability Company” or “Professional Limited Company.” You can also use the abbreviations “PLLC,” “P.L.L.C.,” “PLC,” or “P.L.C.” You can also abbreviate “Limited” or “Company” as “Ltd.” or “Co.” respectively.

You also cannot use the name or surname of an individual unless they’re a member of the PLLC. The only exception is the name of a former member or member from a predecessor organization; those names can still be included.

Last but not least, please double-check that you’re adhering to any naming requirements enacted by your industry. These can vary, so please consult with your regulatory agency for full guidelines.

Performing a Name Search

It’s crucial to ensure that your chosen business name is unique within Arkansas. You can perform a name search through the Arkansas Secretary of State’s online database or contact their office directly for assistance. We show you how to perform a name search on our Arkansas Business Entity Search page. This step is essential because Arkansas requires that your LLC’s name be distinct from existing entities registered in the state to avoid potential conflicts. 

Trademarks

Even if the name you want to use appears to be available after you’ve searched the Secretary of State’s database, there’s no guarantee that someone hasn’t already trademarked it at the state or federal level. While there’s no central place to check for all trademarks (some businesses even consult with trademark-specialized lawyers), you can take some measures yourself. 

For instance, you can search for state-level trademarks through the Arkansas Secretary of State website. To check for federal trademarks, search the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) online resource database. You can also apply for your own state trademark via the Arkansas SOS. 

In addition to checking state and federal databases, it’s a good idea to conduct extensive internet searches for your desired business name, including checking domain names, social media websites, and online phone directories.

Reserving a Business Name for Your Arkansas LLC

Starting an LLC takes time and planning. If you have the perfect name for your LLC but aren’t ready to form it yet, consider reserving the name instead. That way, no one else can take it before you’re ready to register your business. With our online name reservation service, you can reserve your ideal LLC name for up to 120 days while you get ready to launch your company.

Choosing a Domain Name for Your Business Website

All modern businesses should have an online website presence to attract customers and maximize their market share. Consequently, it’s a good idea to make sure you can find an online domain name that matches your LLC’s name. A well-chosen domain name is crucial for branding and memorability, helping to establish a strong online identity that customers can easily recall. It also adds credibility and professionalism to your business, instilling trust in potential clients. Overall, investing in a website and selecting a fitting domain name are essential steps in establishing a strong online presence and boosting your new business’s growth and success.

Filing for a Fictitious Name

Sometimes, businesses can benefit from having an extra name. These names allow commercial ventures to enjoy some versatility while solidifying their reputation with their customers. Most states call these alternative monikers “doing business as” names (DBA names), but Arkansas simply refers to them as “fictitious names.”

Examples of when a fictitious name would be used include: 

  • A business with the official name “ABC Toys, LLC” wants to sell online as “ABC Toys”
  • A business with the official name “XYZ Computers, LLC” wants to sell MacBooks as “XYZ Macs”  

If obtaining a fictitious name sounds right for your situation, you’ll need to file an Arkansas Application for Fictitious Name with the Arkansas Secretary of State. Learn more about this process with our step-by-step guide on how to get a DBA name for your business in Arkansas.

Step 2: Appoint a registered agent in Arkansas

illustration for step 2 to get an llc in Arkansas

Appoint a registered agent for your Arkansas LLC. Also known as an agent for service of process, a registered agent is an individual or business that accepts important legal notices on behalf of the business. All LLCs in Arkansas are required to have a registered agent. 

Arkansas Registered Agent Requirements

To serve as a registered agent in Arkansas, an individual or business must:

  • Have a physical address within Arkansas (must be a physical street address; a P.O. box will not suffice) 
  • Be available during regular business hours to accept all incoming documents and forward them to the LLC
    • Examples of critical documents include lawsuit notices, other legal documents and service of process notices, and notification of annual report deadlines.

Can I serve as my own registered agent?

While there’s no law prohibiting LLC owners from serving as their own registered agent, there are several reasons why this isn’t the best idea.

For starters, if your business moves or the address you have on file changes, you’ll need to remember to change the registered agent address with the SOS. Furthermore, having to be available during all regular business hours to receive legal notices can prove to be inconvenient.

Perhaps most importantly of all, being served with notices such as lawsuit notifications in front of customers or others can be incredibly embarrassing and distressing for a small business owner. 

Benefits of a Registered Agent Service

Rather than serving as your own registered agent or asking a friend or family member to do so, many business owners opt to use a professional registered agent service. This approach offers several advantages.

