Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Oklahoma is a great step for young entrepreneurs looking to establish their small businesses with flexibility and protection. At Outhier & Caruthers, PLLC, in Enid, OK, we’ve had years of experience guiding small businesses just like yours through the LLC formation process.

We’ve designed this guide to give you an understanding of the various issues you’ll need to think about and how they can affect your business. If you’re ready to start a small business in Oklahoma, call our office today. We’ll make sure you have the flexibility and protection you need to thrive.

Naming Your LLC

The first step in forming an LLC in Oklahoma is to choose a name. Oklahoma requires your LLC name to be totally unique from all other business names registered with the state. You can check to see if the name you have in mind is available by going to the Oklahoma Secretary of State website and searching their database of business entities currently registered in the state. Once your unique name is chosen, you’ll need to designate the person in charge.

Your Registered Agent

In Oklahoma, every LLC needs a registered agent—that will likely be you. This role means you’re the primary contact for any legal matters pertaining to your business. Being your own registered agent is common for small businesses because it sends everything goes directly to you. You stay on top of the regulations and taxes yourself. If paperwork becomes too complex, however, our team at Outhier & Caruthers, PLLC, can easily assist you in this role.

Filing the Articles of Organization

To officially create your LLC in Oklahoma, you need to file the Articles of Organization with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. This document includes all the information about your business, such as the LLC name, principal address, registered agent details, and whether your LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed. You can file the Articles of Organization online or by mail.

Navigating Tax Obligations

Understanding and navigating your tax obligations for your LLC is arguably the most important part. In Oklahoma, LLCs are treated as pass-through entities by default, meaning the company itself does not pay income taxes.

Instead, profits and losses pass through to the member’s tax returns. This means that the money a business makes or loses goes directly onto the owner’s personal tax bills instead of the company paying taxes on it first. However, LLCs can also choose to be taxed as corporations.

It’s important to register for state taxes, like sales tax or employer taxes, if your business will involve employees or sales. The Oklahoma Tax Commission is a great resource for information on state tax requirements.

How Outhier & Caruthers, PLLC Can Help

At Outhier & Caruthers, PLLC, we understand the importance of getting every detail right. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of starting your business, from selecting an appropriate name to drafting an operating agreement.

We’re committed to making the formation of your LLC as smooth and straightforward as possible so you’re in the best spot to succeed. If you’re considering starting an LLC in Oklahoma, call us today at (580) 234-6600. We’ll answer your questions and get you on the right path.