Steps to Form a Tennessee LLC — Filing Walkthrough

This guide walks through filing your Tennessee LLC using the Secretary of State's online system at sos.tn.gov. The formation document is Form SS-4270 (Articles of Organization). For the complete formation process, see our main guide.

Before You Begin

Gather:

• LLC name (verified available)
• Registered agent name and Tennessee street address
• Principal office address
• Number of members (determines fee: $300 per member)
• Management type: member-managed or manager-managed
• Payment for filing fee ($300 minimum)

Step 1: Access Tennessee SOS Filing System

Go to sos.tn.gov and navigate to Business Services > Online Filings. Create an account or log in.

Step 2: Select LLC Formation

Choose "Articles of Organization — Limited Liability Company" (Form SS-4270).

Step 3: Enter LLC Name

Enter your exact name including designator (LLC, L.L.C., or Limited Liability Company). The system checks availability.

Step 4: Registered Agent Information

Enter your registered agent's name and Tennessee street address. Tennessee uniquely allows the LLC itself to serve as its own registered agent — if you choose this option, provide a "registered office" address in Tennessee.

Step 5: Management and Members

• Select member-managed or manager-managed
• Provide the number of members (this determines your filing fee)
• Provide name and address of at least one member or manager

Step 6: Additional Information

• Duration (perpetual or fixed term)
• Principal office address
• Organizer information

Step 7: Pay and Submit

Pay $300 per member (minimum $300). Processing: 5-7 business days standard.

After Filing

1. Wait for approval notification
2. Download filed Articles from your SOS account
3. Apply for EIN at irs.gov
4. Register with Tennessee Department of Revenue for F&E tax
5. Open business bank account
6. Set reminders: Annual Report (April 1) and F&E tax return

FAQ

Can I file by mail?

Yes. Mail Form SS-4270 with payment to: Tennessee Secretary of State, 6th Floor Snodgrass Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Ave., Nashville, TN 37243. Processing: 2-4 weeks.

What does "$300 per member" mean?

The filing fee is calculated by multiplying $300 times the number of members. Single-member: $300. Two members: $600. Three: $900. This is one of Tennessee's unique (and expensive) features.