State guide
Form an LLC in Tennessee
People who actually live or run a business in Tennessee.
Filing fee
From $300 ($50 per member, minimum $300)
Processing time
3–5 business days (online filing)
Annual Report
From $300/year (based on number of members, minimum $300)
State tax
No tax on wages.
⚠ Filing and annual report fees scale with the number of members, with a $300 minimum — much higher than many states for multi-member LLCs.
Steps to form an LLC in Tennessee
- 1
Choose an LLC name and check it is available
The name must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" and must not match a business already registered in Tennessee. Search the state's business registry (free) before you file.
- 2
Appoint a Registered Agent in Tennessee
This is mandatory — a registered agent is a person or company with a physical address in Tennessee that receives legal papers on your behalf. If you don't have an address in the state, you will need to hire a registered agent service.
- 3
File the Articles of Organization
Filing fee From $300 ($50 per member, minimum $300); processing time about 3–5 business days (online filing). You can file online through the Secretary of State's portal or through the registered agent you hire.
- 4
Draft an Operating Agreement
Tennessee doesn't require you to file this document with the state, but almost every bank and business partner asks for it to open accounts and confirm ownership and the members' responsibilities.
- 5
Get your federal tax ID (EIN)
Apply directly with the IRS — it is free. Applicants without an SSN/ITIN can still get an EIN by fax or mail, and you need it to open a US bank account and payment platforms.
- 6
Track the Annual Report deadline
Fee: From $300/year (based on number of members, minimum $300). Due: By the first day of the 4th month after your fiscal year ends. Filing late can get your LLC administratively dissolved by the state even if you're still doing business.
FAQ: LLCs in Tennessee
Is Tennessee a good fit for a non-US online seller?+
People who actually live or run a business in Tennessee.
Is USBizViet an LLC formation provider?+
No. USBizViet is an independent content site and an affiliate partner of several LLC formation providers. We may earn a commission when you sign up through links on the site, but the price you pay stays the same.
What if I miss the annual report deadline?+
The state can administratively dissolve your LLC even if the business is still operating — so track the deadline closely or sign up for an email reminder.