On this page · 10 sections
- Why Choose an LLC in New Mexico?
- LLC Requirements for New Mexico Business Owners
- Step-by-Step LLC Formation in New Mexico
- Understanding the Registered Agent Requirement
- The Importance of an Operating Agreement
- LLC Formation Fees in New Mexico
- Obtaining Your EIN in New Mexico
- Ongoing Compliance and Annual Reports
- Understanding LLC Taxation in New Mexico
- Hiring Employees in New Mexico
Why Choose an LLC in New Mexico for Your Business?
As a small business owner in New Mexico, choosing the right legal structure is a foundational decision that impacts everything from liability protection to tax obligations. The Limited Liability Company, or LLC, stands out as a popular choice for entrepreneurs across the state. It masterfully blends the operational flexibility and pass-through taxation of a partnership or sole proprietorship with the crucial liability shield of a corporation. This means that, generally, your personal assets – your home, car, and savings – are protected from business debts and lawsuits. If your LLC incurs debt or faces litigation, creditors and claimants typically can only pursue the assets owned by the LLC itself, not your personal property. This separation is invaluable for peace of mind and financial security. New Mexico’s business environment is increasingly dynamic, with growing sectors in technology, film, and renewable energy, making it an attractive place to launch and grow. An LLC structure is well-suited to this evolving landscape, offering a robust framework for businesses of all sizes. Furthermore, New Mexico offers competitive advantages for businesses, and understanding how an LLC aligns with these advantages can be a significant strategic move. For instance, the state’s tax structure can be favorable for LLCs, especially when compared to C-corporations, due to its pass-through taxation model. This allows profits and losses to be reported on the personal income tax returns of the owners, avoiding the double taxation often associated with traditional corporations. The relative simplicity of management and compliance compared to a corporation also appeals to many small business owners who want to focus on running their operations rather than getting bogged down in complex corporate formalities. The flexibility in management structure – whether member-managed or manager-managed – allows you to tailor the operational control to your specific needs and expertise. This adaptability is key for a growing business navigating the unique challenges and opportunities within New Mexico. By forming an LLC, you signal professionalism and a commitment to structure, which can enhance credibility with customers, suppliers, and potential investors. It’s a clear step towards establishing a legitimate and enduring business presence in the Land of Enchantment.
Essential LLC Requirements for New Mexico Business Owners
Before you can officially form your LLC in New Mexico, there are a few key requirements you must meet. These are designed to ensure your business is properly registered and compliant with state law. First and foremost, you'll need to choose a unique business name for your LLC. This name must be distinguishable from other business names already registered with the New Mexico Secretary of State. It's highly recommended to conduct a thorough name search on the Secretary of State's website to confirm availability before filing any official documents. Your chosen name must also include a designator such as 'Limited Liability Company,' 'LLC,' or 'L.L.C.' to clearly identify it as an LLC. Next, you must designate a registered agent. This is a person or company responsible for receiving official legal and tax documents on behalf of your LLC. The registered agent must have a physical street address within New Mexico (a P.O. Box is not sufficient) and be available during normal business hours to accept service of process. This is a critical role, as failure to maintain a registered agent can lead to the dissolution of your LLC by the state. While you can serve as your own registered agent if you meet these requirements, many businesses opt for a professional registered agent service for privacy and reliability. You will also need to file Articles of Organization with the New Mexico Secretary of State. This is the official document that legally creates your LLC. It requires specific information, including the LLC's name, the name and address of the registered agent, and the duration of the LLC (usually perpetual). The filing fee for the Articles of Organization must be paid at the time of submission. Beyond these core state requirements, consider the operational aspects. While not strictly mandated by the state for filing, having an Operating Agreement is highly advisable. This internal document outlines the ownership structure, management roles, and operating procedures of your LLC, providing a clear roadmap for internal governance and dispute resolution. It’s a vital tool for clarity and preventing future misunderstandings among members. Finally, be aware of any industry-specific licenses or permits required for your particular business type at both the state and local (county or city) levels. These vary widely depending on your business activities. For example, a restaurant will need health permits, while a construction company will need contractor licenses. Researching these requirements early on is crucial to avoid operational disruptions and penalties. Meeting these requirements lays a solid foundation for your New Mexico LLC.
