Form an LLC in Tennessee With Ease, for Free

GovDocFiling has reviewed numerous service providers and recommends Tailor Brands for free LLC formation. Its 500k successful company registrations are a testament to that.

Use its free service to form an LLC in Tennessee for free.

Start Your LLC Today

$0 + State Filing Fee

Free LLC formation, including review of paperwork and filing your Tennessee articles of organization.

Free business coaching for new entrepreneurs and a free trial of bookkeeping and invoicing services.

Numerous business services are also available as part of its paid plans and separately as well.

What You Should Know Before Starting an LLC in Tennessee

Before you start an LLC in Tennessee, you need to learn the key eligibility rules and ongoing requirements for a limited liability company in Tennessee.

Here are some of the costs and considerations you should know about.

  • If you form your business in another state but plan to operate here, you must register as a foreign LLC in Tennessee and pay the $300 to get the Certificate of Authority.
  • You will need to pay a $300 filing fee to file your articles of organization when you create a domestic limited liability company in Tennessee with the Secretary of State.
  • All LLCs in Tennessee pay a $300 minimum annual report fee for up to six members. This increases by $50 for each member over six, up to a maximum of $3,000.
  • If you want to reserve your chosen business name with the state for up to 120 days, you can do so by submitting an application with the Secretary of State for just $20.

Although Tennessee offers cost-effective formation and maintenance, you can save time and money by starting a domestic LLC rather than registering a foreign limited liability company in Tennessee.

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1. Find a Unique Business Idea

Start by exploring your skills and interests to spot gaps in the market. Talk to potential customers to learn what problems they face and what solutions they want. Use what you learn to shape an idea that feels both fresh and practical.

Refine your business idea until it feels both fresh and valuable. Test it with a small group and use their feedback to make improvements. Stay open to change as you learn more and polish your concept till you find something that works for you.

Find a Unique Business Idea
Create a Solid Business Plan

2. Create a Solid Business Plan

Write a clear outline for your LLC in Tennessee that covers your goals, products, and target customers. Include basic financial estimates for startup costs, sales, and expenses. Refer back to this plan whenever you make big decisions to stay on track.

Use it as a guide for your LLC in Tennessee. You should update it when you gain new insights or see changing SaaS trends. Share it with mentors or partners to get honest feedback. Keep it focused and easy to adjust so it stays relevant.

3. Choose a Unique Business Name

Pick a name that reflects your brand’s personality and ends with “LLC” or its variations to comply with state rules for an LLC in Tennessee. Make sure it’s easy to spell, say, and remember. Let the name capture what makes your business special.

Check the Tennessee business registry to confirm it’s available. Avoid names that resemble existing trademarks or official agencies. Think about how it will look on your website, cards, and social media before you register your business name.

Choose a Unique Business Name
Reserve Your Business Name

4. Reserve Your Business Name

File a name reservation request with the Tennessee Secretary of State to hold your chosen business name for 120 days. Pay the fee and use the time to prepare your formation paperwork. This gives you breathing room to finalize other details.

Mark the reservation’s expiration date on your calendar so you can file your articles before it lapses. This step protects your brand while you get other details in place for your LLC in Tennessee. Plan your next moves to meet the deadline.

5. Choose a Registered Agent

Select someone with a physical address in Tennessee who can accept legal and official mail for your LLC. You can act as your own registered agent or hire a professional service for convenience. Make sure they understand their role.

Confirm the agent is available during regular business hours at the registered street address and update the state if you change agents. This ensures you always receive crucial notices without delay. Keep your registered agent information current.

Choose a Registered Agent
File Oklahoma Articles of Organization

6. Create an LLC Operating Agreement

Draft an agreement that spells out member roles, voting rules, and how you’ll share profits and handle disputes. Tailor it to your specific situation rather than using a one-size-fits-all template. A good agreement helps avoid confusion later.

Store this document with your other formation papers and review it whenever major changes occur in your LLC in Tennessee. Keeping it up to date helps everyone stay on the same page. Use it as your go-to guide for running your LLC in Tennessee.

