To form an LLC in North Carolina you file Articles of Organization (sometimes called a Certificate of Formation) with the state and pay a one-time filing fee of $125. North Carolina is around the middle for LLC filing fees (number 33 of 51). You also need a registered agent with a North Carolina address, and most owners get an EIN from the IRS so they can open a bank account and pay taxes.
North Carolina LLC costs at a glance
| Item | Cost | When |
|---|---|---|
| North Carolina LLC filing fee | $125 | One time, paid to the state |
| ZIS Consultants service fee | $149 | One time |
| Registered agent (optional, if you don’t have a North Carolina address) | $50 first year | Renewal price depends on the state |
| EIN from the IRS (optional) | $20 | One time |
| Operating agreement (optional) | $49 | One time |
| North Carolina annual or periodic report | $200 | Annual, by April 15 |
North Carolina requires a report: annual, fee $200, due by April 15.
Faster processing in North Carolina
North Carolina offers paid expedited filing on top of the normal fee:
- 24-hour: +$100
- Same day: +$200
Tell us in your order if you need it and we’ll add it at the state’s price.
How to form your North Carolina LLC with ZIS Consultants
- Pick your company name and type. LLC, S Corp or C Corp. We check the name is available in North Carolina.
- Fill in the online order form. About 10 minutes: owners, address, and the add-ons you want. Nothing is preselected.
- We file with North Carolina. We submit your formation documents and pay the $125 state fee on your behalf.
- Get your documents. Approved Articles, EIN letter and operating agreement (if ordered) are emailed to you.
Start my North Carolina LLC — $274
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in North Carolina?
The North Carolina state filing fee is $125. With ZIS Consultants the total is $274 (our $149 service fee plus the state fee). A registered agent ($50 first year), EIN ($20) and operating agreement ($49) are optional add-ons.
Does North Carolina require an annual report for LLCs?
Yes. North Carolina requires a report (annual). The fee is $200 and it is due by April 15.
Do I need to live in North Carolina to form an LLC there?
No. Anyone can form an LLC in North Carolina, including people living in other states or outside the US. You do need a registered agent with a physical address in North Carolina, which we can provide for $50 for the first year.
How much does a North Carolina corporation cost?
The North Carolina filing fee for a corporation (S Corp or C Corp) is $125. Our service fee is the same $149 for every company type.
Can I get an EIN for my North Carolina LLC?
Yes. Add the EIN option ($20) to your order and we apply to the IRS for you once the state approves your LLC.
Fees last checked Oct 15, 2026. States change fees from time to time, so we confirm the exact amount before filing.