Step-by-Step Guide to Forming Your LLC in New Mexico
Forming an LLC in New Mexico involves a clear, sequential process. Following these steps diligently ensures your business is legally established and ready to operate. The first crucial step is choosing a name for your LLC. As mentioned, it must be unique and include an appropriate LLC designator. Perform a thorough search on the New Mexico Secretary of State's business database to confirm availability. Once you've settled on a name, you'll need to designate a registered agent. This individual or company must have a physical address in New Mexico and be available to accept legal documents during business hours. If you plan to use a commercial registered agent service, research providers and select one that fits your needs and budget. The core of the formation process is filing the Articles of Organization. This document is submitted to the New Mexico Secretary of State. You can typically file online through the Secretary of State's website, by mail, or in person. The Articles of Organization must include your LLC's name, the registered agent's name and address, and potentially other information depending on the specific form version used. Ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission. Along with the Articles of Organization, you must pay the state filing fee. As of 2026, this fee is $50. Payment can usually be made via credit card for online filings or by check or money order for mail-in submissions. After filing, the Secretary of State will review your documents. If approved, they will officially file your Articles of Organization, and your LLC will be legally formed. This process can take a few business days for online filings, potentially longer for mail-in submissions. It’s wise to check the Secretary of State’s website for current processing times. Once your LLC is formed, you should create an Operating Agreement. While not filed with the state, this internal document is vital. It details ownership percentages, member responsibilities, profit and loss distribution, and procedures for adding or removing members. It helps prevent disputes and clarifies how your business will be managed. The next step is to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, especially if you plan to hire employees or operate as a corporation for tax purposes. You can apply for an EIN online for free directly through the IRS website. This nine-digit number is like a Social Security number for your business, used for tax filing and opening business bank accounts. Finally, research and obtain any necessary federal, state, county, and city licenses or permits required for your specific industry and location. This might include business licenses, professional licenses, health permits, or zoning permits. Each locality and industry has unique requirements, so thorough due diligence is essential. Completing these steps establishes your LLC legally and operationally in New Mexico.
Understanding the Registered Agent Requirement in New Mexico
Every LLC registered in New Mexico is required by law to maintain a registered agent. This is a non-negotiable requirement for keeping your business in good standing with the state. The registered agent serves as the official point of contact for your LLC, responsible for receiving important legal documents, such as lawsuits (service of process), official government correspondence, and tax notices from the state. The primary requirement for a registered agent is that they must have a physical street address within the state of New Mexico. This is often referred to as a 'statutory agent' address. A P.O. Box is not acceptable for this purpose, as legal documents need to be physically deliverable. The registered agent must also be available during standard business hours (typically 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday) to accept these deliveries. The consequences of not having a registered agent, or if your registered agent is unavailable to receive documents, can be severe. The New Mexico Secretary of State may deem your business non-compliant, potentially leading to administrative dissolution. This means your LLC could be legally dissolved, forcing you to cease operations and potentially lose your business name. Reinstating a dissolved LLC can be a complex and costly process. Who can be a registered agent? You have a few options. First, you can appoint yourself or another member or manager of the LLC as the registered agent, provided you meet the physical address and availability requirements and are comfortable having your personal address associated with these official notices. Second, you can designate a trusted friend or family member who resides in New Mexico and meets the criteria. Third, and often the most practical choice for many small business owners, is to hire a professional registered agent service. These companies specialize in fulfilling this role, offering reliability, professionalism, and privacy. They maintain a physical office in New Mexico and have staff dedicated to receiving and promptly forwarding documents to you. Using a service can prevent missed deliveries, protect your personal address from public record, and ensure compliance even if you are traveling or unavailable. When choosing a registered agent service, look for companies with a strong reputation, clear communication channels, and reasonable pricing. Many formation services, including Lovie, offer registered agent services as part of their comprehensive packages, simplifying the process further. Regardless of who you choose, ensuring your registered agent is reliable and accessible is paramount to maintaining your LLC's good standing in New Mexico.
