To start, you must decide on a name for your business. The name must be original and unclaimed by another Washington-based company. The company search tool provided by the Washington Secretary of State allows you to determine whether a name is available. You must register your selected name with the state after making your decision.
The next step is to designate a registered agent for your business. This is the person or organization who will accept legal paperwork on your company’s behalf. The registered agent must be accessible to receive documents and have a physical address in Washington during business hours.
You can submit your Article of Organization once you’ve determined your name and registered agent. The Washington Secretary of State’s website offers online and postal filing options. For online filings, the filing price is $200, while paper filings are $180.
The name, address, and purpose of the business are all necessary pieces of information to submit when filing your Articles of Organization. The name and address of your registered agent must also be included.
Upon approval of your Articles of Organization, the state will issue you a UBI number. You must use this special identification number when conducting business in Washington. Your UBI number can be used to register for taxes, submit license and permit applications, and more.
Your company’s excellent standing with the state of Washington is attested to by an Elective Washington Certificate of Status. A Certificate of Status can be obtained for a charge from the Washington Secretary of State’s office. This document can be useful if you need to show lenders, investors, or other third parties your company’s legitimacy.
A Certificate of Status, also called a Certificate of Good Standing, is a record that attests to the fact that your business complies with all applicable laws and has paid all associated fees and taxes. Lenders, investors, or other stakeholders may request this document as evidence of your company’s legitimacy.
In conclusion, submitting an Article of Organization in the State of Washington is a simple procedure. Select a distinctive name for your business, designate a registered agent, and submit your Article of Organization to the state. You’ll get a UBI number once your business has been approved, which you can use for all of your commercial dealings in Washington. The Washington Secretary of State’s office can provide you with a Certificate of Status if you need to demonstrate the legitimacy of your business.