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Starting an LLC in Rhode Island is a smart way to protect your personal assets and run your business with flexibility. LLCs combine liability protection with pass-through taxation and simple, light-touch compliance.
With FormPros, you can form your Rhode Island LLC quickly and confidently—without the stress of confusing paperwork.
Steps to Form a Rhode Island LLC
1) Choose a Business Name
- Must include “LLC” or “L.L.C.” and be unique in Rhode Island.
- Check availability in the Rhode Island Department of State Business Name Database.
2) Appoint a Registered Agent
- Required for all Rhode Island LLCs.
- The agent must have a physical Rhode Island street address and be available during business hours.
3) File Articles of Organization
- File online or by mail with the Rhode Island Department of State (state fee: $150).
- Includes basics like LLC name, principal office, registered agent, and whether you’re member- or manager-managed.
4) Create an Operating Agreement
- Not required by law but strongly recommended.
- Defines ownership, roles, voting rules, profit splits, and buy-sell provisions.
5) Get an EIN
- Obtain a free Employer Identification Number from the IRS.
- Needed for taxes, hiring employees, and opening a business bank account.
6) File Initial & Annual Reports
- File an Initial Report within 30 days of formation.
- File the Annual Report by November 1st each year (state fee: $50) to keep the LLC in good standing.
Rhode Island LLC Costs & Ongoing Obligations
| Expense | Amount | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $150 | One-time | Required to officially form your LLC |
| Annual Report | $50 | Yearly (due Nov 1st) | Late filings incur penalties |
| Minimum Annual Business Tax | $400 | Yearly | Rhode Island’s minimum tax applies even with no profit |
| Registered Agent Service | $100–$300 | Yearly | Optional if you aren’t acting as your own agent |
| Local Licenses/Permits | Varies | Ongoing | Depends on city/county and industry |
Why Choose FormPros?
FormPros makes Rhode Island LLC formation simple and stress-free. We handle the paperwork, guide you through compliance, and form your LLC correctly the first time.
✅ Fast online filing
✅ Expert support
✅ Affordable pricing
✅ Ongoing compliance help
Start your Rhode Island LLC today with FormPros and focus on building your business—not dealing with state forms.
Form an LLC in Rhode Island FAQs
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How much does forming an LLC in Rhode Island cost?
The filing fee for the Articles of Organization is $150. There is an annual report filing fee of $50 due by November 1st each year.
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What is a series LLC in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island does not currently allow the formation of Series LLCs. A Series LLC is a unique type of LLC that allows separate divisions or "series" within the same entity, each with its own assets and liabilities.
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What is the difference between an LLC and a corporation in Rhode Island?
- LLC: Offers flexible management, pass-through taxation, and limited liability protection.
- Corporation: Has a more formal structure with required officers and directors, potential for double taxation (unless an S Corp election is made), and easier access to raising capital through stock issuance.
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What is the difference between a C Corp and an S Corp in Rhode Island?
- C Corp: Subject to double taxation (corporate and shareholder levels), no restrictions on ownership.
- S Corp: Allows pass-through taxation, but is limited to 100 shareholders and must meet specific IRS requirements.
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Can an LLC be a not-for-profit in Rhode Island?
No, an LLC cannot be a not-for-profit entity in Rhode Island. Nonprofits must be formed as a nonprofit corporation.
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How long does it typically take to form an LLC in Rhode Island?
Processing time for the Articles of Organization is typically 5-7 business days if filed online. It may take longer if filed by mail.
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Can a Rhode Island LLC Operating Agreement be modified?
Yes, an LLC Operating Agreement can be amended at any time, as long as the changes are approved by the members and documented properly.
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How do I look up an LLC in Rhode Island?
You can search for an LLC using the Business Entity Search tool on the Rhode Island Department of State’s website.
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Can I register my LLC in Rhode Island if I don’t live there?
Yes, you can register an LLC in Rhode Island even if you don’t reside in the state, but you must designate a registered agent with a physical address in Rhode Island.
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Can a foreigner own a Rhode Island LLC?
Yes, foreigners can own and manage a Rhode Island LLC without residency or citizenship requirements.
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Can an LLC own property in Rhode Island?
Yes, a Rhode Island LLC can own real estate and other property in its name.
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Can one person own an LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, Rhode Island allows single-member LLCs, which are owned and managed by one individual.
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Is a Rhode Island LLC required to have officers?
No, an LLC in Rhode Island is not required to have officers, but it must specify whether it is member-managed or manager-managed.
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What is the process for naming an LLC in Rhode Island?
- Ensure the name is unique and includes “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.”
- Check name availability through the Rhode Island Business Entity Search tool.
- Reserve the name if desired (optional).
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Can I convert an existing business into an LLC in Rhode Island?
Yes, an existing business can convert into an LLC by filing the appropriate conversion documents with the Rhode Island Department of State.
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How do I renew an LLC in Rhode Island?
File an annual report by November 1st each year and pay the $50 renewal fee to the Rhode Island Department of State.