The Critical Role of an Operating Agreement in New Mexico
While New Mexico law does not mandate that LLCs file an Operating Agreement with the Secretary of State, it is an indispensable internal document for any responsible business owner. Think of it as the internal rulebook for your LLC, defining how the business will be run, managed, and how profits and losses will be distributed. Its absence can lead to confusion, disputes, and operational inefficiencies, especially as your business grows or if ownership changes. An Operating Agreement typically outlines several key areas. Firstly, it clearly defines the ownership structure of the LLC, specifying the percentage of ownership held by each member (owner). This is crucial for understanding voting rights and distribution of profits and assets. Secondly, it details the management structure. New Mexico LLCs can be either member-managed (all members participate in day-to-day management) or manager-managed (members appoint one or more managers, who may or may not be members, to run the business). The agreement clarifies who has the authority to make decisions, sign contracts, and manage operations. Thirdly, it establishes procedures for admitting new members, the process for members to voluntarily withdraw or transfer their interest, and how to handle the departure or death of a member. These provisions are vital for business continuity and smooth transitions. Fourthly, the agreement details how profits and losses will be allocated and distributed among the members. While the IRS generally allows flexibility in this allocation for LLCs, the Operating Agreement must clearly state the agreed-upon method. Fifthly, it outlines procedures for holding member meetings, voting requirements, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Having a clear process for resolving disagreements can save significant time, money, and stress. For single-member LLCs (SMLLCs), an Operating Agreement is equally important. It helps to reinforce the separation between the owner and the business, which is critical for maintaining liability protection. It also serves as a clear record of the business's operational framework. Drafting a comprehensive Operating Agreement might seem daunting, but it’s a worthwhile investment in your LLC's future stability. Many online resources and legal professionals can assist with creating a customized agreement. Lovie can also help by providing templates and guidance on key provisions to consider, ensuring you have a solid foundation for your internal governance. Properly drafted, your Operating Agreement will be a powerful tool for managing your New Mexico LLC effectively and preventing future conflicts.
Understanding LLC Formation and Ongoing Fees in New Mexico
When forming an LLC in New Mexico, it's essential to budget for both the initial formation costs and any ongoing fees required to maintain your business's good standing. Understanding these costs upfront helps in financial planning and avoids unexpected expenses. The primary initial cost is the filing fee for the Articles of Organization. As of 2026, the New Mexico Secretary of State charges a $50 fee to file these documents. This fee is paid at the time you submit your application to legally create your LLC. This is a one-time fee associated with the initial formation. If you choose to use a professional registered agent service, there will be an additional annual fee for their services. These fees typically range from $100 to $300 per year, depending on the provider and the services included. While you can act as your own registered agent to save this cost, many business owners find the value of privacy and reliability offered by a professional service well worth the investment. Beyond the initial formation, New Mexico requires LLCs to file an annual report. This report, filed with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department, serves to update the state on your business's information and confirm its continued operation. As of 2026, the fee for filing the annual report is $25. This report is typically due by the 15th day of the fourth month following the close of your LLC’s tax year. For example, if your LLC’s tax year ends on December 31st, your annual report would be due around April 15th of the following year. Failure to file the annual report on time can result in penalties and could eventually lead to administrative dissolution of your LLC by the state. Therefore, it's crucial to mark this deadline on your calendar and ensure timely filing. If your LLC operates in specific industries, you may also need to obtain various licenses and permits at the state, county, or city level. The fees for these licenses vary significantly depending on the type of business and its location. For example, a construction company might need a contractor's license, while a restaurant requires health permits and liquor licenses. It's your responsibility to research and pay for all necessary licenses and permits relevant to your business operations. For businesses that plan to hire employees, there will be costs associated with state and federal payroll taxes, unemployment insurance, and workers' compensation insurance. These are ongoing operational costs that need to be factored into your business budget. Lovie simplifies many of these initial costs by including the state filing fee and registered agent service in its single, affordable monthly plan, making the formation process more predictable and manageable for small business owners. Staying informed about these fees and deadlines is key to maintaining your LLC's compliance and good standing in New Mexico.