For one, you have more important things to do than sit in an office waiting for documents to arrive. Second, making a mistake (notably, not being present to receive a notice) as a registered agent can be costly. Failing to respond to government notices can lead to fees, sanctions, and lawsuits. Those are the last things your business needs.

And, of course, using professional services will help you avoid the aforementioned embarrassment of being served with legal notices in front of others. 

If you’re looking for a quality registered agent service, then look no further. Let us help you get a Arkansas registered agent in Arkansas.

What if the state can’t find my Arkansas registered agent?

A registered agent in Arkansas has one primary job: be present to accept important correspondence. Unfortunately, registered agents are unavailable more often than you might think.

This can happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes your registered agent may go on vacation or become sick without notifying anyone. 

Whatever the reason, if the registered agent is unavailable, a whole host of negative outcomes can follow. At the very least, your business will miss out on critical legal and business notices. Furthermore, you may fall out of good standing with the state of Arkansas. The state may even take action against you and your business if it can’t contact your registered agent. In some situations, it may initiate a lawsuit against your LLC or impose financial penalties. In the worst-case scenario, the state may dissolve your LLC entirely for failing to meet the state’s requirements for LLCs.

Step 3: File Arkansas Certificate of Organization

illustration of step 3 to form an llc in Arkansas

File your Arkansas Certificate of Organization. This formation document officially registers your Arkansas LLC with the state, so it’s important to complete it accurately. Mistakes can delay the formation of your LLC or lead to several administrative consequences. Fortunately, we can take care of the filing process for you with our LLC formation service. Check out our LLC formation plans.

The state filing fee to file an Arkansas Certificate of Organization is $45 (as of this writing). If you choose to use our LLC formation plan, you can opt to expedite our processing speed for an extra fee. Normal processing time for our filings is 2 to 3 weeks. For an extra $50, you can reduce our processing time to 6 to 9 business days. And for an extra $100, you can further shrink processing time to 2 to 5 business days. To learn more about Arkansas’s other LLC fees, see our guide to Arkansas LLC costs.

What information do I need to include in my Arkansas Certificate of Organization?

When you fill out your Arkansas Certificate of Organization, you’ll need to provide: 

  • The name of your Arkansas LLC
  • Your business address
  • The name and address of your registered agent
  • The name and address of at least one officer for franchise tax purposes
  • Organizer signature(s) 

Lastly, don’t forget to attach any additional statements or documents that may be required. For example, if you want to include more than 3 initial officers on your State of Arkansas Certificate of Organization, you must attach an additional page to list them. Additionally, all Arkansas LLCs must pay an annual franchise tax. Accordingly, an LLC must also include a Limited Liability Company Franchise Tax form at the time of submitting its formation documents.

Filing a Certificate as a PLLC

PLLCs file the same version of the Certificate of Organization as a standard LLC, and the filing process is largely the same. That said, you might be asked to provide some extra documentation. For example, dentists and medical doctors are required to get a Certificate of Registration from their licensing boards. The Secretary of State may ask for proof of compliance with these requirements, so be sure to have that documentation on hand.

Amending and Updating your Certificate of Organization

Even if you accidentally filed your LLC’s Certificate of Organization incorrectly, we can give you a hand. Our amendment filing service lets you easily make changes and updates to your business’s name and address. You can also tweak your ownership structure and the name and address of your registered agent. Moreover, you can opt to use our Worry-Free Compliance service. This service can help you stay compliant with the annual filing requirements in Arkansas. It also gives your business two free yearly amendments so you can update your business’s Certificate of Organization when the occasion requires.

Member-Managed or Manager-Managed? 

LLCs commonly have two forms of management. With member-managed LLCs, the owners (or members) exercise control collectively over the company’s decisions. Alternatively, an LLC can opt for a manager-managed structure by appointing one or more of the members to manage the LLC or hiring an outside manager. In Arkansas, LLCs are member-managed by default, and most LLCs begin operations as member-managed enterprises. 

Step 4: Create an operating agreement

illustration of step 4 in forming an llc in arkansas

Create an operating agreement for your business. While not required by Arkansas law, this document lays out all pertinent details regarding how your LLC will be run. Operating agreements also further help to protect your personal assets by showing the court that you took the time to draft this formal document for your business. They can even help attract investors and future business partners.

What do operating agreements include?

