*This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Additionally, some links in this guide may be affiliate links. For more details, visit our disclaimer page.
Starting your own business is exciting, and forming a Virginia LLC is a smart way to protect your personal assets while keeping things simple.
Whether you’re freelancing, selling products, or building a brand, an LLC offers flexibility and security as a business owner.
This guide is designed for Solopreneurs with privacy in mind.
Many details about your business will be publicly available, which can be a concern—especially if you’re considering using your home address for registration.
We’ll share tips on how to keep your personal information private while forming your LLC.
Take a moment to explore this guide—it’s your roadmap to confidently starting an LLC in Virginia.
Overview
- LLC Prerequisites
- Filing Articles of Organization
- Creating an Operating Agreement
- Obtaining a Federal EIN
- Opening a Business Bank Account
- Registering for Taxes & Permits
- Ongoing Compliance Requirements
*Starting your LLC yourself is the most budget-friendly option.
But if you prefer expert assistance for 100% accuracy and compliance, consider using one of Virginia’s Top LLC formation services for only $100 + State Filing Fee!
*Expand each section below to learn more.
Before forming your LLC, ask yourself:
Do I mind if my name and home address are listed on a public database connected to my LLC?
By default, certain details about your business will be publicly available in the Virginia State Corporation Commission’s (VA SCC) Clerk Information System (CIS) database, including:
- Business Name
- Registered Agent Name and Address
- Principal Office Address
For many solopreneurs, this raises a privacy concern, if you plan to use your name and home address for these requirements.
Understanding the Registered Agent and Principal Office Address
- Registered Agent – This is a person or company responsible for receiving official documents on behalf of your business, such as legal notices, tax forms, and compliance reminders. Every LLC in Virginia is required to have one.
- Principal Office Address – This is the official location of your LLC’s main operations. It must be a physical address (not a P.O. Box), but it doesn’t have to be where you conduct daily business.
While this guide will cover these details later, it’s important to mention them now because most solopreneurs do not have a separate office address and often use their personal name and home address for these requirements.
Using your home address is allowed and the most cost-effective option, but if privacy is a concern, consider the alternative steps below.
If you prefer to keep your personal information off public records, you can follow these simple and affordable steps:
Step 1. Get a Virtual Office Address for your Principal Office Address
- A virtual office provides a real street address for your LLC.
- Most services scan your mail and forward it to your email so you can decide whether to pick it up or discard it.
- Bonus: This also prevents junk mail from being sent to your home.
Step 2. Use a Trusted LLC Formation Service for your Registered Agent
(Only $100 + State Filing Fee)
This service files your LLC with 100% accuracy and includes one year of free Registered Agent service. Meaning they will use their business name and address when filing, keeping your name private.
Some business owners wonder if they can use one service for both the Registered Agent and Principal Office Address. Here’s why that’s not ideal:
Why a Virtual Office Address Can’t Be a Registered Agent:
Virtual office services provide mail handling but do not act as Registered Agents.
Why a Registered Agent Address Shouldn’t Be Your Principal Office Address:
Registered Agents only receive legal and government documents, not regular business mail. If you use a Registered Agent service for your Principal Office Address, they may charge extra fees for handling your business mail.
Yes, you can update your LLC’s Registered Agent or Principal Office Address at any time. However, previous business records—such as your initial Articles of Organization—will remain public, showing the names and addresses previously used.
That’s why we recommend using a Virtual Office Address and a Professional LLC Formation Service from the start to ensure your privacy from day one.
Choosing the right name for your LLC is important. Your business name should represent your brand while also meeting Virginia’s legal requirements.
Virginia LLC Naming Rules
Your LLC name must:
- Include “LLC” – Virginia law requires that your business name includes “Limited Liability Company” or an approved abbreviation such as LLC, L.L.C., L.C., or LC.
- Be Unique – It cannot be identical or too similar to an existing business name in Virginia. Use VA SCC’s Business Entity Search to check availability.
