How much does it cost to start an LLC in North Carolina?

The Articles of Organization filing fee is $125. After that, the annual report is $200 a year.

When is the North Carolina LLC annual report due?

By April 15 each year, starting the year after your LLC forms.

Do I need a business license in North Carolina?

There's no general state license, but your city or county may have rules, and many trades need a state license.

Starting a business by state

How to start a business in North Carolina

Q: Where do I file a DBA in North Carolina?

File an assumed business name certificate with a county register of deeds. One certificate can cover every county where you do business.

By the Storyhand Studio team

Starting a business in North Carolina is straightforward. Most of it happens online with the Secretary of State and the Department of Revenue. Two NC-specific steps trip people up: the assumed business name certificate is filed with a county register of deeds, not the state, and every LLC owes a yearly report by April 15.

Fees and rules checked in October 2026. States change them, so confirm on the official site before you file.

1. Pick your business structure

Sole proprietor: no state filing to exist, but you're personally responsible for the business's debts.

LLC: file Articles of Organization with the North Carolina Secretary of State. The filing fee is $125, and you can pay extra for faster processing.

2. Check your name and file an assumed business name if needed

Search the Secretary of State's business registry to make sure your name is available. If you'll do business under a name other than your legal name or your LLC's exact name, North Carolina requires an assumed business name certificate, filed with a county register of deeds. One certificate can list every county where you do business.

3. Get your tax IDs

EIN: free from the IRS.
State tax registration: if you sell taxable goods or services, or you'll have employees, register with the North Carolina Department of Revenue.

4. Check local and trade licenses

North Carolina has no general statewide business license. Check with your city and county for zoning, home business and sign rules. Many trades are licensed by state boards, like general contractors, electricians, plumbing and HVAC contractors, cosmetologists and barbers.

5. File your annual report every year

Every North Carolina LLC files an annual report with the Secretary of State by April 15, starting the year after it forms. The fee is $200. Skipping it can lead the state to dissolve your LLC.

6. Open a business bank account

Bring your EIN and your filed Articles of Organization or assumed business name certificate.

Make it look like a real business

The paperwork makes you legal. It doesn't bring customers. Once you're registered in North Carolina, people still need to find you and trust you: a name and logo they remember, a website, a business email and a Google Business Profile. Then a plan for your first customers.