Operating agreements help clarify things like:

  • How ownership of the LLC is divided among the members
  • How profits are divided
  • How members can enter and exit the business
  • Under what conditions the business can terminate
  • How the business should wind up (as part of the termination process)
  • The voting rights of the LLC’s members or partners
  • How the business’s members make important decisions
  • Your LLC’s management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)

Take a few moments to learn more about the incredible benefits of operating agreements. Without an operating agreement, your business will have to follow Arkansas’s default guidelines in the state’s Uniform LLC Act. These default provisions might not align with what you and the other members want for the business. 

✓ Operating agreement template

Once you’ve decided to draft an operating agreement, you may be wondering where to start. What provisions should you include? These are the kinds of questions we love to solve. Our LLC operating agreement template gives you the framework for filling out this all-important document. With our template, you can address issues like the division of profits and losses, the ownership structure of the LLC, and each member’s rights and responsibilities.

Do I need an operating agreement even if I’m the only owner? 

If you’re going into business on your own, you may find it tempting to avoid drafting an LLC operating agreement altogether. After all, why worry about avoiding disputes when there’s no one to have a dispute with?

Nevertheless, sole owners should still consider drafting an operating agreement for several reasons. First, having an operating agreement allows you to bring in new members on your terms. By having an operating agreement on hand before you bring on new members, you won’t need to worry about negotiating an agreement with them.

Furthermore, investors and business partners alike will use your operating agreement to size up your business. On top of that, many banks require you to have an operating agreement before getting a business bank account with them. And if you are somehow incapacitated, a third party can use your operating agreement to determine how to manage the LLC until your return.

Finally, in the event that you find yourself in a business lawsuit, an operating agreement can serve as valuable evidence that you and your business are, indeed, separate entities. In essence, it makes your business look more “official.” Without an operating agreement, the court may view your LLC more like a sole proprietorship. 

Step 5: Apply for an EIN

illustration of step 5 in forming an llc in alabama

Register your company with the federal government by obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Much like a Social Security number (SSN) does for individuals, an EIN identifies your business to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). And just as individuals place their SSNs on their tax returns, businesses use their EIN to file taxes with the IRS. In addition to streamlining tax payments, EINs allow your LLC to hire new employees and get a business bank account.

While single-member LLCs with no employees that opt to be taxed as sole proprietorships usually aren’t required by law to obtain an EIN, it’s a good idea to get one, anyway. Most banks require an EIN to open a business bank account, and investors may be more confident in your company if you have a business bank account. 

Want to get an EIN without dealing with the IRS? We understand completely. Let us handle the hassle for you with our quick and efficient EIN service.

Get a business bank account

Establishing a dedicated business bank account is a critical and foundational step when forming an LLC in Arkansas. This practice not only streamlines your financial affairs but also reinforces the separation between personal and business finances. By maintaining distinct accounts, you protect your personal assets and maintain the limited liability status of your LLC.

Setting up a business bank account is a straightforward process, and to further simplify it, consider utilizing ZenBusiness. Our platform offers a discounted bank account solution that includes benefits like unlimited transactions, online banking, and a debit card. And if you’re looking for even more help managing your finances, check out Money Pro. This innovative platform enables you to create and send custom invoices, track tax-deductible expenses, and manage all other financial aspects of your small business.

Handling State Taxes

Arkansas requires all businesses — including LLCs — to pay the state’s yearly franchise tax. This is done by filing an annual franchise tax report and paying the fee ($150 for LLCs).

When filing your annual LLC franchise tax report, make sure you have your LLC’s management and registered agent information handy. And be extra careful to submit your LLC’s franchise tax report on time (it’s due on or before May 1, each year). Late filing can lead to penalties, interest, and even legal consequences.

If you plan to hire employees to work for your LLC, you will need to file for Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Insurance and withhold your employees’ income taxes. To get started, register for withholding tax with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.

Finally, if your LLC plans to sell products to Arkansas customers, you will need to collect sales and use tax. As with withholding taxes, the first step in paying sales tax is registering with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration.

Step 6: Submit your LLC’s beneficial ownership information report

As of 2024, there’s a new filing requirement for LLCs and other small businesses: submitting a beneficial ownership information report, or BOI report. This requirement was introduced by the Corporate Transparency Act, which aims to reduce and deter financial crimes by making it tougher for groups to use shell companies to hide illicit activities like money laundering. To accomplish this, the BOI report asks businesses to provide information about their beneficial owners. 

