South Carolina LLC — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in South Carolina?
The state filing fee to form an LLC in South Carolina is $110. That's priced in the middle of the national range for LLC filing fees. There's no recurring annual report fee on top of that. For $199 we prepare and submit your Articles to the state. That doesn't include the $110 state fee, our registered agent service ($99 first year, $119/year on renewal), EIN application help, or an operating agreement — those are each their own line item.
How long does it take to form an LLC in South Carolina?
Standard processing runs 5-10 business days. If you pay $25 for expedited service, you can usually get to 24 hours. We file on your behalf and notify you as soon as the South Carolina Secretary of State processes the formation.
Does South Carolina require an annual report for LLCs?
No. South Carolina does not require an annual report for standard LLCs. This is one of a small number of states with this rule. You still have federal tax obligations and must maintain a registered agent.
Do I need a registered agent for my South Carolina LLC?
Yes. Every LLC registered with the South Carolina Secretary of State is required to maintain a registered agent with a physical South Carolina address. This is true from the moment you file your formation documents and remains true for as long as the LLC exists. Our registered agent service runs $99 for the first year, billed separately from any LLC filing fee, then renews at $119/year starting in year two.
Can I form an LLC in South Carolina if I live in another state?
Yes. You don't have to be a South Carolina resident to form a South Carolina LLC. You do, however, need a registered agent with a physical South Carolina address — and our registered agent service ($99 first year, $119/year on renewal) can handle that for you.
Do I need an operating agreement for my South Carolina LLC?
South Carolina doesn't require you to file an operating agreement with the state, but you absolutely should have one. Banks require it to open a business account. Courts rely on it in disputes. Without one, South Carolina's default LLC rules apply — which may not match your intentions. Drafting one yourself is fine, or you can buy our South Carolina operating agreement template as a paid add-on.
How do I get an EIN for my South Carolina LLC?
Apply directly on IRS.gov — it's free and takes about 10 minutes. You'll receive your EIN immediately after completing the online application. Never pay a third party for an EIN. If you'd like assistance with the EIN application, we offer it as a separate paid add-on. The IRS application is always free directly.
What's included in your formation service?
Here's what the $199 fee buys: we prepare and file your South Carolina Articles of Organization with the state. That's it. The $110 state fee goes directly to the South Carolina Secretary of State. Registered agent, operating agreement, and EIN are each separate optional services.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out Monday through Friday and we'll answer any questions about forming an LLC in South Carolina or how our services work.