How to Form an LLC in New Hampshire (2026)
Everything you need to start a New Hampshire LLC — from choosing a name to staying compliant after formation.
Form in your home state if you operate locally
Unless you have investors or specific legal needs, forming your LLC in New Hampshire (where you do business) is simpler and cheaper than Delaware or Wyoming — you avoid registering as a foreign LLC in two states.Step-by-Step: Forming a New Hampshire LLC
Choose a name for your LLC
Your LLC name must be unique in New Hampshire and must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." Search the New Hampshire Secretary of State's business name database before filing to confirm availability. You can typically reserve a name for 30–120 days for a small fee.
Appoint a registered agent
Every New Hampshire LLC must have a registered agent — a person or company with a physical New Hampshire address available during business hours to receive legal notices and state correspondence. You can serve as your own registered agent, or hire a registered agent service ($50–$150/year) for privacy and reliability.
File your Certificate of Formation
Submit your Certificate of Formation to the New Hampshire Secretary of State along with the $100 filing fee. Standard processing takes approximately 5 business days. Expedited processing is available: 1.
Create an Operating Agreement
An Operating Agreement governs how your LLC is managed, how profits are split, and what happens if a member leaves. New Hampshire may not require one, but having one is strongly recommended — it protects your limited liability status and prevents disputes.
Get an EIN from the IRS
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number (EIN) at irs.gov/ein. You'll need it to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. The application takes about 10 minutes and your EIN is issued immediately online.
Open a business bank account
Keep business finances strictly separate from personal accounts. Commingling funds is one of the most common reasons courts "pierce the corporate veil" and hold LLC members personally liable. Bring your EIN, Articles of Organization, and Operating Agreement to the bank.
Get business licenses and permits
Depending on your industry and location, you may need federal, state, or local business licenses. Check with your city and county clerk's office and the New Hampshire state licensing portal for requirements specific to your business type.
Stay compliant after formation
File your annual report and pay the $100 annual fee any state and local tax filings.
New Hampshire has no income tax but does tax interest and dividends.
Form Your New Hampshire LLC Today
Skip the paperwork. LegalZoom files your New Hampshire LLC for $100 + their service fee — includes registered agent options, operating agreement, and fast filing in most states.
EIN is free and takes 10 minutes
Apply at irs.gov/ein — no third-party service required. You'll receive your EIN instantly and need it to open a business bank account and file taxes.New Hampshire LLC — Cost Summary
| Filing fee | $100 |
| Document name | Certificate of Formation |
| Annual report fee | $100 |
| Publication cost | Not required |
| Franchise tax | None |
| Standard processing | 5 business days |
| Expedited processing | 1 |
| Est. year-1 total | $100+ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in New Hampshire?
How long does it take to form an LLC in New Hampshire?
Do I need a registered agent for my New Hampshire LLC?
What is the annual fee for an LLC in New Hampshire?
Can I be my own registered agent in New Hampshire?
What taxes does a New Hampshire LLC pay?
Registered agent — don't skip this
Your registered agent's address is publicly listed in the state business registry. Using a commercial service keeps your home address off public records and ensures no lawsuit notices are missed when you're away.Form Your New Hampshire LLC — Done Right
Firstbase files your Articles of Organization, sets up your registered agent, and keeps you on top of annual reports — all from one dashboard. Flat fee includes the $100 state filing cost.