Virginia LLC Filing Timeline Calculator
Your Virginia LLC Timeline
Filing Options & Costs
Standard Online
3-5 business days
$100
Best for flexibility and cost savings
Expedited (24-hour)
Under 24 hours
$150
Ideal for urgent deadlines
Same-Day
1-2 hours (before 2 PM ET)
$200
Critical deadline situations
Wondering how fast you can turn that business idea into a legal entity in Virginia? The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all number - it depends on a few choices you make along the way. Below you’ll get a clear picture of the typical timelines, the exact steps you need, and some shortcuts to speed things up.
Key Takeaways
- Standard filing with the Virginia State Corporation Commission usually takes 3‑5 business days after you submit online.
- Expedited processing (same‑day or 24‑hour) is available for an extra fee and can shave the wait to under 24 hours.
- Preparing a complete Articles of Organization with a valid registered agent address in Virginia is the biggest time‑saver.
- After the LLC is approved, you’ll need an EIN and possibly a state business license - those can be secured in 1‑2 days each.
Step‑by‑Step Timeline
Here’s the typical flow from “I’ve got a name” to “LLC is live”. Times are based on 2025 filing data from the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) and the Internal Revenue Service.
- Choose a name and check availability - 0‑1 day. Use the SCC’s online name search tool.
- Appoint a registered agent - 0‑1 day. You can be your own agent if you have a physical Virginia address.
- Prepare and file the Articles of Organization - 0‑1 day to draft, then submit.
- Standard online filing: 3‑5 business days processing.
- Expedited (same‑day) filing: 1‑2 hours after payment, if you submit before the SCC’s cutoff (2PM ET).
- Receive the Certificate of Organization - same day for expedited, otherwise 3‑5 days.
- Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS - 1‑2 business days via online application.
- Create an Operating Agreement (optional but recommended) - 0‑2 days, depending on complexity.
- Register for state taxes with the Virginia Department of Taxation - 1‑3 days.
- Apply for any required local business licenses - 1‑7 days, varies by city or county.
In a best‑case scenario (expedited filing, quick EIN, no local license delays), you can have a fully operational Virginia LLC in under 48 hours. Most entrepreneurs opt for the standard route and finish in about a week.
Processing Options & Costs
| Option | Processing Time | Fee (USD) | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Online | 3‑5 business days | $100 | When you have flexibility and want the cheapest route. |
| Expedited (24‑hour) | Within 24 hours | $150 | Need the LLC quickly for a contract or loan. |
| Same‑Day (same‑day processing) | 1‑2 hours (if filed before 2PM ET) | $200 | Critical deadline day‑of, such as a partnership agreement signing. |
Checklist Before You Submit
- Virginia LLC name is unique and ends with “LLC”, “Limited Liability Company”, or similar.
- Registered agent’s name, address, and consent form are ready.
- Completed Articles of Organization (online form includes principal office address, manager/member info).
- Payment method for filing fee (credit card or ACH) set up.
- Optional: Draft an Operating Agreement to outline ownership and management.
- Plan for obtaining an EIN - have your SSN or ITIN handy if you’re the sole member.
- Research local licensing requirements for your city or county.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Missing or inaccurate agent address - The SCC will reject the filing. Double‑check the spelling and verify that the agent is authorized to receive legal documents.
Choosing a name that’s already taken - Run the name search twice: once on the SCC portal and again on the USPTO database if you plan to trademark.
Delaying the EIN application - You can request an EIN instantly online; waiting for a paper form adds days.
Forgetting local permits - Some counties require a “Business, Professional & Occupational License” (BPOL). Check the county website early to avoid surprise fees.
What Happens After Your LLC Is Approved?
Receiving the Certificate of Organization is just the start. Here’s what you’ll need to do within the first 90 days to stay compliant:
- File the annual report and pay the $50 fee each year (due by the last day of the month you formed the LLC).
- Register for Virginia state taxes if you’ll have employees or sell taxable goods.
- Maintain a registered agent - you can switch agents later, but you must file a change of agent form.
- Keep the Operating Agreement updated whenever ownership or management changes.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a Virginia LLC if I file online?
Standard online filings are processed in 3‑5 business days. Expedited options can reduce that to under 24 hours for an extra fee.
Do I need a physical office in Virginia?
Yes, the Articles of Organization require a principal office address in Virginia. It can be a home address, a co‑working space, or a virtual office that provides a physical mailing location.
Can I act as my own registered agent?
You can, as long as you have a physical Virginia address where legal documents can be delivered during normal business hours. Many entrepreneurs hire a professional service to keep a consistent address.
Is an Operating Agreement required in Virginia?
Virginia law doesn’t require it, but banks, investors, and courts expect one. It clarifies ownership, profit distribution, and management duties, which can prevent disputes later.
How quickly can I get an EIN after my LLC is approved?
If you apply online through the IRS website, you receive the EIN instantly. Mail or fax applications add 4‑6 weeks.
What are the ongoing costs of keeping a Virginia LLC?
Yearly fees include the $50 annual report, registered agent fees (if you use a service, typically $100‑$150), and any state or local licensing costs. Budget about $200‑$300 per year for a simple single‑member LLC.
Can I file the Articles of Organization by mail?
Yes, you can mail the paper form to the SCC, but processing times increase to 7‑10 business days and you miss out on the online fee discount.
Do I need a separate Virginia business license if I’m an online retailer?
If you sell taxable goods, you’ll need a sales tax permit from the Virginia Department of Taxation, which is separate from a local business license. The permit is obtained online and is usually approved within 1‑2 days.
Next Steps: Fast‑Track Your LLC
If time is of the essence, follow this quick‑action plan:
- Reserve your name via the SCC’s portal (free reservation for 30 days).
- Hire a professional registered agent that advertises same‑day filing.
- Prepare the Articles of Organization using the online form - have your address and manager info ready.
- Select the “Same‑Day” filing option and pay the $200 fee.
- Immediately apply for an EIN online; you’ll get the number in minutes.
- Download the Certificate of Organization, file your Operating Agreement, and register for state taxes.
By ticking those boxes, you can legally conduct business in Virginia within 24‑48 hours.
Whether you opt for the budget‑friendly standard route or need a rush filing, knowing the exact steps and timelines removes the guesswork. Get your paperwork ready, pick the right filing speed, and you’ll have a Virginia LLC before you know it.
