The first step to starting a business in Arizona is getting the articles of organization filed by Arizona LLC owners. This is the first step to getting legal recognition of a limited liability company.
It doesn’t matter if you’re starting a business in Phoenix, a consulting firm in Tucson, or running an online business in Scottsdale—you need to know the right way to prepare and file your Arizona articles of organization to be able to launch your business without a hitch. This guide covers the information needed and common filing mistakes to avoid.
What Are the Articles of Organization in Arizona?
The articles of organization in Arizona are a formation document that legally establishes your LLC with the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC). All LLCs need to file it to legally exist.
The articles of organization establish company basics like the structure, management, and registered address. After your LLC is approved by the ACC, the LLC will be a distinct legal entity and apart from the owners. This will provide personal liability and tax advantages.
Articles of Organization vs. Articles of Incorporation
These two documents are often confused, yet they are for different business structures.
| Feature | Articles of Organization | Articles of Incorporation |
|---|---|---|
| Business Type | Limited Liability Company (LLC) | Corporation (C-Corp or S-Corp) |
| Ownership | Members | Shareholders |
| Management Flexibility | High (member or manager-managed) | Structured (board of directors required) |
| Formality Requirements | Minimal | Extensive (bylaws, annual meetings) |
| Tax Treatment | Pass-through (default) | Double taxation or pass-through |
In Arizona, the articles of organization apply only to LLCs, which have more operational flexibility and less compliance burden than corporations.
Key Information Required in the Arizona Articles of Organization
When completing your Arizona articles of organization, there is certain information that you will need, which includes the following:
- Name of the LLC: Your name must contain “Limited Liability Company,” “L.L.C.,” or “LLC” disclaimers and must be distinguishable from other business names that are registered in the state.
- Known Place of Business: A physical business address is required in Arizona. (P.O. boxes are not accepted.)
- Statutory Agent’s Details: The name and address in Arizona (Street) of the individual or organization that will receive legal documents.
- Management Structure: You must explain if the LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed.
- Effective Date: State when you would like the LLC to start (immediate or only within the next 90 days)
- Organizer Information: The name and address of the person who is filing the document
- Signatures: The organizer must sign the articles
There is no need to explain the business purpose of the LLC beyond “any lawful purpose,” and there are no requirements surrounding the details of the finances. Also, Arizona does not require you to list the members.
How to File Articles of Organization in Arizona
There are two easy and practical methods of filing your articles of organization in Arizona: You can either do it online or you can file them by regular mail.
1. Filing Online with the Arizona Corporation Commission
The Arizona Corporation Commission’s eCorp system is the fastest option.
- Access the eCorp Portal: Head to azcc.gov and find the eCorp filing system.
- Create an Account: Sign up for a no-cost eCorp account.
- Select LLC Formation: For filing options, pick “Domestic LLC”.
- Complete the Online Form: Fill out the required information.
- Pay the Filing Fee: You must pay with a credit card, debit card, or electronically via a check.
- Submit for Review: Your information is validated in the system.
- Receive Approval: You receive approvals to most online filings in 1 to 3 business days.
2. Filing by Mail
To file by mail:
- Download the Form: Get the ACC website version of the official Articles of Organization form.
- Complete the Document: Achieve an accurate completion of all required fields.
- Include Payment: Add a check or money order made out to “Arizona Corporation Commission”.
- Mail Your Filing: Arizona Corporation Commission Corporations Division 1300 W. Washington Street Phoenix, AZ 85007
- Wait for Processing: You must wait 2 to 4 weeks for mail filings to be processed.
Arizona LLC Formation Fees and Processing Times
This helps you to properly estimate your plan:
| Filing Method | Standard Fee | Expedited Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (eCorp) | $50 | $35 additional | 1 to 3 business days (standard) / Same day (expedited) |
| $50 | Not available | 2 to 4 weeks |
Compared to a lot of other states, Arizona has fairly reasonable filing fees. For $50, Arizona is one of the cheapest states when it comes to filing the articles of organization.