- Avoid Restricted Words – Certain words, like “bank” or “insurance,” require additional approval before they can be used in an LLC name.
Checking Name Availability
Once you have a name in mind:
- Search Virginia’s Business Database (Business Entity Search) to ensure your name is available.
- Check for Trademark Conflicts (Trademark Search) to avoid legal issues.
- Secure a Domain Name (Domain Availability Search) if you plan to create a website.
Examples of Strong LLC Names
- Old Dominion IT Solutions LLC
- Virginia Artisan Goods LLC
- Shenandoah Marketing Strategies LLC
Taking the time to choose a unique, compliant name will help set your business up for success. Once you’ve settled on a name, you’re ready for the next step.
Every LLC in Virginia is required to designate a Registered Agent. This is a person or business entity responsible for receiving official correspondence, such as:
- Tax notices
- Annual registration fee reminders
- Legal documents (e.g., service of process for lawsuits)
A Registered Agent ensures compliance by making sure important legal and government documents reach you.
Registered Agent Requirements
Your Registered Agent must:
- Have a physical street address in Virginia (P.O. Boxes are not allowed).
- Be either a Virginia resident or a business entity authorized to operate in the state.
Your Options as a Solopreneur
As a solopreneur, you have two main choices when appointing a Registered Agent:
Option I: Act as Your Own Registered Agent
(Most Budget-Friendly)
If you live in Virginia and have a physical street address, you can serve as your own Registered Agent. However, this means your name and address will be publicly listed in the Virginia SCC database. For solopreneurs without a separate business address, this often means using your home address, which could raise privacy concerns.
Option II: Hire Virginia’s Top Registered Agent Service
(Best for Privacy)
If privacy is a priority, this Registered Agent Service is a great solution. For only $100 + Virginia’s Filing Fee, this service will:
- Provide a professional business address, keeping your personal information private.
- Receive and handle legal and official documents on your behalf.
- Scan and forward important mail promptly, ensuring you never miss a critical notice.
If you want total privacy, it’s best to sign up for a Virtual Office Address before using a Registered Agent Service.
Why? Because when forming your LLC with a Registered Agent Service, you still need to provide a Principal Office Address.
If you secure a Virtual Office Address first, you can use it for your Principal Office Address and keep your private info off public records.
Filing Articles of Organization is the official step to form your LLC in Virginia. This document is submitted to the Virginia State Corporation Commission (VA SCC) and legally registers your business with the state.
The process is simple and completed online.
1. Register for an account
2. Choose “Online Services”
3. Choose “New Businesses”
Here’s what you need to know.
Information Required in the Articles of Organization
When filing, you must provide the following details:
- LLC Name – Must follow Virginia’s naming rules (e.g., include “LLC” or “L.L.C.”).
- Registered Agent Information – Provide the name and physical address of your chosen Registered Agent.
- Principal Office Address – This is the official business address listed in public records. While it does not receive legal documents (those go to your Registered Agent), it will receive business-related mail, such as:
- Marketing materials (junk mail)
- Vendor invoices
- General business correspondence
- Organizer Information – The name and signature of the person filing the Articles of Organization.
If you prefer to keep your home address private, a Virtual Business Address is a smart option. For a small monthly fee, you get a real street address that:
- Can be used as your Principal Office Address.
- Scans and forwards mail to you.
- Filters out junk mail, including unwanted credit card and loan offers.
* If you’re using a Registered Agent Service to form your LLC, they’ll handle filing the Articles of Organization for you. However, if you want total privacy, a Virtual Business Address is still recommended.
Online Filing Fees
- You must file online through the Virginia SCC’s CIS System. Online filings are typically processed the same day. The state filing fee is $100.00.
What Happens Next?
Once your Articles of Organization are approved, your LLC is officially formed! You’ll receive a Certificate of Organization from the SCC, which serves as proof that your LLC exists. Keep this document in your business records, as it may be required for tasks like opening a business bank account.
