Steps to Form an Indiana LLC — INBiz Portal Walkthrough

This guide walks you through the actual process of forming an Indiana LLC using the INBiz portal at inbiz.in.gov. Every step references the real system, actual form fields, and current fees.

Before You Begin

Gather this information:

• Your chosen LLC name (already verified as available)
• Principal office address
• Registered agent name and Indiana street address (requirements)
• Management type decision: member-managed or manager-managed
• Payment method: credit card, debit card, or e-check for the $95 fee

Step 1: Create an INBiz Account

Go to inbiz.in.gov and create a free account. INBiz is Indiana's one-stop business portal — you'll use this same account for all future filings including Business Entity Reports and amendments.

Step 2: Start a New LLC Filing

From your INBiz dashboard, select "File Online" then "New Business Entity" and choose "Domestic Limited Liability Company." The system walks you through a multi-step form.

Step 3: Enter Your LLC Name

Enter your exact LLC name including the designator (LLC, L.L.C., or Limited Liability Company). INBiz checks availability in real time. If unavailable, you'll need to modify or choose a different name.

Step 4: Provide Business Information

• Principal office address — Your main business location (can be home address)
• Mailing address — If different from principal office
• Email address — For official correspondence from the SOS
• County — Select the Indiana county where your principal office is located

Step 5: Designate Registered Agent

Enter your registered agent's information:

• Agent name (individual or entity)
• Indiana street address (no PO boxes)
• If using a commercial registered agent, they should already be listed in INBiz

The registered agent must consent to serve. Professional services handle consent automatically.

Step 6: Provide Organizer Information

Enter the name and address of the person organizing the LLC. This is typically you or a formation service. The organizer doesn't need to be a member.

Step 7: Select Management Structure

Choose between:

• Member-managed — All members participate in daily management
• Manager-managed — Designated managers run operations

Step 8: Additional Information

• Duration — Perpetual (most common) or specific end date
• Purpose — Indiana allows "any lawful purpose" (recommended)
• Effective date — Date of filing or a specified future date

Step 9: Review and Pay

Review all entries for accuracy. Pay the $95 filing fee by credit card, debit card, or e-check. Option to add expedited processing ($50 additional for 24-hour turnaround).

Step 10: Confirmation

You'll receive immediate email confirmation with a tracking number. Standard processing: 5-7 business days. Expedited: 24 hours (next business day).

After Filing: Immediate Next Steps

1. Wait for approval email from the Indiana SOS
2. Download your filed Articles of Organization from INBiz
3. Apply for your EIN at irs.gov (instant)
4. Draft your operating agreement
5. Open a business bank account with your EIN and Articles
6. Set a reminder for your first Business Entity Report (2 years out)

Common Filing Mistakes

1. Name missing designator — Must include LLC, L.L.C., or Limited Liability Company
2. PO box as registered agent address — Must be a physical Indiana street address
3. Wrong management type — Understand the difference before choosing; changing requires amendment
4. Typos in LLC name — Corrections require an amendment filing
5. Invalid email — All communications go to this email; keep it accessible

FAQ

Can I save my filing and come back later?

Yes. INBiz allows you to save drafts. Your in-progress filing is available from your dashboard.

What if I make a mistake?

File Articles of Amendment through INBiz to correct errors. Fee varies. For minor issues, contact the Indiana SOS at (317) 232-6576.

Can someone else file for me?

Yes. The organizer doesn't need to be a member. Attorneys, formation services, or other representatives can file.

Do I need an Indiana business license separately?

Formation creates your legal entity. Business licenses are separate and vary by city/county. Check with your municipality.