7. File Your LLC Articles of Organization

Submit the articles of organization online or by mail to the Tennessee Secretary of State, Business Services Division. Include your LLC name, registered agent’s details, and primary office address, and pay the state’s filing fee.

Track your filing through the state portal and save the approval notice when it arrives. This brings your new LLC in Tennessee into existence. Keep the approval notice in your business records for as long as your LLC in Tennessee exists.

File Your LLC Articles of Organization
Obtain an EIN from the IRS

8. Obtain an EIN from the IRS

Go to the IRS website to apply for your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or tax ID. You’ll need your EIN for hiring employees, opening a business bank account, and filing taxes for your LLC in Tennessee. Filling out the form only takes a few minutes.

Receive your EIN immediately and keep the confirmation letter with your key LLC formation documents. Treat it as your LLC’s permanent tax ID and share it with banks and vendors as needed. Store it somewhere safe for future business use.

9. Register for Tennessee State Taxes

Depending on what your LLC in Tennessee does, you may need to register for state taxes, such as sales tax or franchise tax, and excise tax. Visit the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s website to complete your registration online for this.

Keep track of your tax deadlines and file returns on time to avoid penalties for your LLC in Tennessee. The type of tax you need to register for depends on your industry and business type. Review the legal requirements carefully before you start.

Register for Tennessee State Taxes
Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

10. Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Different cities and counties in Tennessee require specific licenses based on the nature of your business. Contact your local government office or use an online search tool to find what your LLC in Tennessee needs to operate legally.

Some industries may also need permits from the state or federal level, so it’s important to check all levels of government. Start this step early, as processing times can vary. Keep a copy of all active licenses on file for your new LLC in Tennessee.

11. Open a Business Bank Account

Opening a business bank account keeps your personal and business assets and finances separate for better personal liability protection. Bring your EIN, Tennessee LLC articles of organization, and other legal documents to the bank.

A business account makes it easier to track income, expenses, and prepare for taxes. Choose a bank that offers features that suit your business, such as online banking or low fees. Monitor your account regularly to stay on top of your finances.

Open a Business Bank Account
Set Up Accounting and Bookkeeping

12. Set Up Accounting and Bookkeeping

Set up a bookkeeping system to track your income and spending. This helps you prepare for tax season and gives you a clear picture of how your LLC in Tennessee is doing financially. Using accounting software can save time and reduce errors.

Decide whether to manage accounting yourself or hire a professional bookkeeping service provider. Either way, staying organized from the start will make financial tasks much easier. Keep receipts and invoices in one place for easy reference.

13. Build Your Brand and Online Presence

Create a brand identity with a logo, business name, and consistent messaging. Then build a website with all your business information and set up profiles on relevant social media platforms. A strong brand helps your LLC in Tennessee stand out.

Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Add basic information like services, contact details, and business hours. Use social media to connect with your audience and share updates about your new LLC in Tennessee.

Build Your Brand and Online Presence
Register a DBA (Optional)

14. Register a DBA (Optional)

If you want to run your business under a different name than your LLC’s official name, you can file for a “Doing Business As” (DBA). This lets you market your LLC in Tennessee with a more flexible brand name, aka assumed name or trade name.

Check that the fictitious name is available and not in use by another business. Then, file a DBA application with your state. Update your business documents to reflect the new name for your LLC in Tennessee. You can get many DBAs if you need.

15. Obtain a Trademark (Optional)

To protect your business name, logo, or slogan, consider applying for a federal trademark. This keeps others from using similar branding and helps your LLC in Tennessee stand out in the marketplace with a unique brand identity.

Start by searching the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database to see if your name is available. If it’s clear, apply and wait for approval. This legal protection can be a valuable long-term asset to protect the brand of your LLC in Tennessee.

