Virginia LLC 2024 Annual Costs and SCC Filing Guide James Fish, February 17, 2024February 17, 2024 Welcome to the comprehensive guide on Virginia LLC 2024 Annual Costs and SCC Filing. In this article, we will walk you through the essential information regarding the annual costs associated with running a Virginia LLC, along with a detailed filing guide provided by the State Corporation Commission (SCC). Whether you are a new business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur, this article will equip you with the knowledge to effectively manage your LLC’s financial obligations and ensure compliance with the SCC regulations. Table of Contents Toggle Initial Formation and Filing CostsAnnual Registration Fee OverviewFiling Deadlines and RemindersBusiness Name and DBA FeesRegistered Agent Options and CostsOperating Agreement and EIN AcquisitionPenalties for Late FilingSupport Services: Accountants and State Commission Contact Information Initial Formation and Filing Costs When starting a Virginia LLC, there are important initial formation and filing costs to consider. The Articles of Organization must be filed with the State Corporation Commission (SCC), and this incurs a filing fee. Additionally, a registered agent must be appointed, which may involve an annual fee. It is crucial to understand the legal and financial implications of your LLC, including tax obligations and potential legal liabilities. Maintaining accurate records and filing an annual report with the SCC is required to keep your LLC in good standing. Consider the privacy of your LLC’s information and whether using a post office box or physical address is more appropriate. Keep in mind that a bank account will be necessary for financial transactions. Lastly, remember to mark your LLC’s anniversary and be aware of any associated costs. Annual Registration Fee Overview In order to maintain your Virginia LLC, you must pay an annual registration fee to the State Corporation Commission (SCC). This fee is due on the anniversary of your LLC’s formation. The current fee for 2024 is $50. It is important to note that failure to pay this fee on time can result in penalties and potential dissolution of your LLC. To make the payment, you can use various methods such as online payment, mail, or in-person at the SCC office in Richmond, Virginia. Make sure to include your LLC’s name and SCC identification number on any correspondence or payment. Keeping up with your annual registration fee is crucial to ensure your LLC remains in good standing with the SCC and maintains its legal liability protections. Filing Deadlines and Reminders To ensure compliance and avoid penalties, it is crucial to stay on top of your Virginia LLC’s filing deadlines. The State Corporation Commission (SCC) requires annual reports to be filed by the last day of the month following your LLC’s formation anniversary. Failure to file on time could result in late fees and even dissolution of your LLC. To keep track of these deadlines, set up reminders via email or telephone. Utilize a calendar system to mark important dates. Additionally, consider appointing a registered agent who can assist with timely filings. Remember, the SCC’s website is a valuable resource for filing guides and forms. Be sure to review and understand the requirements for your specific LLC, including any additional filings related to trade names, articles of organization, or changes in registered agents. By staying organized and informed, you can navigate the filing process smoothly and focus on the growth and success of your Virginia LLC. Business Name and DBA Fees When starting a Virginia LLC, it’s important to consider the costs associated with your business name and any “doing business as” (DBA) names you may want to use. The State Corporation Commission (SCC) in Virginia requires a fee of $10 to reserve a business name, and an additional $10 fee to register a DBA name. These fees are necessary to ensure that your business name is unique and legally protected. Having a distinct business name and DBA can help establish your brand and protect your identity. It’s important to research existing business names to avoid trademark infringement and legal issues. To complete the SCC filing process, you’ll need to provide your business name and any DBAs you plan to use. This information will be included in your annual report, which is required by the SCC. Remember to update your business name and DBA registration annually and pay any associated fees to maintain legal compliance. Having a solid understanding of the fees and requirements for your business name and DBA will help you navigate the SCC filing process and ensure your business is properly registered in Virginia. Registered Agent Options and Costs Registered Agent Options Costs 1. Hire a Professional Registered Agent Approximately $100 – $300 per year 2. Appoint Yourself as the Registered Agent No additional costs 3. Use a Registered Agent Service Varies depending on the service provider, typically $50 – $200 per year Operating Agreement and EIN Acquisition Operating Agreement: An essential document for every Virginia LLC, the operating agreement outlines the ownership and management structure of the company. It helps avoid misunderstandings and disputes among members and protects their legal liability. Make sure to draft a comprehensive and clear agreement that addresses key issues such as profit distribution, decision-making authority, and member roles and responsibilities. EIN Acquisition: Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service is crucial for your Virginia LLC. This unique identifier is necessary for tax purposes, opening a bank account, hiring employees, and conducting business transactions. Apply for an EIN online or via mail, providing accurate information about your LLC, such as its trade name and physical address. Once obtained, keep your EIN safe and easily accessible for future reference. Penalties for Late Filing Filing your annual report on time is crucial for maintaining your Virginia LLC’s good standing. Failure to file by the deadline can result in costly penalties. The State Corporation Commission (SCC) imposes a late fee of $25 for each month your report is overdue, with a maximum penalty of $250. Additionally, your LLC may lose its trade name protection and could face dissolution if the report remains unfiled for an extended period. To avoid these consequences, it’s important to stay organized and keep track of filing deadlines. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can reach out to the SCC through email or by calling their telephone helpline. Support Services: Accountants and State Commission Contact Information Service Description Bookkeeping Recording financial transactions, maintaining general ledgers, and reconciling accounts. Tax Preparation Preparing and filing business tax returns, ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. Financial Analysis Evaluating financial data, generating reports, and providing insights for informed decision-making. Budgeting and Forecasting Assisting in creating budgets, projecting future financial performance, and identifying areas for improvement. James FishWas this article helpful?YesNo LLC Annual Fees