A beneficial owner is anyone who exerts substantial control over the business, gets significant economic benefit from its assets, or holds 25% or more of the ownership interest. For each of your owners, you’ll be asked to provide the name, address, and identifying documents. You can report this information online or by uploading a PDF version of the form to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). 

There isn’t a filing fee for this form, and you only have to file it on the federal level. But failing to file can have substantial consequences, so be sure to file on time. For LLCs created in 2024, you’ll have up to 90 days after Arkansas approves your Certificate of Organization, while LLCs that organize in 2025 and beyond will have just 30 days. Any LLCs that organized before 2024 will have until January 1, 2025. 

To learn more about the BOI report, you can consult FinCEN’s website. And if you’d like help for completing this step, try out our BOI report filing service.

Pros and Cons of Forming an Arkansas LLC

An Arkansas LLC is a popular business structure, but it’s not quite right for every business entity. Before you form one, you should carefully evaluate an LLC’s advantages and disadvantages. 

Pros

A key advantage of an Arkansas LLC is the protection of personal assets. Owners usually aren’t held personally liable for business debts, which provides significant peace of mind. Tax flexibility is another plus; LLCs can choose to be taxed as a sole proprietor, partnership, C corporation, or S corporation, allowing for the most advantageous tax treatment (which varies from one business to another). 

Operational ease is another big draw, with fewer state-imposed formalities than corporations. This often makes LLCs especially attractive to small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Cons

On the flip side, while forming an LLC in Arkansas offers certain protections, it also brings complexities, particularly in legal compliance. Even though an LLC is easier than a corporation, staying abreast of state regulations can be daunting, especially compared to the relative simplicity of sole proprietorship or partnership. 

Raising capital can also be challenging, as LLCs lack the ability to issue stock. This often limits an LLC’s opportunities for third-party investors (many investment groups and individuals prefer corporations). Additionally, the liability shield of an LLC isn’t absolute. Improper mixing of personal and business finances or neglecting formalities can jeopardize this protection.

Types of LLCs in Arkansas

If you’re thinking of forming an LLC in Arkansas, there are actually a couple of different types available, each suited to different business needs.

Single-Member LLCs

If you’re a solo dreamer in the Land of Opportunity, then a single-member LLC might be a perfect fit. With this structure, you take charge as the sole owner while also enjoying the liability shield that LLCs offer.

Multi-Member LLCs

If you have one or more friends or family members excited to start a business with you, then a multi-member LLC could be a great way to team up with security. A multi-member LLC helps ensure each member’s input is valued while splitting profits, losses, and responsibilities according to the agreed terms.

Professional LLCs

A professional limited liability company (PLLC) is made for licensed professionals such as doctors, CPAs, and attorneys. It provides liability protection while meeting professional licensing requirements. PLLCs do not shield members from personal malpractice claims but protect against claims made against other members.

Cost to Form an LLC in Arkansas

The amount of money you need to start an LLC in Arkansas varies on several factors. At the very least, you will need $45 to file a Certificate of Organization. Note that filing fees can vary from time to time. To obtain the most recent list of fees, visit the Arkansas Secretary of State website. 

However, here are the most common ones you can expect with an LLC. 

  • Certificate of Organization: $45 online, $50 by mail
  • Registered Agent Service Fee: Varies, typically $100 to $300 annually.
  • Annual Franchise Tax: A minimum of $150, due each year

These are the most common costs associated with starting and maintaining an LLC in Arkansas. However, it’s important to note that these costs can vary significantly from business to business, including fees for licenses and permits, tax burdens, and so on.

Maintaining an LLC in Arkansas requires attention to several key legal aspects. Annual franchise tax reports are mandatory, and failure to file them can lead to penalties. Keeping up-to-date records of business transactions and decisions is important for legal compliance. 

Additionally, understanding and adhering to state and federal tax obligations is essential. Tax obligations vary from one business to another, so it’s highly recommended to chat with a state tax attorney or CPA to get customized guidance and stay informed about updates to the tax code.

Finally, regularly reviewing changes in business laws and ensuring compliance with these laws is vital to avoid legal issues and maintain the LLC’s good standing.