Obtain a Trademark (Optional)
Stay Compliant with the State Rules

16. Stay Compliant with the State Rules

File an annual report with the Secretary of State for your LLC in Tennessee. Timely report filing will keep your business in good standing with the state and avoid late fees or business dissolution. Mark the deadline in your calendar so you don’t forget.

You may also need to renew business licenses or update your registered agent details. Review the state requirements regularly and respond to any notices you receive from the state. Staying compliant helps your LLC in Tennessee run smoothly.

Why Should You Outsource Your Tennessee LLC Formation?

If you want to form an LLC in Tennessee, the simplest way is to file online using the services of a business formation service provider. Here’s why you should hire an expert to form your LLC in Tennessee.

Time-Saving

Time-Saving

Getting expert help means you don’t have to spend hours trying to understand legal forms and filing rules. Professionals already know the process and can handle everything faster. While they complete the paperwork, you can focus on planning your product or finding your first customer. It saves you a lot of time.

Error-Free Application

Error-Free Application

Small mistakes, such as using the wrong form or missing a deadline, can delay approval or cause legal trouble later. Experts know how to complete each step correctly the first time. They check details and stay updated with changing rules, so you don’t have to. This reduces your chances of extra fees or rejected applications.

Expert Guidance

Expert Guidance

Instead of figuring everything out on your own, you get personal support from people who do this every day. Professionals can explain each requirement in simple terms and help you make the best decisions for your business. From choosing a tax structure to creating an operating agreement, you’ll never feel lost.

Streamlined Process

Streamlined Process

Formation services give you all your key documents in one place, neatly packaged and easy to find. This makes it simple to share files with banks, partners, or accountants when needed. Starting with clear, professional records builds a strong foundation for the future success of your LLC in Tennessee.

Convenience

Convenience

Launching a new business takes time, energy, and a long to-do list. By outsourcing formation, you can free your mental space and avoid getting buried in administrative or repetitive work. That means you can spend more time building your brand, networking, or bringing in revenue. It’s simply more convenient.

Ongoing Support

Ongoing Support

Many LLC services don’t just stop once your LLC is formed—they also remind you of annual reports, help with tax filings, and offer legal services and templates. This long-term ongoing support helps you stay compliant without constantly tracking state rules. Knowing someone has your back gives you peace of mind.

Start Your Tennessee LLC

Personal Liability Protection

Forming an LLC in Tennessee separates your personal wealth from business risks. If your company faces debts or lawsuits, creditors can’t touch your home, savings, or personal accounts. This shield works automatically for your LLC in Tennessee.

Courts generally respect this separation when you keep business finances and records in order. You can maintain your limited liability status by following state rules. Clear boundaries between business and personal finances help protect you.

Personal Liability Protection
Low Cost of Formation

Low Cost of Formation

Starting an LLC costs just a few hundred dollars in most states and $300 in Tennessee. You need to pay a one-time filing fee and then minimal annual fees to keep your business active. This makes an LLC an affordable choice.

Compared to corporations, LLCs avoid expensive minimum capital requirements or hefty franchise taxes. You can launch with limited startup cash and scale your operations over time. Lower costs free up resources for marketing and growth.

Flexible Tax Options

An LLC defaults to pass-through taxation, so you can report business income on your personal income tax return. You can avoid corporate-level tax and potential double taxation. This often reduces your overall tax bill and maximizes savings.

If your profits grow, you can elect S-corporation or C-corporation status with a simple IRS form. Changing your tax election helps you optimize for self-employment taxes or reinvestment. You can adjust your tax strategy as your business evolves.

Flexible Tax Options
No Ownership Restrictions

No Ownership Restrictions

An LLC in Tennessee lets you have one member or many, including other businesses or foreign investors. You will face no caps on membership and no residency requirements. This gives you more freedom for your LLC in Tennessee.

You can allocate profits and voting rights in your operating agreement when forming an LLC in Tennessee. Adding or removing members is a straightforward process with documented procedures. Total flexibility supports partnerships of all kinds.

