Want to start a business in the tax-friendly Granite State? Forming an LLC in New Hampshire doesn't have to drown you in paperwork. With a straightforward $100 filing fee and no general business license requirement, New Hampshire makes it simple to establish your business presence. Plus, with no sales tax and no income tax, you'll keep more of what you earn.

Don't let other websites overcomplicate the process – setting up your New Hampshire LLC is a matter of following some basic steps and avoiding unnecessary expenses. 

Whether you're launching a tech startup in Manchester or opening a shop in Portsmouth, we'll walk you through the exact steps to form your LLC without the hidden costs.

Forming Your New Hampshire LLC

Before we get into the details, here's what you need to know about starting your LLC in the Granite State:

• Cost-Effective Setup: Basic filing fee is just $100 by mail or $102 online. There's no general business license requirement, and you can save money by being your own registered agent. Most businesses can get started for under $150 total.
• Quick Processing: Online applications typically process within 2 business days, while mail applications take 1-3 weeks. No need to pay extra for expedited service if you file online.
• Essential Requirements: You'll need a unique business name, registered agent with a physical New Hampshire address, and Certificate of Formation. No complicated paperwork or hidden requirements.
• Annual Obligations: File your annual report by April 1st ($100 fee). No franchise taxes or complex ongoing fees to worry about. New Hampshire keeps it simple with just one annual filing.
• Tax Advantages: With no sales tax, no income tax, and no franchise tax, New Hampshire is truly business-friendly. Plus, smaller businesses may be exempt from Business Enterprise Tax, saving you even more.

The Basics of Starting Your New Hampshire LLC

Don't get overwhelmed by what you read elsewhere. You don't need expensive services or complicated legal help to get started. Most entrepreneurs can complete this paperwork in less than 30 minutes through NH QuickStart.

Step 1: Choose Your LLC Name

Picking your New Hampshire LLC name isn't just about creativity – you need to follow specific state rules to get approved. Your LLC name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." Most businesses use "LLC" to keep it simple. Before falling in love with a name, check if it's available using New Hampshire QuickStart Business Search – your name must be distinguishable from other registered businesses.

Watch out for these requirements that could get your filing rejected:

• No restricted words (like "bank," "insurance," or "engineering") unless you have proper licensing
• Can't use words suggesting government affiliation
• Must be distinguishable from existing business names
• Can't use offensive language or misleading terms

Once your name availability is confirmed, if you want to secure it (only necessary if you’re waiting to file) fill out an Application for Reservation of Name.

Pro tip: Skip the $15 name reservation fee if you plan to file your LLC formation documents within a few days. Filing your Certificate of Formation automatically secures your name, so there's no need to pay extra for a reservation. If you need more time, you can reserve your chosen name for 120 days – but most businesses don't need this extra step.

Step 2: Register Your LLC 

In the state of New Hampshire, it is perfectly legal to act as your own registered agent. This will save you money in the long run as registered agent services will charge from $100-$300 annually.

You’ll need to Provide:

• LLC name and address.
• Registered agent details. (you can AND SHOULD act as your own agent).
• Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed).

Step 3: Certificate of Formation

The Certificate of Formation is your LLC's birth certificate. File online through NH QuickStart for fastest processing and save $2 on the filing fee. ($100 Certificate of formation in the image above) Filing Fee: $100 (online or by mail).

You'll need to provide:

• Your LLC name
• Principal office address
• Registered agent information
• Management structure (member or manager-managed)
• Signature of an authorized person

On the QuickStart main page, click “Create a New Business.”

Click “Create an Account”

Fill out the required information through the portal. Remember, you can fill yourself out as the registered agent.

Fill out your Certificate of Formation, submit and wait for approval.

Save yourself time and avoid rejection by double-checking all information before submitting. Common mistakes like missing signatures or incomplete addresses can delay your approval.

Complete Post-Filing Requirements

Once your LLC is approved, knock out these essential tasks to keep your business compliant and protected:

Get Your Business Basics Set Up

• Apply for an EIN (free through the IRS website)
• Open a separate business bank account
• Create an operating agreement (not required by law but crucial for protection)
• Consider business insurance options

Stay Compliant

• File annual reports by April 1st ($100 fee)
• Maintain current registered agent information
• Track any permit renewal deadlines
• Check with the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs to see if your business requires any specific licenses

Smart Money-Saving Tips

• Be your own registered agent if you have a New Hampshire address
• File online to save time and money on processing
• Skip name reservation if filing your LLC paperwork soon
• Write your own operating agreement using free templates
• Handle your own annual report filings

Launch Your Business Today

Getting your New Hampshire LLC up and running can go smoothly if you know the steps to look for. Use our guide and think about online filing, it will save both your money and your time while working on a solid foundation for your business. The total cost to form your LLC will be between $100-$102, plus any optional services you choose.

Let's get you started! Head to NH QuickStart and start your online filing – you could have your LLC up and running in just a few days.