Popular Arkansas Cities for Businesses

Here are some of the largest population areas in Arkansas and their potential business categories:

  • Little Rock, AR
    • Little Rock is the capital and largest city in Arkansas.
    • Promising business categories include healthcare and medical services, technology and software development, retail, and hospitality.
  • Fort Smith, AR
    • Fort Smith is the second-largest city in the state.
    • Key business opportunities can be found in manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and retail.
  • Fayetteville, AR
    • Fayetteville is known for its vibrant economy and is home to the University of Arkansas.
    • Prominent business sectors include education and technology startups, as well as food and beverage establishments.
  • Springdale, AR
    • Springdale is located in the northwest part of the state and is part of the larger Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers Metropolitan Area.
    • Opportunities in the food processing industry, agriculture-related businesses, and retail can be explored in Springdale.
  • Rogers, AR
    • Rogers is another city in the northwest region of Arkansas.
    • It’s a hub for retail businesses, particularly because it’s home to the headquarters of Walmart, and there are opportunities in various retail-related sectors.
  • Jonesboro, AR
    • Jonesboro is in the northeastern part of Arkansas.
    • Emerging sectors include healthcare services, manufacturing, and logistics due to its strategic location.
  • Conway, AR
    • Conway is located near Little Rock and is known for its educational institutions.
    • There are business opportunities in education, healthcare, and technology-related fields.
  • North Little Rock, AR
    • North Little Rock is adjacent to the capital city and offers various business prospects similar to Little Rock, including healthcare and retail.

We can help

Knowing how to get an LLC in Arkansas is the most important part of the formation process. But knowing the process and working through the process are two different things. We are dedicated to making it easier for entrepreneurs to start, run, and grow their businesses in the Natural State.

With our help, you can easily and effectively create an Arkansas LLC. Our experienced professionals will take you through every step of the process so you can form your LLC quickly and get it right the first time.

Our wide variety of services can handle many of your other business needs, too. From formation to compliance and everything in between, we’ve got your back. Whether you want to start your LLC in Little Rock, Hot Springs, or the heart of the Ozarks, we’re ready to help.

Concluding your journey to form an Arkansas LLC, remember that ZenBusiness is your go-to source for up-to-date and detailed information on many aspects of LLC management. ZenBusiness offers a range of services tailored to the unique needs of Arkansas LLCs. Whether it’s registered agent services or other forms of support, we’re here to assist every step of the way.

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Arkansas Limited Liability Company FAQs

  • Unlike some states, Arkansas doesn’t require every business to obtain a general business license. However, some localities may insist you obtain a municipal or county business license. The list of business licenses and permits you must acquire depends on your LLC’s individual characteristics. In what industries does your LLC operate? What kinds of products does it sell? When and where does it operate?

    Whatever the answers to these questions, it’s likely you will need permits and licenses from various authorities at the federal, state, and/or local levels. Discovering all the permitting and licensing requirements for your business can be overwhelming. But we can give you some peace of mind with our convenient business license report. This tool provides a concise summary of the licenses you need to operate legally in Arkansas. Our report includes not only federal and state permit requirements, but also local and county ones, as well.

  • The most significant benefit of LLCs in Arkansas is that they offer both liability protection and favorable tax treatment. By way of comparison, corporations offer favorable asset protection at the cost of subpar tax treatment (double taxation), and sole proprietorships provide pass-through taxation without any form of limited liability protection. LLCs can also allow their owners to design their own custom operating procedures and choose from a versatile range of ownership structures.

  • The IRS treats LLCs as pass-through entities by default. This means the LLC itself isn’t taxed. Instead, the LLC’s owners (members) pay taxes on their business earnings at the individual level. Your ownership share in the LLC determines the amount of taxes you pay for your LLC. For instance, if you own 50% of the LLC, you’ll be responsible for paying 50% of the taxes.

    Pass-through taxation stands in contrast to double taxation faced by corporations, where the government imposes taxes both at the business level and at the individual level.

    While most LLC owners embrace pass-through taxation, there are two possible alternatives. First, LLCs can choose to pay taxes as a C corporation. They can also try to pay taxes as an S corporation. Paying taxes as an S corporation allows LLCs to receive pass-through taxation treatment while also obtaining certain self-employment-related tax savings. However, there are cons to electing S corporation tax treatment. Specifically, the IRS places more restrictions on companies that identify as S corporations. It also keeps a closer eye on those companies’ financial activities. To learn more about what taxation approach is best for your LLC, you should consult a tax professional.

    Aside from federal taxes, LLCs have to pay various state taxes. First, LLCs have to pay Arkansas’s annual franchise tax, which requires an EIN. Depending on their activities and situation, Arkansas LLCs may also have to pay state withholding taxes, sales and use taxes, unemployment insurance taxes, and good-specific taxes. Finally, your LLC may be responsible for paying certain local and municipal taxes depending on its location.