Enhanced Business Credibility

Registering as an LLC signals professionalism and commitment to customers and partners. Adding “LLC” to your business name instantly legitimizes it as vendors and clients trust the formal structure more than they trust sole proprietorships.

Banks and lenders often view limited liability companies more favorably than sole proprietorships or partnerships. That can help you secure financing or favorable vendor terms for your LLC in Tennessee. This paves the way for better opportunities.

Enhanced Business Credibility
Flexible Management Structure

Flexible Management Structure

You can choose whether your LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed. This decision lets you match leadership style to your team’s strengths. You can design a structure that fits your day-to-day needs for managing an LLC in Tennessee.

Your LLC operating agreement spells out roles, decision processes, and approval thresholds for your LLC in Tennessee. You can update management rules as your business grows or members change. This keeps operations smooth and clear.

Ability to Own Business Assets

An LLC can buy and hold property, vehicles, equipment, or intellectual property in its name. This centralizes ownership and simplifies insurance and liability coverage for your LLC in Tennessee. Your business assets stay clearly defined.

Separating assets within the LLC also protects your personal assets from business claims and improves liability protection. It streamlines accounting by keeping all property under one business entity and letting you know what the company owns.

Ability to Own Business Assets
Right to Enter into Contracts

Right to Enter into Contracts

An LLC acts as a separate legal entity when signing leases, vendor agreements, or service contracts. You can sign agreements in the company’s name rather than as an individual. This clarity reduces personal exposure in business dealings.

Disputes and obligations remain with the LLC, preserving your personal liability shield. Clear contract terms in the LLC’s name also help prevent confusion with clients and suppliers. This lets you build professional relationships on a solid legal foundation.

Privacy Protection for Members

Tennessee allows you to list only the registered agent’s address in public records for your LLC. Members’ names and personal addresses stay private unless you choose otherwise. This layer of confidentiality helps protect you from unwanted solicitations.

Keeping sensitive details out of public filings also safeguards you against identity theft. You can control how much information appears on the state’s website. Privacy measures keep your personal life separate from your LLC in Tennessee.

Privacy Protection for Members
Easy Succession Planning

Easy Succession Planning

Unlike sole proprietorships or partnerships, which typically dissolve when the owners die, LLCs can go on even after members’ deaths. You can define procedures for transferring membership interests in your Tennessee LLC operating agreement.

Limited liability companies allow members to transfer ownership or appoint heirs for better succession planning. This lets your business stay stable through planned transitions. Succession planning secures your legacy and supports long-term growth.

Form Your LLC in Tennessee Now
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Essential

Essential Plan

The Essential plan provides additional compliance support and faster turnaround times, plus a few perks to get going. Here’s what’s included in this plan, over and above the services you get with the free plan.

  • Expedited 2-Day Filing: Tailor Brands speeds up your LLC formation by submitting your articles of organization within two business days. You get priority processing so you can start operating faster and avoid long waits. This quick turnaround helps you seize opportunities without delay and gets your LLC in Tennessee up and running quickly.
  • Operating Agreement Drafting: Its team will draft a custom operating agreement that lays out member roles, voting rights, and profit splits. They use your input to build clear rules that prevent disputes and keep your LLC in Tennessee running smoothly. You gain confidence knowing your internal structure rests on a solid, professional document.
  • Annual Compliance Services: Tailor Brands’ team will keep you in good standing with the state of Tennessee by tracking deadlines and filing your annual reports for you. They send reminders for any state fees or paperwork and handle submissions on your behalf. This service saves you time and protects you from late fees or administrative hiccups.
  • $30 Amazon Gift Card: When you sign up for the Essential plan, Tailor Brands sends you a $30 Amazon gift card instantly. You can spend it on office supplies, tech gadgets, or anything else that helps your new business. It’s a nice bonus that adds real value to your investment. You may even use it to buy something for yourself from the Amazon platform

Price: $199/year + state filing fees

Elite Plan

If you’re someone who wants a complete business package and doesn’t mind paying for it, then the Elite plan will suit you well. Here’s what you can expect to get, in addition to the services mentioned above.

