Learn the requirements for forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) in Washington State. Knowing the rules will help you decide if Washington is the right formation state—and make the formation process go more smoothly.

Naming your WA LLC

The name of a Washington LLC must include one of the following:  Limited Liability Company, the words Limited Liability Co., L.L.C., or LLC. Plus, the name must be distinguishable from any other formally organized entity registered with the Secretary of State’s office, such as corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and limited liability partnerships.

Member/Manager information

The following are Washington’s requirements for the members and managers of LLCs:

• Minimum number. An LLC must have at least one member.
• Residence requirements. Washington does not have a provision specifying where members and managers must reside.
• Age requirements. Washington does not have age requirements for members and managers
• Inclusion in the Certificate of Formation. Member/Manager names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Certificate of Formation.

Requirements for the Certificate of Formation

You form an LLC in Washington by filing Certificate of Formation and paying the required fee. The information required in the formation document varies by state. Washington's requirements include:

• LLC’s name and street address of its principal place of business, whether it is located in the state of Washington or not. You can also add a post office box address—but this must be in addition to, not in lieu of, the street address
• Effective date of formation (immediately or within 90 days of the date of filing)
• Duration of the LLC (perpetual or a specific term)
• Whether the LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed
• Name and address of the Washington Registered Agent and the Consent of the Registered Agent
• Names, addresses, and signature of the organizers (known as Executors in Washington)

Registered Agent

Every Washington LLC must appoint and maintain a Registered Agent with a physical address in Washington. The name and street address must be listed on the Certificate of Formation. A physical, street address is required, but you have the option of listing a mailing address in addition to the street address. Washington requires that the Registered Agent consent to the appointment by signing the Certificate of Formation.

Other filings required at time of incorporation

Some states require additional filings or steps at the time of incorporation, such as a county level filing, publishing notice of the LLC formation in a local newspaper or an initial report filing. Washington requires the following:

• Initial report. Washington requires LLCs to file an initial report within 120 days of when the Certificate of Formation. .

Professional services businesses

Washington allows professionals, such as accountants, attorneys, and physicians, to form a professional limited liability company (PLLC).