An Operating Agreement isn’t legally required in Virginia, but it’s a smart move for any solopreneur forming an LLC. Think of it as a roadmap for how your business will operate. Even if you’re the only member, having an Operating Agreement formalizes your business structure and helps ensure everything runs smoothly.
What Is an Operating Agreement?
An Operating Agreement is a legal document that outlines the ownership and management structure of your LLC. It sets clear rules for how your business will function, including:
- Ownership percentages (if applicable).
- How profits and losses are distributed.
- Roles and responsibilities.
- Decision-making processes.
- What happens if you dissolve your LLC.
Why Solopreneurs Should Still Have One
Even if you’re running a one-person business, an Operating Agreement has several benefits:
- Strengthens Liability Protection – It helps establish your LLC as a separate legal entity, reinforcing your personal liability protection.
- Prepares for Growth – If you add partners or investors later, having an agreement in place can prevent misunderstandings.
- Increases Credibility – Banks, investors, and even legal professionals may request an Operating Agreement as part of their due diligence.
How to Create One
Drafting an Operating Agreement doesn’t have to be complicated. You can:
- Use a free downloadable template available online.
- Customize it yourself if you have a simple business structure.
- Have one created for you..
Keep It on File
Once your Operating Agreement is finalized, store it in your business records.
You don’t need to file it with the Virginia SCC, but it’s useful for:
- Tax purposes
- Opening a business bank account
- Future business decisions
Even though it’s optional, having an Operating Agreement provides clarity, protection, and professionalism for your LLC.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the IRS to identify your business for tax purposes. Even if you’re a solopreneur without employees, getting an EIN is often necessary for running your business smoothly.
Why Do You Need an EIN?
Here are some key reasons to obtain an EIN for your Virginia LLC:
- Open a Business Bank Account – Banks typically require an EIN to open a business account, helping you keep personal and business finances separate.
- Tax Filing – You’ll need an EIN to file federal and state taxes for your LLC.
- Hiring Employees – If you plan to hire employees in the future, an EIN is mandatory for payroll and withholding taxes.
- Business Licenses and Permits – Some localities and industries require an EIN to apply for permits or licenses.
- Professional Appearance – Having an EIN can make your business look more legitimate and professional, especially when working with clients or vendors.
How to Apply for an EIN
The good news? Getting an EIN is simple and free! Here’s how:
- Online – The fastest way to apply is through the IRS’s EIN page on their website. You’ll receive your EIN immediately upon completing the application.
Pro Tips for Solopreneurs
- Single-Member LLCs – Even if you’re taxed as a sole proprietor, having an EIN is still recommended. It keeps your Social Security Number private when dealing with clients, vendors, or other third parties.
- Keep It Handy – Once you receive your EIN, store the confirmation letter in your business records. You’ll need it for banking, taxes, and other business-related tasks.
Even though it’s not always required, having an EIN simplifies many aspects of running your LLC and adds an extra layer of professionalism.ing, taxes, and other business-related tasks.
Opening a dedicated business bank account is essential for any solopreneur forming an LLC. It helps keep personal and business finances separate, which is important for managing your money and maintaining the liability protection that comes with your LLC.
Why You Need a Business Bank Account
- Protect Your LLC Status – Mixing personal and business funds (commingling) can weaken your liability protection, putting your personal assets at risk.
- Simplify Accounting – A separate account makes it easier to track business income and expenses, simplifying bookkeeping and tax filing.
- Build Business Credit – Using a business bank account can help establish credit for your LLC, which may be useful if you need loans or financing in the future.
- Enhance Professionalism – Paying vendors, receiving client payments, and handling other transactions through a business account boosts your business’s credibility.
What You’ll Need to Open a Business Bank Account
Banks may require the following documents:
- EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
- Articles of Organization from the Virginia SCC
- Operating Agreement (some, but not all, banks require this to verify your LLC’s structure)
- Valid ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Initial deposit (varies by bank)
Choosing the Right Bank
When selecting a bank, consider:
- Fees – Look for accounts with no monthly maintenance fees.