  • Free Domain for 1 year: With the Elite plan, you get a matching domain name at no cost for the first year. This helps establish your online presence without adding to your expenses. After the free period, you can renew to keep your brand identity consistent and keep your website running.
  • DIY Website Builder: You will gain access to an intuitive drag-and-drop website builder that makes creating a professional website simple. Customizable templates let you insert your logo, text, and images in minutes. This tool keeps design costs down while delivering polished results.
  • 8 Customizable Logos: You’ll get eight free logos, custom branding materials, and design tools to maintain a consistent brand across your platforms.Tailor Brands’ team will supply eight logo concepts customized to your business and branding. You can tweak fonts, colors, and symbols until you find the perfect match. Having multiple options ensures you land on a look that feels uniquely yours.
  • Digital Business Card Tool: This tool lets you create and share digital business cards directly from your phone or computer. These cards transfer via QR codes or email, letting you exchange contact details instantly. Updating your information takes seconds and reduces paper waste.
  • Social Media Post Creator: The Elite plan includes a social media post creator with ready-made templates for popular platforms. You can drag in your logo, adjust text, and publish eye-catching posts in moments. Scheduling and resizing features streamline your marketing workflow.
  • $50 Amazon Gift Card: Along with these extras, the Elite plan rewards you with a $50 Amazon gift card. You can use it to buy office supplies, tech, or any other tools that support your new LLC in Tennessee. This bonus offsets part of your subscription cost immediately.

Price: $249/year + state filing fees

elite

Why Choose Tailor Brands to Form an LLC in Tennessee?

There are many other reasons why we recommend Tailor Brands. Here are six solid reasons to choose Tailor Brands for forming your LLC in Tennessee.

Free Service

Free Service

If you want to form an LLC in Tennessee for free, Tailor Brands is the way to go. Unlike its peers, it doesn’t charge for the LLC filing service that it offers to entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Error-Free Filing

Error-Free Filing

Filing forms yourself leaves room for typos, missing information, and costly rejections. Tailor Brands double-checks every detail for you, cutting out the stress of resubmissions and unexpected fees.

Ongoing Compliance

Ongoing Compliance

Keeping up with annual reports, tax filings, and registered agent duties can pile up quickly. Tailor Brands tracks deadlines for you and sends reminders so you stay in good standing quickly and effortlessly.

Personalized Support

Personalized Support

You wil get access to coaching sessions and customizable templates that adapt to your needs. Whether it’s strategizing your launch or drafting an operating agreement, you get advice that fits your vision.

Quick filing

Quick filing

With expedited filing options, you can submit your LLC paperwork in as little as two business days. This lets you move on to marketing, product development, or securing funding without waiting weeks for approval.

All-in-One Toolkit

All-in-One Toolkit

Instead of juggling multiple vendors, you get a single platform for domains, design tools, licensing, and more. Bundling services saves you time, simplifies billing, and keeps everything under one roof.

Start Your LLC with Tailor Brands

FAQ

In general, a limited liability company is more affordable than a corporation, but the exact costs vary depending on the state. There are many costs you will incur when forming an LLC in Tennessee, from the initial filing fee to the costs of filing your Tennessee annual report.

Here are some costs associated with forming and running an LLC in Tennessee.

  • Articles of Organization Filing Fee: $300 to file the LLC Articles of Organization (Form SS-4270) with the Tennessee Secretary of State.
  • Name Reservation Fee: $20 to reserve your desired business name for up to 120 days before filing your Articles of Organization.
  • Annual Report Fee: $300 minimum per year (rising by $50 per member over six members, up to a $3,000 maximum) to keep your LLC in good standing.
  • Articles of Amendment Fee: $20 to file amendments (such as changes to your registered agent or principal office address).
  • Certificate of Existence: $20 per certificate if you need official proof that your LLC is in good standing.