Why Your New Mexico LLC Needs an EIN (and How to Get One)
An Employer Identification Number, or EIN, is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to businesses operating in the United States. It's essentially a Social Security number for your business. While not every LLC in New Mexico is legally required to obtain an EIN, it is highly recommended for most small business owners, and often necessary depending on your business activities. You are generally required to obtain an EIN if your LLC plans to hire employees, operates as a corporation or partnership for tax purposes, or files excise tax returns. Even if your LLC is a single-member entity and doesn't plan to hire employees immediately, obtaining an EIN is a wise step. It allows you to open a business bank account under your LLC's name, which is crucial for maintaining the separation between your personal and business finances – a key element of liability protection. Banks typically require an EIN to open a business account. Furthermore, an EIN can be used to establish business credit, apply for business loans, and process tax payments. It adds a layer of legitimacy and professionalism to your business. Applying for an EIN is a straightforward process and, importantly, it is completely free when done directly through the IRS website. You can complete the application online in as little as 10-15 minutes. The application requires basic information about your LLC, including its legal name, address, and the name and Social Security number of a responsible party (usually a principal owner or officer). Once the application is submitted, you will receive your EIN immediately upon approval. It's vital to only apply through the official IRS website (IRS.gov) to avoid third-party services that may charge a fee for this free government service. Lovie assists with the EIN application process as part of its formation package, ensuring you get this essential number efficiently. Remember, an EIN is for federal tax purposes. You will still need to comply with New Mexico state tax requirements, which are separate. For instance, if your LLC is subject to New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax, you'll need to register with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department separately. However, having an EIN simplifies many aspects of business operation, from banking to tax filing, making it a fundamental step for any serious New Mexico small business owner looking to establish a strong and compliant presence.
Staying Compliant: Annual Reports and LLC Maintenance in New Mexico
Maintaining your LLC's good standing with the state of New Mexico requires ongoing attention to compliance requirements, primarily through the filing of an annual report. This report is a critical mechanism for the state to keep its business records up-to-date and to ensure that businesses operating within its borders remain active and compliant. As of 2026, New Mexico requires all LLCs to file an annual report with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department. This report is due by the 15th day of the fourth month after the close of your LLC's tax year. For most businesses operating on a calendar year basis (January 1 to December 31), this means the annual report is due around April 15th each year. The filing fee for the annual report is currently $25. This fee is relatively low, but its timely payment is crucial. The annual report essentially serves to confirm that your LLC is still in operation and to provide updated information, such as changes in your registered agent, business address, or management structure. While the report itself doesn't require extensive financial disclosures, accuracy and completeness are paramount. Failure to file the annual report by the deadline can have serious consequences. The state may impose penalties for late filings, and more significantly, persistent non-compliance can lead to administrative dissolution. If your LLC is administratively dissolved, it loses its legal status, and you will be prohibited from conducting business under that name. Reinstating a dissolved LLC can be a lengthy and expensive process, often involving back-due fees, penalties, and new filings. Beyond the annual report, maintaining compliance involves several other considerations. Ensure your registered agent information is always current and that your agent is reliably receiving and forwarding communications. Keep your business records organized, including your Operating Agreement and any amendments. If you have obtained specific licenses or permits, ensure they are renewed on time. For businesses with employees, strict adherence to payroll tax filings and other employment regulations is essential. Lovie provides compliance monitoring services to help you stay on track with key deadlines, including annual report filings, and sends reminders to help prevent missed due dates. Proactive compliance management is not just about avoiding penalties; it’s about safeguarding your liability protection and ensuring the long-term viability and credibility of your New Mexico business. Treating compliance seriously from the outset is a hallmark of a successful and sustainable business.
