Starting a business in Washington? Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is one of the smartest and most flexible ways to protect yourself and grow your venture. Whether you’re a solo bookkeeper, chef, or creative entrepreneur, knowing the requirements and eligibility before filing your LLC will save you time, money, and stress.
Below, I’ll walk you through the most common questions about forming a Washington LLC — including who can file, what you’ll need, and how the process really works.
Before we dive in — this post focuses on the requirements for a Washington LLC: who can form one, what information you’ll need, and the rules around eligibility. It’s just one part of the full business formation journey. Filing, EINs, business licenses, and next steps are covered in separate posts.
🏠 1. Do I need to live in Washington to form an LLC here?
No — you don’t need to live in Washington to start an LLC in the state.
What you do need is a Registered Agent with a physical Washington address (not a P.O. Box). That person or company must be available during business hours to receive legal notices. You can be your own agent if you live here, or you can appoint a professional registered agent service.
👤 2. Can one person be the only owner (member) of an LLC in WA?
Yes! Washington allows single-member LLCs, meaning you can be the sole owner and still enjoy full liability protection. Your personal assets (like your car or savings) are typically protected if something happens to the business.
You can choose how your LLC is taxed — usually as a disregarded entity (reported on your personal return) or, if you prefer, as an S-Corp or C-Corp down the line.
🏢 3. What’s the difference between an LLC and a corporation in Washington?
Both offer limited liability, but they operate differently:
| Feature | LLC | Corporation |
| Structure | Simple and flexible | Formal (board, officers, shareholders) |
| Taxation | Pass-through or corporate election | Separate corporate tax return |
| Maintenance | Annual Report only | Annual meetings, minutes, and filings |
| Best for | Small to mid-sized businesses | Larger or investor-funded companies |
Most small businesses find that an LLC strikes the right balance between protection and simplicity.
💼 4. What types of businesses can form an LLC in WA?
Almost any business type can form an LLC — from service-based professionals to online sellers and consultants.
Just note that some licensed professions (like doctors, accountants, or architects) may have extra licensing or entity structure requirements. If that applies to you, check with your state licensing board or the WA Department of Licensing before you file.
🪪 5. Do I need a business license before I form the LLC?
Usually, you’ll form the LLC first — then apply for your Washington Business License through the Department of Revenue’s Business Licensing Service (BLS).
When your LLC is approved by the Secretary of State, you’ll receive a Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number. You’ll use that UBI when you apply for your business license, add endorsements (like city licenses), and register for state taxes if applicable.
✅ Quick Recap: Washington LLC Setup Steps
| Step | Requirement | Where to File |
| 1 | Choose your LLC name | WA Secretary of State |
| 2 | Appoint a Registered Agent | Must have WA address |
| 3 | File Certificate of Formation | Secretary of State (online or by mail) |
| 4 | Receive your UBI number | Automatically issued |
| 5 | Apply for Business License | WA Dept. of Revenue (BLS) |
| 6 | File Annual Report | Each year with Secretary of State |
Setting up your LLC properly creates a strong foundation for your business. It’s the first real step toward making money flow with ease and clarity — and protecting your hard work.
If you’d like help filing your Washington LLC, obtaining your UBI, EIN, or business license, I can walk you through the process easily. I also provide Registered Agent services to keep your business compliant and stress-free.
📩 Let’s get your Washington business officially started!
Email me at more2heather@gmail.com or visit my Money Services page to learn more about:
- LLC setup
- Registered Agent services
- QuickBooks Online bookkeeping
- Ongoing business support
Because building a business should feel empowering — not overwhelming.
more2heather@gmail.com | (206) 227-6128