Here are the steps you need to take to form a limited liability company (LLC) in Tennessee.

  • Find a Unique Business Idea: Explore your skills and passions to spot a niche where you can add real value. Validating your concept early helps ensure your limited liability company starts on solid ground.
  • Create a Solid Business Plan: Draft clear goals, financial projections, and marketing strategies tailored for your LLC in Tennessee. Use this living document to guide decisions and attract partners or investors.
  • Choose a Unique Business Name: Pick a memorable name for your LLC in Tennessee that ends with “LLC” and reflects your brand’s personality. Confirm it meets Tennessee’s naming rules and stands out in your industry.
  • Reserve Your Business Name: File a Name Reservation Request with the Secretary of State to hold your chosen name for 120 days. This step protects your brand while you finalize paperwork for your limited liability company formation.
  • Choose a Registered Agent: Appoint someone with a physical Tennessee address to receive legal mail on behalf of your LLC in Tennessee. Keeping this role current prevents missed notices and maintains your good standing.
  • Create a Tennessee LLC Operating Agreement: Write an internal document that spells out member roles, voting procedures, and profit splits. A customized agreement helps your limited liability company avoid disputes down the road.
  • File Your LLC Articles of Organization: Submit Form SS-4270 online or by mail, include your registered agent details, and pay the $300 fee. This official filing creates your LLC under Tennessee law.
  • Obtain an EIN from the IRS: Apply online for a free Employer Identification Number used for hiring, banking, and taxes for your LLC in Tennessee. Your EIN also keeps your personal Social Security number out of business records.
  • Register for Tennessee State Taxes: Sign up for sales tax or franchise and excise tax accounts through the Department of Revenue. Proper registration ensures your LLC in Tennessee remains compliant and avoids penalties.
  • Apply for Business Licenses and Permits: Research city, county, and state requirements relevant to your industry and location. Securing the right permits lets your limited liability company operate legally from day one.
  • Open a Business Bank Account: Use your Articles of Organization, EIN, and Operating Agreement to open a dedicated business account. Separating finances protects your personal assets and makes bookkeeping easier.
  • Set Up Accounting and Bookkeeping: Choose accounting software or a professional service to track income, expenses, and tax obligations. Reliable records help your LLC in Tennessee monitor performance and simplify filings.
  • Build Your Brand and Online Presence: Create a logo, website, and social media profiles that align with your business identity. A strong online footprint helps customers find and trust your limited liability company.
  • Register a DBA (Optional): File an Assumed Business Name if you plan to trade under a different name than your Tennessee LLC’s legal title. This optional step gives you marketing flexibility while keeping your official business structure unchanged.
  • Obtain a Trademark (Optional): Apply to the USPTO or state office to protect your brand name, logo, or slogan nationwide. Trademark registration reinforces your LLC in Tennessee’s brand and prevents copycats.
  • Stay Compliant with State Rules: File your annual report and pay fees by your Tennessee LLC’s anniversary date each year. Regularly update any changes to your registered agent or business address to maintain good standing.

Here are some of the key benefits of forming an LLC in Tennessee.

  • An LLC shields your personal assets from business debts and lawsuits.
  • You can set up an LLC in Tennessee with just a modest state filing fee.
  • It allows you to choose pass-through taxation or elect corporate status.
  • You can have any number of members, including individuals, corporations, or foreign entities.
  • Adding “LLC” to your name shows customers and partners you’re a serious, formal operation.
  • You can decide if members manage the Tennessee LLC directly or appoint dedicated managers.
  • An LLC can hold property, equipment, and intellectual property in its own name.
  • Your LLC signs leases, vendor agreements, and client contracts under its legal identity as a legal business entity.
  • Members’ personal information can stay out of public records.

By default, LLC income passes through to members’ federal returns, while the LLC itself pays Tennessee’s franchise tax and excise tax on net worth and earnings.

You must file an annual report and pay the corresponding fee, maintain a registered agent with a Tennessee address, and keep any required state and local business licenses current.