How to Start Your Own LLC in Indiana

This guide walks you through naming your LLC, filing Articles of Organization, choosing a registered agent, obtaining licenses, securing an EIN, and understanding ongoing compliance. By the end, you'll know exactly how to form and manage your Indiana LLC with confidence.

1. Name Your Indiana LLC

Choosing the right name for your Indiana LLC is a foundational step in the formation process. Your business name should be unique, easy to remember, and clearly communicate what your company does. Because this name will represent your brand legally and publicly, it's important to take your time and choose wisely.

Before brainstorming names, define your business concept clearly. Understanding your services, products, and target audience makes it easier to select a name that fits your long-term goals. Many entrepreneurs also ask friends, family, or trusted colleagues for feedback to gain fresh perspectives. Conducting online searches is another essential step to see whether similar names already exist and whether the domain name is available.

Online business name generators can also help spark ideas, but they should be used as inspiration only. These tools don't always understand branding nuances or legal naming restrictions.

Once you have a shortlist, perform a business name search on the Indiana Secretary of State website. This ensures the name isn't already registered or confusingly similar to an existing Indiana business. You should also search beyond exact matches to avoid future trademark or branding conflicts.

Indiana LLC naming rules require that your business name include "Limited Liability Company" or an abbreviation such as LLC or L.L.C. The name cannot include language that implies your business is a government agency. It must also be distinguishable from all other registered business names in the state and cannot include restricted words like bank, insurance, or university without proper approval.

After state-level verification, it's strongly recommended that you search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database. This helps ensure the name isn't already trademarked at the federal level, protecting you from costly legal issues later.

If you're not ready to form your LLC immediately, Indiana allows you to reserve your business name. Name reservations are filed online through the Access Indiana business services website. After creating an account, you'll complete the application, apply your electronic signature, and submit payment.

The name reservation fee is $20, and once approved, the name is reserved for 120 days, giving you time to complete your LLC formation.

Doing Business As (DBA) in Indiana

Even after choosing an LLC name, you may want to operate under a different business name for branding or expansion purposes. This is where a Doing Business As (DBA)—known in Indiana as an assumed business name—comes into play.

For example, if your LLC is called JJ's Waffles, LLC and you decide to sell baked goods under JJ's Muffins, you can register JJ's Muffins as a DBA. One LLC can legally operate multiple DBAs, allowing flexibility without forming additional legal entities.

A DBA also allows you to open bank accounts, accept customer payments, and market your business using the assumed name. In Indiana, assumed business names are registered through the Access Indiana (INBiz) system.

DBA filing fees vary based on business type and filing method. For LLCs, corporations, LPs, and LLPs, the one-time filing fee is $20 online or $30 by mail or in person. Sole proprietors and nonprofits have separate fee structures, but all DBA filings in Indiana are one-time, not annual.

2. Select a Registered Agent

Indiana law requires every LLC to appoint a registered agent. The registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents, tax notices, and official state correspondence on behalf of your business. This ensures your LLC stays informed and compliant with state requirements.

A registered agent in Indiana can be an individual or a business entity, including an LLC member, as long as they meet state requirements. The agent must be at least 18 years old, have a physical street address in Indiana, and be available during normal business hours. If the agent is a business, it must be authorized to operate in Indiana.

While acting as your own registered agent can save money, many business owners prefer hiring a professional registered agent service. This provides privacy, reliability, and flexibility—especially if you travel frequently or don't want your personal address listed on public records.

3. Determine Your Management Structure

Indiana LLCs can be structured as member-managed or manager-managed, and unlike some states, Indiana requires you to specify this choice in your Articles of Organization.

In a member-managed LLC, all members participate in the daily management and decision-making of the business. This structure is common for small businesses where owners are actively involved in operations.

In a manager-managed LLC, management authority is given to one or more managers, who may or may not be members. This structure works well when some owners prefer to be passive investors. A member may serve as a manager, but only alongside at least one non-member manager.

Choosing the correct management structure is important because it affects authority, liability, and how your business is run day to day.

4. File Articles of Organization with the Indiana Secretary of State

To officially form your Indiana LLC, you must file Articles of Organization through the Indiana Secretary of State's INBiz website. After signing into your account, select "Start a New Business" and follow the guided steps.

The Articles of Organization require information such as your LLC name, principal office address, registered agent details, registered office address, and governing authority type. The system walks you through each section and allows you to review everything before submitting payment.

The filing fee is $95 online or $100 by mail. Online filings are typically approved within one business day, while mailed filings may take up to seven days, not including mailing time.

Indiana Secretary of State Contact Information

INBiz – Indiana Business Services Website
Business Services Division
302 W. Washington Street, Room E018
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Email: INBiz@sos.in.gov

Phone: 317-234-9768

5. Draft an Operating Agreement

An operating agreement outlines how your LLC is owned and managed. Although Indiana does not legally require an operating agreement, having one is highly recommended—even for single-member LLCs.

This document clarifies ownership percentages, voting rights, management authority, profit and loss distribution, and procedures for resolving disputes. It also helps reinforce limited liability protection and is often required by banks when opening a business account.

While templates are available online, having an attorney draft or review your operating agreement ensures it aligns with Indiana law and your specific business needs.

6. Get Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is issued by the IRS and is used for federal tax reporting. An EIN is required if your LLC has more than one member, hires employees, or opens a business bank account.

You can apply for an EIN for free on the IRS website. During the application, you must identify a responsible party, who is the individual that controls and manages the LLC's funds and operations.

7. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

Indiana does not issue a single, statewide general business license. However, depending on your business activity, you may need licenses or permits from federal, state, or local agencies.

At the federal level, certain industries require permits from agencies such as OSHA. At the state level, professional and occupational licenses are managed through Indiana's Professional Licensing Agency. Businesses selling taxable goods or services must also register for a sales tax permit.

Local cities and counties may impose zoning, signage, or operational permits, so it's important to check local requirements where your business operates.

Operating without proper licenses can result in fines, penalties, or shutdowns, making this step critical for compliance.

8. Determine Your Tax Status

By default, Indiana LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities, meaning the LLC itself does not pay federal income tax. Instead, profits and losses pass through to the owners' personal tax returns.

Single-member LLCs are taxed like sole proprietorships, while multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships by default. LLCs may also elect C-corporation or S-corporation tax status if it benefits their financial situation.

Indiana's individual income tax rate is 3.05%, and additional taxes may apply depending on business activities, employees, and sales.

Ongoing Requirements for Indiana LLCs

After forming your LLC, you'll need to keep business and personal finances separate, open a business bank account, and maintain proper records. Business insurance is also recommended to protect against liability and operational risks.

Indiana requires LLCs to file a Business Entity Report every two years. This report is due by the end of your LLC's anniversary month. The fee is $22.44 online or $30 by mail. Failure to file can result in penalties or administrative dissolution.

Indiana LLC FAQs