How to Start Your Own LLC in Wyoming

This guide walks you through each step of forming a Wyoming LLC, from naming your business to filing your Articles of Organization, establishing an operating agreement, and ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements.

1. Name Your Wyoming LLC

Choosing a business name is one of the most critical steps in launching your LLC. Your business name is your identity—it communicates your brand, your services, and the professionalism of your company. To select the right name, start by clarifying your business concept, then ask for feedback from trusted peers or mentors. Conduct an online search to see whether your preferred names already have an existing presence, and check if the corresponding domain name is available. Online name generators can offer inspiration, but they cannot replace strategic thinking and creativity.

Wyoming requires that your LLC name include "Limited Liability Company" or an abbreviation such as LLC or L.L.C. Additionally, your name cannot imply affiliation with government agencies or use restricted terms such as "bank," "insurance," or "university" without state approval. The name must also be distinguishable from all other registered business names in Wyoming.

After narrowing down options, check the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database to ensure your name is not trademarked, which avoids potential legal conflicts nationally.

If you want to reserve your LLC name before filing your Articles of Organization, you can submit a Name Reservation Form to the Wyoming Secretary of State along with a $60 fee. Name reservations are valid for 120 days. Note that Wyoming currently requires paper submission for name reservations; there is no online filing option.

Doing Business As (DBA) / Trade Names

A DBA or trade name allows you to operate your LLC under a different name. For example, if your LLC is "JJ's Waffles" but you want to expand into muffins as "JJ's Muffins," a DBA allows you to maintain multiple brands under the same LLC. In Wyoming, registering a trade name involves submitting an Application for Registration of Trade Name to the Secretary of State with a $100 fee. This allows you to open separate business bank accounts under the DBA name and legally conduct business with the new brand.

2. Select a Registered Agent

Wyoming law requires every LLC to designate a registered agent. A registered agent is responsible for receiving official correspondence, including legal notices, tax documents, and government communications. You can act as your own registered agent if you meet the requirements: you must be at least 18 years old, have a physical street address in Wyoming (P.O. Boxes are not allowed), and be available during normal business hours.

Many LLC owners prefer to hire a professional registered agent service. This provides privacy, ensures you don't miss important notices, and allows you to operate your business from anywhere without worrying about availability during office hours.

3. Determine Your Management Structure

Wyoming LLCs can be member-managed or manager-managed. In a member-managed LLC, all owners (members) actively participate in day-to-day operations. Manager-managed LLCs allow members to appoint managers—who may or may not be members—to oversee the company.

Most small businesses choose member-managed structures because they are simpler and more cost-effective. A manager-managed structure can benefit larger businesses or those with passive investors who want limited involvement. If your LLC's Articles of Organization do not specify management, it will default to member-managed.

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

The Articles of Organization officially establish your LLC as a legal entity. You can file online through the Wyoming Secretary of State's website or submit a paper form by mail. The Articles require:

• LLC name including "LLC" or "L.L.C."
• Registered agent details
• Principal office and mailing addresses
• Organizer's signature and contact information

You may specify whether the LLC is temporary or perpetual, and you can set a delayed start date if needed. Once submitted, online filings are generally approved immediately, while mail filings can take 10–15 business days. The filing fee is $100.

Secretary of State Contact Information

Business Division
Herschler Building East
122 West 25th Street, Suite 101
Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020
Phone: (307) 777-7311

5. Draft an Operating Agreement

Although Wyoming does not legally require an operating agreement, having one is strongly recommended. This document outlines how your LLC operates, establishes member responsibilities, and helps prevent internal disputes. Key elements include:

• LLC name, principal address, and duration
• Member ownership percentages and rights
• Management and voting procedures
• Allocation of profits and losses
• Procedures for adding/removing members
• Dispute resolution and amendments
• Record-keeping and communication policies

An attorney can help draft a custom operating agreement to ensure legal compliance and protect your LLC's interests.

6. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN, issued by the IRS, is required for multi-member LLCs or LLCs with employees. Single-member LLCs may also benefit from an EIN to separate business and personal finances. The application is straightforward and can be completed online, by fax, or by mail. The IRS designates a responsible party—a natural person controlling the entity's finances—who must be listed on the application.

7. Obtain Business Licenses and Permits

While Wyoming does not require a general business license, your specific business may need federal, state, or local permits. For example, businesses selling taxable goods require a sales tax license through the Wyoming Internet Filing System for Business. Other industries, like construction, food service, childcare, or healthcare, may require specialized permits.

Local zoning, building, fire, and signage permits may also be necessary. Failure to secure proper licenses can result in fines, penalties, or shutdowns. Consulting a business attorney or using a business compliance service can ensure all licensing requirements are met.

8. Determine Your Tax Status

By default, LLCs are pass-through entities for tax purposes. This means that profits and losses flow through to members' personal tax returns.

Single-Member LLCs

Taxed as sole proprietorships by default, with income reported on Schedule C. Members are responsible for self-employment taxes.

Multi-Member LLCs

Taxed as partnerships, filing an informational Form 1065 while members report their share on personal returns, paying self-employment taxes accordingly.

LLCs Can Elect Corporate Taxation

• C-Corporation: The LLC pays corporate tax on profits, and dividends distributed to members are taxed again at the personal level (double taxation). This can be beneficial if profits are retained in the business.
• S-Corporation: Pass-through taxation is maintained, but members must receive a reasonable salary subject to payroll taxes, while additional profits may avoid self-employment tax. This can reduce overall tax burden for profitable businesses.

Other Important Steps

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping personal and business finances separate is crucial for liability protection and accurate accounting.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Establishes business credit, helps manage cash flow, and reduces out-of-pocket expenses.

Obtain Business Insurance

Consider:

• General liability
• Professional liability
• Property insurance
• Workers' compensation
• Equipment breakdown
• Commercial auto
• Business owner's policy (BOP)

Maintain LLC Records

Safely store Articles of Organization, operating agreements, contracts, and other legal or financial documents.

Annual Reporting

Wyoming LLCs must file an annual report by the first day of their anniversary month. Fees start at $60 or 0.0002 per dollar of assets located in Wyoming, whichever is greater.

Wyoming LLC FAQs