How to Form an LLC in New Jersey Yourself (2026 Costs and Steps)

Quick answer

The filing fee is $100. File your Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services (DORES) at file online with DORES.

Step 1: Check that your LLC name is available

Search the agency's business name records before filing to ensure your desired name is available.

Step 2: Choose a registered agent

The registered agent can be the business owner or someone else, but must have a New Jersey address. The LLC must continuously maintain an office in New Jersey and an agent for service of process (N.J.S.A. 42:2C-14).

Step 3: File your Certificate of Formation

File your Certificate of Formation with the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services (DORES) online at file online with DORES. The filing fee is $100.

Step 4: Create an operating agreement

Create an operating agreement that covers ownership percentages, member roles and responsibilities, voting procedures, and what happens if a member leaves the LLC.

Step 5: Get your EIN from the IRS

Get your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for free at https://www.irs.gov/ein.

Step 6: Keep your LLC in good standing

File an Annual Report with DORES every year. The fee is $75. It is due on the last day of the month in which the business was formed, every year. This filing confirms your registered agent and address. Failure to file can result in revocation. The filing obligation applies even if no State notice is received.

No minimum or franchise tax applies to LLCs as such. However, an LLC classified as a partnership that has New Jersey-source income or losses and MORE THAN TWO owners owes a partnership filing fee of $150 per owner (reported on Form NJ-1065) plus a prepayment for the next year; single- and two-member LLCs are not subject to it.