  • According to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website, the estimated processing time is between 2 to 10 business days. 

  • No. It’s not a requirement to file your LLC’s operating agreement with the Arkansas state government. But, because your operating agreement is vital to your LLC’s daily operations, keep at least one copy saved in a safe place. Note: If you’re a ZenBusiness customer, you can keep digital copies of your operating agreement and other important documents stored safely in your dashboard. 

  • Most business owners decide to take advantage of an LLC’s pass-through taxation so that they pay state and federal income taxes only on their personal income rather than at both the business and individual owner’s levels. For single-member LLCs, this usually means being taxed as a sole proprietor. And for multi-member LLCs, this means being taxed as a partnership.

    That said, some LLC owners may decide to file taxes as a corporation. While not the ideal choice for all LLC owners, adopting this approach has advantages for some LLCs. Reach out to a qualified tax expert to learn more about how different tax treatments will affect your tax picture.

  • Yes. Arkansas state law allows business owners to operate a series LLC. If you haven’t heard of the concept before, a series LLC features a “parent” LLC that serves as the base for several subordinate, or “child,” LLCs. Each child LLC under the parent LLC operates independently. In addition, each child LLC has asset protection, so the liabilities of one child LLC can’t impact the other child LLCs. Think of it like a tree, with the master LLC being the tree trunk and the individual series LLCs being separate branches. Note: ZenBusiness does not offer Series LLC formation services at this time. 

  • To dissolve an Arkansas LLC, you’ll file a Statement of Dissolution with the Arkansas Secretary of State. Make sure you include the appropriate fee. However, there are other steps you should take before you file a Statement of Dissolution. For instance, you’ll also need to submit your Final Franchise Tax Report and follow any protocols for winding up set forth in your operating agreement. See our guide on dissolving your Arkansas business to learn more about winding up your business properly.

  • One of the benefits of an operating agreement is that it allows you to determine in advance how ownership transfer works in your LLC. If you have an operating agreement in place, it should contain directions for transferring ownership. If your operating agreement doesn’t contain those instructions, you’ll have to follow Arkansas law by default.

    Generally speaking, a member’s rights usually can’t be transferred without the approval of all the other members. In addition, depending on the exact situation, transferring ownership may trigger a change in your LLC’s membership. Arkansas requires LLCs to report some changes in management to the state. 

    While Arkansas law does not require companies to report its owners to the Secretary of State, you do need to report your management structure. Therefore, if a change in ownership also changes the management structure, you’ll need to report it to the Secretary of State. Learn more about transferring ownership of an Arkansas LLC

  • Yes. However, Arkansas refers to DBA names as “fictitious names.” To obtain a fictitious name, apply for one with the Arkansas Secretary of State.

  • The answer depends on your operating agreement. If you have an operating agreement that addresses the issue of removing a member, you must follow that procedure unless it violates Arkansas law. If your LLC doesn’t have an operating agreement that touches on this issue, you’ll have to follow the default procedure in Arkansas’s Uniform LLC Act.

  • Yes and no. Arkansas LLCs must pay an annual franchise tax on or before May 1 of every calendar year. The forms for these franchise taxes essentially serve as the state’s version of annual reports. Outside of these annual franchise tax reports, there is no annual report requirement. Even though they are a bit different from other states’ annual reports, we can help you prepare to file Arkansas annual franchise tax reports with our annual report service.

  • Technically, you aren’t required to have a business plan for your LLC. However, it’s definitely a good idea to create a business plan before you start an LLC in Arkansas. That’s because a well-written business plan serves as a roadmap for your new small business. This document can even help you acquire funding from banks or potential partners. Learn more about creating an effective business plan and find a step-by-step template here

  • No. Unlike a few other states, there’s no need to publish the news of your LLC’s formation in a local newspaper or gazette.

  • Arkansas doesn’t have any explicit laws governing whether different professions can form a PLLC together. However, your industry’s regulatory board will have the final say on whether you can organize a PLLC with other professions or not. In some cases, similar trades might be able to organize together, and in other cases they might not. Please consult with your industry’s board for full guidelines.

Disclaimer: The content on this page is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have specific questions about any of these topics, seek the counsel of a licensed professional.

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Written by Team ZenBusiness

LLC Formation States Near Arkansas

Start Your LLC in Arkansas