Understanding LLC Taxation in New Mexico
One of the most significant advantages of forming an LLC is its flexible approach to taxation. By default, the IRS treats LLCs as 'disregarded entities' for tax purposes if they have only one owner (a single-member LLC or SMLLC). This means the LLC itself does not pay federal income tax. Instead, the income and losses of the business 'pass-through' to the owner's personal income tax return (reported on Schedule C of Form 1040). This avoids the 'double taxation' issue that corporations face, where profits are taxed at the corporate level and again when distributed to shareholders as dividends. If your LLC has multiple members (a multi-member LLC), it is treated as a partnership by default for federal tax purposes. Similar to SMLLCs, partnerships do not pay entity-level income tax. Instead, profits and losses are allocated among the members according to the Operating Agreement and reported on each member's personal tax return (via Schedule K-1). The partnership itself must file an informational return (Form 1065). However, an LLC has the flexibility to elect to be taxed differently. An LLC can choose to be taxed as a C-corporation or an S-corporation by filing specific forms with the IRS (Form 8832 for C-corp election, Form 2553 for S-corp election). Electing S-corp status can sometimes lead to tax savings, particularly for businesses with significant profits, by allowing owners to take a portion of their earnings as a salary (subject to employment taxes) and the remainder as distributions (not subject to employment taxes), provided the salary is reasonable. The choice between default taxation, C-corp, or S-corp status depends heavily on your business's profitability, growth plans, and individual tax situation. Consulting with a tax professional is highly recommended to determine the most advantageous tax classification for your specific circumstances. On the state level, New Mexico imposes its own tax requirements. Most LLCs operating in New Mexico will be subject to the state's Gross Receipts Tax (GRT), which is a tax on the total amount of business done in the state. The GRT rate varies by location, with state and local components. You must register with the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department to obtain a CRS ID number and file GRT returns, typically on a monthly or quarterly basis. LLCs may also be subject to other state taxes, such as withholding taxes if they have employees. Understanding both federal and New Mexico state tax obligations is crucial for compliance. Lovie focuses on the formation process and EIN, but we always advise consulting with tax professionals for specific tax advice.
Navigating Employee Hiring in New Mexico for Your LLC
As your New Mexico LLC grows, you may reach a point where hiring employees becomes necessary. This transition brings new responsibilities and compliance obligations at both the state and federal levels. It's crucial to understand these requirements to ensure you're operating legally and treating your employees fairly. First and foremost, if you plan to hire employees, you will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. As discussed earlier, this is essential for tax reporting purposes related to employees. Once you have your EIN, you'll need to register your business with the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS). This registration is necessary for state payroll tax purposes, including unemployment insurance contributions. You'll be assigned an account number for reporting wages and paying unemployment taxes. New Mexico requires employers to withhold state income tax from employee wages, similar to federal income tax withholding. You'll need to obtain the necessary forms from the NMDWS for your employees to complete (such as the NM W-4) to determine the correct amount of tax to withhold. Employers are also required to provide workers' compensation insurance coverage for their employees. This insurance protects employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses. You can obtain workers' compensation insurance through licensed insurance carriers in New Mexico. The cost of this insurance varies based on factors like the industry risk and payroll size. Additionally, federal laws mandate compliance with wage and hour regulations, such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets minimum wage, overtime pay, and record-keeping requirements. You must ensure you are paying at least the federal minimum wage (and any applicable state or local minimum wage, if higher) and correctly calculating overtime for non-exempt employees. Proper classification of workers as employees versus independent contractors is also critical. Misclassifying an employee as an independent contractor can lead to significant penalties, including back taxes, fines, and interest. Generally, if the worker performs services that are integral to your business and you control what they do and how they do it, they are likely an employee. Beyond taxes and insurance, you'll need to adhere to workplace safety regulations, typically overseen by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at the federal level. Maintaining a safe work environment is a legal requirement. It's also important to establish clear employment policies and procedures, often documented in an Employee Handbook. This handbook can cover topics like company policies, code of conduct, benefits, and disciplinary procedures, helping to set expectations and manage employee relations effectively. Navigating these requirements can be complex. Consider consulting with an HR professional or an employment lawyer specializing in New Mexico labor laws to ensure full compliance as you build your team.
Frequently asked questions
Can I be my own registered agent in New Mexico?
Yes, you can be your own registered agent in New Mexico, provided you meet the state's requirements. This means you must have a physical street address within New Mexico (not a P.O. Box) and be available during normal business hours to receive official legal and tax documents on behalf of your LLC. While this option saves on the cost of a professional service, it means your personal address will be publicly listed in the state's records. It also requires you to be consistently available to accept service of process. Many business owners prefer to use a professional registered agent service for privacy, reliability, and to ensure that important documents are never missed, especially if they travel frequently or have unpredictable schedules. Ultimately, the choice depends on your comfort level with public disclosure and your availability.
How long does it take to form an LLC in New Mexico?
