Changing Sole Proprietor to LLC in Washington State: A Step-by-Step Guide

How do I change my sole proprietor to an LLC in WA?
Change your business structure Create your business structure with the Washington Secretary of State. Submit a new Business License Application to apply for a new Business License. Reapply for any applicable state, and/or city endorsements (for example, Nursery endorsements in Lakewood).
Read more on dor.wa.gov

There are a few actions you’ll need to follow in Washington State if you want to convert your sole proprietorship to an LLC. A number of forms must be filled out, the required licenses must be acquired, and an operating agreement must be made. We’ll walk you through each stage of the procedure in this article.

Choose a Name for Your LLC in Step 1

You must select a name for your company before you can begin the process of incorporating an LLC. The name needs to stand out from other companies in the state and be distinctive. On the website of the Washington Secretary of State, you can determine whether your preferred name is available. You can reserve a name for up to 180 days after confirming that it is available by submitting a Name Reservation Request form and paying a $30 charge.

Step 2: Submit Articles of Incorporation Articles of Organization must then be submitted to the Washington Secretary of State. You can submit this form electronically or by mail. Basic information about your LLC must be provided, including the registered agent’s name, address, and phone number. Articles of Organization must be filed for a charge of $200.

Obtain a UBI number in step three. You must get a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number from the Washington State Department of Revenue after your LLC has been registered with the state. This number serves as your company’s tax identification number. Online or postal applications are accepted for UBI numbers. A UBI number can be obtained for free.

Create an operating agreement in step four. It’s a good idea to draft an operating agreement for your LLC even though it’s not legally obligatory. The ownership structure of the company, the allocation of profits and losses, and the duties of each member are all described in this agreement. To prevent future disagreements, it’s crucial to have an operational agreement in place. An operating agreement can be drafted by you on your own or with the assistance of an attorney.

Which One Is Better: LLC or S Corp?

Many entrepreneurs of small companies are undecided about whether to set up an LLC or a S Corporation. Your specific business demands and priorities will determine the response. S Corporations may give tax benefits, whereas LLCs are often cheaper to form, manage, and operate. To choose the right entity for your company, it’s crucial to speak with an accountant or attorney.

What Belongs in LLC Operating Agreements?

The following details should be in an LLC operating agreement: The following information is required of all LLCs:

– The name of the LLC

– The purpose of the LLC

– The name and contact information of each member

– The ownership structure of the LLC

– The distribution of profits and losses

– The responsibilities of each member

– The procedure for adding or removing members

– The procedure for dissolving the LLC

Instructions for Filling Out an Operating Agreement Follow these procedures to fill out an operating agreement:

1. List the LLC’s members and their percentages of ownership. 3. Describe the LLC’s financial structure, including how profits and losses will be distributed. 4. Establish rules for decision-making and conflict resolution.

2. Specify the roles and obligations of each member. 5. Describe how members can be added or removed. 6. Specify how the LLC will be dissolved.

In conclusion, there are a number of processes involved in converting your sole proprietorship in Washington State to an LLC. These include picking a name, submitting articles of organization, requesting a UBI number, and drafting an operating agreement. When determining whether to create an LLC or a S Corporation, it’s crucial to give careful consideration to your company’s objectives and priorities. To prevent controversies, if you decide to incorporate an LLC, make sure to draft an operating agreement.

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