If you are forming a Maine LLC, then this page’s content would be vital. As you learn how to start an LLC, you will realize that the bulk of your initial work and LLC cost comprises filing Maine articles of organization, which we will elaborate on this page.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
What is Articles of Organization?
Articles of Organization, also known as an LLC certificate or Articles of Organization in some states, is a document filed with the secretary of state to form an LLC.
Each state has a different requirement to fill out a form. Articles of Organization usually include the following:
- The name of the LLC,
- the effective date of the LLC,
- the company’s principal office,
- the business purpose,
- the duration of the business,
- a copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate, and
- the name and address of the registered agent, organizers, and
- at least one member of the company.
You can file Articles of Organization online, by mail, or in person.
Note that the certification of formation is a legal requirement, not to mention, the core of your LLC formation. It even makes up the bulk of your Maine LLC cost. Without it, you have no LLC. So, take the time to complete and file this certificate.
How to File Maine Articles of Organization
These are the simple steps to follow in filing Articles of Organization in Maine.
Step 1: Find Forms Online
Go to the Maine Secretary of State to download the articles of organization form for your LLC or to log into the online service.
Step 2: Fill Out Form
When filling out the form, you must have reserved an LLC name. Do a name search. Go to Maine LLC Name Search to check whether your chosen business name is available to use in this state.
You must attach a copy of your Name Reservation to your filled-out Articles of Organization form when filing. You also need to nominate a registered agent. Here are 3 of the best LLC services on our list.
Step 3: File Formation Certificates
File your formation certificate by mail by filling out a form and sending it to the Secretary of State Division of Corporations, UCC and Commissions, 101 State House Station, Augusta, ME 04333-0101.
Filing Certificate of Formation via Mail
Time needed: 5 minutes
The Articles can be filed only via mail. The formation guide in the following steps will help you file for the articles of the organization, so read on and get the info.
- Visit the Official Secretary of State of Maine Website
The Official Website of the Secretary of State of Maine provides information about the Forms and Fees requirements of Limited Liability Companies in the State of Maine.
- Get The Limited Liability Company Certificate of Formation Form
Scroll down to the section “Limited Liability Companies (Title 31, Chapter 21). In this section, click on the link “MLLC-6” which contains the Certificate of Formation.
- Certificate of Formation PDF Form
The link will navigate you to the Certificate of Formation Application PDF. Download the form. You can get the printed copy of the form and fill it in ink or you can download the form on your system and type in the details, print it, and sign.
- Fill up the form
In the first part of the application form, you are required to specify the details about your LLC, such as LLC name, filing date, and designation as a low-profit LLC or a professional LLC.
- Enter details of the Registered Agent
Followed by the next page where you must provide the details of your Registered Agent in the State of Maine, whether a Commercial Agent or a Noncommercial Agent, their street address and their consent to work as the registered agent for this LLC.
- Fill Up The Contact Cover Letter
The next page contains the Filer Contact Cover Letter addressed to the Department of Secretary of State. Enter the required information such as Name of Entity – fill in the complete name of your LLC and it should match exactly with the name mentioned on the first page of your application form. In the ‘Type of filing’ section – write down “Certificate of Formation”. In the ‘total filing fee’ section, you can mention the appropriate amount as follows:
– Non-expedited (normal Processing) fee is $175
– Expedited filing (24 hours) fee is $175 + $50
– Expedited filing (immediate service) is $175 + $100
After filling in your total fee, provide your contact information: your name, phone number, email address. - Finish Filling Up The Form
After completing all the information in the application form, sign the documents and write a check payable to the “Secretary of State”.
- Submit The Form
Submit your Complete documents and filing fee to the following address: Secretary of State Division of Corporations, UCC and Commissions 101 State House Station Augusta, ME 04333-0101
After approval, you will receive an approved copy of your Certificate of Formation in 5-7 business days during normal processing.
F.A.Qs
An Article of Organization is a legal document that will officially make your LLC into existence. This document is needed specifically for Maine in forming an LLC business structure.
The application form for the Articles of Organization needs to include the LLC name, date of establishment, the company’s registered office, business purpose, how long the business will exist, and a copy of the LLC’s name registration certificate.
Filing by mail or in person is neither highly recommended nor required; waiting an extra week for your LLC to be approved isn’t that bad. The LLC approval you send in will be returned by mail. Online filing, meanwhile, is more convenient as you won’t have to stay in a queue.
Where Can You Find Your Maine LLC Articles of Organization
For accessing Articles of Organization for Maine LLC, you can download the PDF from the Maine Secretary of State webiste. Maine does not have online filing options
Before diving into the intricacies of where you can find your Maine LLC Articles of Organization, let’s first understand what these documents are. The Articles of Organization, also known as a Certificate of Formation in some states, officially establish your LLC and provide detailed information about your business, such as its name, address, purpose, registered agent, and members/managers.
So, where can you find your Maine LLC Articles of Organization? The process is relatively straightforward and can be completed online through the Maine Secretary of State’s website. Simply visit their Corporations Division webpage, locate the LLC formation section, and follow the step-by-step instructions to submit your Articles of Organization electronically.
Alternatively, if you prefer to file your Articles of Organization by mail or in person, you can download the necessary forms from the Secretary of State’s website, fill them out accurately, and send them along with the required filing fee to the designated address. Keep in mind that processing times may vary depending on the method of submission and current workload.
It’s essential to ensure that your Maine LLC Articles of Organization are completed correctly to avoid any delays or complications in the formation of your LLC. Double-check all information provided, including your business name, registered agent details, and management structure, to prevent any rejections or additional paperwork.
Once your Maine LLC Articles of Organization are submitted and approved, you will receive a stamped and endorsed copy from the Secretary of State, confirming the official formation of your LLC. This document is crucial as it serves as proof of your business’s existence and should be kept in a safe and accessible location for future reference.
In conclusion, finding your Maine LLC Articles of Organization is a vital step in the process of establishing your business entity. By following the guidelines outlined by the Maine Secretary of State and ensuring accuracy in your submission, you can smoothly navigate through the formation process and focus on growing your business.
Remember that compliance with state regulations and requirements is key to maintaining the integrity and legitimacy of your LLC. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your Maine LLC Articles of Organization, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Secretary of State’s office for assistance. Your journey as a business owner in Maine starts with the proper filing of your LLC formation documents – take the first step today.
In Conclusion
Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation is the most important document for your Maine LLC. Before you submit/file the document make sure to provide proper and correct information about your company. If you have any questions, share that below in the comment section.