- Services – Check for features like online banking, mobile deposits, and business credit cards.
- Location – If you prefer in-person banking, choose a bank with branches nearby.
- Special Offers – Some banks offer cash bonuses or incentives for opening a business account.
Pro Tip
It’s a good idea to open your business account early, even if your LLC isn’t generating revenue yet. This ensures all income and expenses are properly tracked from day one, keeping your finances organized and preserving your LLC’s liability protection.
Depending on your business type and activities, you may need to register for taxes and obtain certain licenses or permits to operate legally in Virginia. This step ensures your LLC complies with state and local regulations, so don’t skip it!
Taxes Your LLC May Need to Register For
- Virginia Sales Tax – If you sell physical products or taxable services in Virginia, you must register to collect and remit sales tax. This can be done online through the Virginia Department of Taxation’s VATAX portal.
- Employer Taxes – If you hire employees, you’ll need to register for state employer taxes, including:
- Unemployment insurance tax
- State income tax withholding
Business Licenses and Permits
Virginia does not require a statewide business license, but many cities and counties have their own requirements. You’ll need to check with your local government to see what licenses or permits apply to your LLC.
If you’re a solopreneur running an online business, there’s good news—many online businesses don’t require a local business license or permit, especially if you don’t have a physical storefront or operate within specific zoning regulations. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your locality to confirm whether any permits or registrations apply.
How to Find Local Requirements
To determine what’s required for your LLC:
- Visit your city or county’s website.
- Contact your local Commissioner of Revenue or Business License Office for specific licensing requirements.
Forming your LLC in Virginia is just the beginning. To keep your business in good standing, you’ll need to stay on top of ongoing compliance requirements, including annual filings and Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting.
Understanding BOI Reporting
Under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), many LLCs are now required to file Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reports with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This federal initiative aims to combat money laundering, fraud, and other financial crimes.
Who Needs to File?
Most small LLCs must file a BOI report unless they qualify for specific exemptions (such as publicly traded companies or certain large businesses).
What Information is Required?
The report must include:
- Company details – Legal name and formation information.
- Beneficial owner details – Name, birth date, address, and a copy of a government-issued ID for each owner.
Your BOI report is not public and will be kept private by FinCEN.
When to File?
- New LLCs: BOI reporting is required within 30 days of formation (starting January 1, 2024).
- Existing LLCs: Updates must be filed within 30 days if there are changes to the LLC name, Registered Agent, or ownership structure.
How to File?
BOI reports can be submitted electronically through FinCEN’s filing system.
Update:
Companies are not currently required to file BOI reports or face penalties for non-compliance while an order remains in force. However, voluntary filing is still recommended.
**If you want your BOI report completed for you, consider using a trusted BOI Reporting Service.
Final Thoughts
Starting your Virginia LLC is a big step toward building a successful business, and doing it right will set you up for long-term success.
By following this guide, you now have the knowledge to form your LLC confidently while keeping your personal information private. Remember to stay compliant with Virginia’s ongoing LLC requirements, such as filing your annual report and maintaining a Registered Agent.
If you ever need assistance, one of Virginia’s top professional LLC formation services can help, ensuring everything is filed accurately – only $100 + State Filing Fee.
Congratulations! Now, you’re ready to focus on what matters most—growing your business!
1. How much does it cost to start an LLC in Virginia?
The main cost is the $100 filing fee for the Articles of Organization. Additional costs may include name reservation fees or hiring a registered agent service.
2. Do I need a lawyer to form an LLC in Virginia?
No, you can complete the process yourself by following this guide above or by using a trusted LLC Formation Service. However, you may consult a lawyer if you have complex legal or tax concerns.
3. How long does it take to form an LLC in Virginia?
If you use a Registered Agent Service or file online yourself, they are usually processed the same day.
4. Can I change my LLC’s registered agent, principal office address, or name later?
Yes, you can update any of your LLC’s details by filing the correct online form with the VA SCC.