Want to launch your business in South Carolina but hate the idea of overpaying or getting confused? Starting an LLC in the Palmetto State is straightforward and cost-effective, with online filing fees of just $110 plus a $15 admin fee. While other states make you wait weeks or pay hundreds more, South Carolina processes online LLC applications within 24 hours and doesn't require complex annual reports for most LLCs. 

We'll walk you through the exact steps to form your South Carolina LLC, skip the expensive formation services – you can handle this yourself and save hundreds.

Forming Your South Carolina LLC: The Essential Facts

Starting an LLC in South Carolina comes with several advantages. Let's take a look at a few:

• Cost-Effective Setup: Basic filing fee is just $110 + $15 admin fee, with no separate state business license requirement. Save money by filing online and acting as your own registered agent.
• Quick Processing: Online applications typically process within 24 hours, while mail applications take up to 2 weeks. Plan ahead - the Secretary of State's office operates Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Essential Requirements: You'll need a unique business name, registered agent with a physical South Carolina address, and Articles of Organization. Most LLCs don't need to file annual reports unless they elect S-Corp taxation.
• Simple Maintenance: South Carolina's requirements are straightforward – maintain a registered agent, keep accurate business records, and stay compliant with state tax obligations. No complex ongoing paperwork or hidden fees.
• Privacy Options: While you can save money by being your own registered agent, using a registered agent service can keep your personal address off public records if privacy is a concern.

How to File Your South Carolina LLC

Let's walk through the exact steps to get your LLC up and running in South Carolina without any unnecessary complications.

Step 1: Choose Your LLC Name

Before spending any money, search your desired business name on South Carolina Business Entity Search to ensure it's available. Your name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." While you can reserve a name for 120 days by paying $25, save that money if you're ready to file your LLC paperwork – filing your Articles of Organization automatically secures your name.

Step 2: Select Your Registered Agent

Here's an easy way to save $100-200 annually: serve as your own registered agent. You'll need a physical South Carolina address (no P.O. boxes) and availability during business hours to receive legal documents. 

While professional registered agent services run $100-300 per year, they're only worth considering if you:

• Travel frequently and can't reliably receive mail
• Want to keep your personal address private
• Don't have a physical address in South Carolina

Step 3: File Your Articles of Organization

Submit your Articles of Organization to the Secretary of State for $110 + $15 admin fee. File online through South Carolina’s Business Filing for fastest processing (24 hours) and provide:

• Your LLC's name
• Principal office address
• Registered agent information
• Whether the LLC is member- or manager-managed
• Organizer information

Once you’re into the website click “Start a New Business Filing”

That takes you straight to the name check. Verify your name is available once you see the green box. 

Then click the “Add New Entity” box and create an account.

Once you receive the verification email, click the login link. You will not be able to log in without verifying your email. 

Log in, go back to the start business page, do the name search, and click “Add New Entity” again.  Choose “Limited Liability Company” and click the blue “Start Filing” button.

Fill out all the information about your business, and submit your LLC paperwork for review. 

Handle Essential Post-Filing Requirements

Once your LLC is approved, complete these critical tasks to keep your business compliant and protected:

Get Your Tax Documents in Order

• Apply for an EIN (free through the IRS website)
• Register for state tax obligations if needed
• Set up a business tax payment schedule

Protect Your Business

• Open a separate business bank account
• Create an operating agreement (not required by law but crucial for protection)
• Consider basic business insurance options
• Check SC Business One Stop for industry-specific licensing requirements.

Keep Your LLC Compliant

• Maintain current registered agent information
• Keep accurate business records
• Track any local permit renewal deadlines
• File state tax returns as required
• Required only if your LLC is taxed as an S Corporation, file Form SC1120S with the Department of Revenue.

Launch Your South Carolina LLC Today

Starting your South Carolina LLC doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By handling the formation yourself, you’ll save money and stay in control of the process—leaving you with more resources to invest in growing your business. The total cost to form your LLC will be between $110-125, plus any optional services you choose.

Let’s get you started! Head to the South Carolina Secretary of State's website and start your online filing – you could have your LLC up and running in just 24 hours.