After You File: Post-Filing Requirements for Arizona LLCs
After filing articles of organization in Arizona, here are the next steps you must take:
- Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number). To get a free EIN, visit the IRS website. You need it to hire employees, open a business bank account, and file business taxes.
- Draft an Operating Agreement. Operating agreements are optional in Arizona, but they provide a good structure to your LLC, stating the percentage of ownership, management duties, and operational processes.
- Open a Business Bank Account. Open a Business Bank Account to help keep your LLC’s liability protection intact.
- Register for State Taxes. You must register for the transaction privilege tax (Arizona’s sales tax) and other state taxes.
- Get the Required Business Licenses. Business licenses can vary by state and even by the county, so make sure to check state and local regulations.
Since 2017, Arizona has removed the LLC publication requirement, so you don’t need to publish a notice of formation in a newspaper anymore.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Articles of Organization in Arizona
Make sure to avoid these issues to prevent delays or even rejection:
- Missing Business Name Availability Checks: Always check the ACC’s business name database before filing
- Incorrect Statutory Agent Information: Make sure your agent is willing to serve, and then provide their correct Arizona street address
- Business Address is a P.O. Box: Arizona requires a street address; P.O. Box is not acceptable
- Incomplete Forms: Missing information or unsigned documents will result in your filing a rejected
- Mismatched Filing Fee: Make sure your payment is in alignment with the most updated fee schedule
- Not Understanding the Management Structure: Make sure you clearly understand member-managed and manager-managed
Arizona LLC Publication Requirement Explained
Arizona repealed its publication requirement in 2017. Before 2017, new LLCs would need to publish a notice of formation in a local newspaper. Now, upon filing your articles of organization in Arizona and receiving approval, you have completed the primary requirement of your LLC formation.
How to Amend Your Articles of Organization in Arizona
Business needs might require changes to your Articles of Organization. In this case, you will send in amendments to your Articles of Organization. You will:
- File Articles of Amendment through eCorp or by mail.
- Clearly state what information you are changing.
- Pay the $25 amendment fee.
- Receive approval (typically 1-3 business days online).
Where to Find Your Filed Arizona Articles of Organization (Online Lookup)
The Arizona Corporation Commission’s (ACC) online database allows you to access your filed Articles of Organization in Arizona. Simply go to the ACC website and use the eCorp Search tool. Type in your LLC name or file number, and your documents will pop up for you to view and download.
Do You Need Professional Help? We Can File Your Arizona LLC for You
Some entrepreneurs take the time to file their Articles of Organization, while others prefer to hire professionals. Professional LLC formation services include expert document preparation, name verification, registered agent services, expedited filing, and ongoing compliance support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to get an Arizona LLC approved?
Business days and Arizona eCorp services use an order of 1-3 business days for regular filing and approval. They use same-day returns for expedited services. Mail filings take approximately 2-4 weeks.
Can I change my Articles of Organization later?
If necessary, make changes to the Articles of Organization in Arizona by completing the Articles of Amendment with the ACC and paying the $25 fee.
What’s the difference between member-managed and manager-managed?
In a member-managed LLC, the owners themselves run the company, while in a manager-managed LLC, strategically chosen individuals run the day-to-day, and members take a passive role. For ease, most small LLCs stick with member-managed.
Conclusion: Start Your Arizona LLC the Right Way
Filing your articles of organization correctly in Arizona is the starting point for a successful business launch. This document will create your legal entity, turn on your liability protection, and register your company with the state. Whether you are filing it through the eCorp system yourself or using one of many professional services, the most important thing is to do it. Arizona is one of the best states to start up a business due to its friendly business environment, an easy filing process, and fees that are well within reason. Ready to start your Arizona LLC? Get ready with your information, check the business name availability, and file your articles of organization with Arizona today.
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Swostika Silwal