The time it takes to form an LLC in New Mexico can vary depending on the filing method and the current workload of the New Mexico Secretary of State's office. Typically, online filings are processed much faster than mail-in submissions. For online filings, you can often expect approval within a few business days, sometimes even the same day, once your Articles of Organization are submitted and accepted. If you file by mail, it may take longer, potentially one to two weeks or more, depending on mail volume and processing times. Expedited processing options may be available for an additional fee, though this varies. It's always a good idea to check the New Mexico Secretary of State's website for the most current processing times and any available expedited services. Remember that this timeframe only covers the state's approval of your formation documents; obtaining an EIN from the IRS and securing necessary licenses and permits are separate processes that occur after your LLC is officially formed.
What is the difference between an LLC and a sole proprietorship in New Mexico?
The primary difference between an LLC and a sole proprietorship in New Mexico lies in liability protection and operational structure. A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure, where the business is owned and run by one person, and there is no legal distinction between the owner and the business. This means the owner is personally liable for all business debts and obligations. If the business is sued or incurs debt, the owner's personal assets (like their home or car) are at risk. An LLC, on the other hand, creates a separate legal entity from its owner(s). This separation provides limited liability protection, meaning the owner's personal assets are generally protected from business debts and lawsuits. While both structures offer pass-through taxation (profits and losses are reported on the owner's personal tax return), the LLC offers a crucial layer of personal asset protection that a sole proprietorship lacks. Forming an LLC requires filing official documents with the state and adhering to certain compliance requirements, whereas a sole proprietorship requires minimal paperwork to start.
Do I need an attorney to form an LLC in New Mexico?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney to form an LLC in New Mexico. The process involves filing specific documents with the Secretary of State, and many entrepreneurs successfully complete this independently or with the assistance of online formation services like Lovie. These services can prepare and file the necessary paperwork, including the Articles of Organization, and help with obtaining an EIN and registered agent services. However, an attorney can be beneficial if your business structure is complex, if you have unique ownership arrangements, or if you require detailed legal advice regarding contracts, intellectual property, or specific regulatory compliance. For straightforward LLC formations, the cost of an attorney may be significantly higher than using a formation service. It's a decision based on the complexity of your business needs and your comfort level with the legal and administrative aspects of formation.
What are the tax implications of an LLC in New Mexico?
In New Mexico, LLCs benefit from flexible taxation. By default, the IRS treats single-member LLCs (SMLLCs) as 'disregarded entities,' meaning profits and losses pass through to the owner's personal tax return (Form 1040). Multi-member LLCs are treated as partnerships, with profits and losses allocated to members and reported on their personal returns (via Form 1065 informational filing). This avoids the double taxation common with C-corporations. LLCs can elect to be taxed as an S-corporation or a C-corporation by filing specific forms with the IRS, which can offer tax advantages in certain situations, like potential savings on self-employment taxes with an S-corp election if structured correctly. At the state level, New Mexico LLCs are typically subject to Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) on their sales within the state, requiring registration with the NM Taxation and Revenue Department and regular filings. Other state taxes, like withholding taxes for employees, may also apply. Consulting a tax professional is recommended to optimize tax strategy.
How do I dissolve an LLC in New Mexico?
Dissolving an LLC in New Mexico involves a formal process to wind down the business's affairs and terminate its legal existence. First, you must cease all business operations except those necessary to wind down the company. Next, you'll need to file a Certificate of Dissolution with the New Mexico Secretary of State. This document formally notifies the state that your LLC is dissolving. Before filing, ensure all outstanding debts and liabilities of the LLC have been settled. This includes notifying creditors and making arrangements for payment. You may also need to file final tax returns with both the IRS and the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department. This includes final federal and state income tax returns, and any final Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) filings. It's important to settle all tax obligations. After settling debts and filing final taxes, you'll distribute any remaining assets among the LLC members according to the terms of your Operating Agreement. The process requires careful attention to detail to ensure all legal and financial obligations are met. Consulting with a legal or tax professional is advisable to ensure the dissolution is handled correctly and completely.
Lovie is not a government agency, law firm, or professional advisory organization. Lovie is a private business-formation service that prepares and submits filings to the appropriate state agencies on your behalf — we do not issue government documents, and state approval times are not controlled by Lovie. Information on this page is general and not legal, tax, or financial advice.