How to Start an LLC in Mississippi

Forming an LLC in Mississippi provides your business with personal liability protection, tax flexibility, and a professional business structure. The filing fee for a Mississippi LLC is $50, paid to the Mississippi Secretary of State when you submit your Certificate of Formation.

Follow these steps to start your Mississippi LLC in 2026.

How to Start an LLC in Mississippi (6 Steps)

Step 1: Name Your Mississippi LLC

Your Mississippi LLC name must be distinguishable from other registered business entities in the state. The name must include “Limited Liability Company,” “LLC,” or “L.L.C.” It cannot contain words that imply the company is a government agency or use restricted terms like “bank” or “insurance” without proper authorization.

Search the Mississippi Secretary of State business database to verify your desired name is available. If you want to hold a name while preparing your formation documents, you can reserve it for 180 days by filing a name reservation with the Secretary of State.

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

Mississippi requires every LLC to appoint a registered agent with a physical street address in Mississippi. Your registered agent receives legal notices, tax correspondence, and official state documents on behalf of your LLC during regular business hours.

While you can name yourself or a member of your LLC as the registered agent, many business owners use a professional service for convenience and privacy. We recommend Northwest Registered Agent at $39 per year. They provide a reliable Mississippi address and ensure you never miss an important legal notice.

Step 3: File the Certificate of Formation

To create your Mississippi LLC, file a Certificate of Formation with the Mississippi Secretary of State. The filing fee is $50. You can file online through the Mississippi Secretary of State website. Standard processing time is approximately 5-7 business days.

Your Certificate of Formation must include the LLC’s name, the name and address of your registered agent, the LLC’s duration (perpetual or a specific date), and the purpose of the business. You will also need to provide the name and address of at least one organizer.

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

Mississippi does not require LLCs to adopt an operating agreement, but creating one is highly advisable. This document governs the internal operations of your LLC, including ownership percentages, voting rights, profit and loss distribution, and procedures for admitting or withdrawing members.

An operating agreement protects your limited liability status by demonstrating that your LLC operates as a separate entity from its owners. Banks typically require one when you open a business bank account, and it provides a clear framework for resolving disputes among members.

Step 5: Get an EIN

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is your LLC’s federal tax identification number. You need an EIN to hire employees, open a business bank account, and file federal tax returns. Even single-member LLCs should obtain an EIN to keep personal and business tax matters separate.

Learn how to get an EIN from the IRS at no charge. The online application takes only a few minutes, and your EIN is assigned immediately.

Step 6: File Your Mississippi Annual Report

Mississippi LLCs must file an annual report with the Secretary of State each year. The good news is that the annual report filing fee is $0 — there is no cost to file. The report is due by April 15 each year and keeps your LLC’s information current with the state.

Even though there is no fee, you must still file the report on time. Failure to file your annual report can result in administrative dissolution of your LLC. You can submit the report online through the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website.

Mississippi LLC Costs

Mississippi LLC Taxes

Mississippi LLCs are pass-through entities by default, meaning the LLC does not pay income tax at the entity level. Instead, profits pass through to members’ personal tax returns. Mississippi imposes a graduated state income tax of 4% to 5% on individual income.

Single-member LLCs are taxed as sole proprietorships, and multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships by the IRS. You may elect to have your LLC taxed as an S-corp or C-corp if it offers tax advantages. Members actively participating in the business must pay federal self-employment tax of 15.3% on their share of LLC profits.

Mississippi has a state sales tax rate of 7%. If your LLC sells taxable goods or services, you will need to register for a sales tax permit and collect and remit sales tax to the Mississippi Department of Revenue.

Mississippi LLC Annual Requirements

Mississippi LLCs must file an annual report each year at no cost. The report is due by April 15 and can be filed online. Although the report is free, failing to file will put your LLC at risk of administrative dissolution.

You must maintain a registered agent in Mississippi at all times. If your agent’s information changes, update it promptly with the Secretary of State. Keep your operating agreement up to date and maintain separate financial accounts for your business and personal finances.

Depending on your business activities, you may need additional state or local licenses and permits. Check with the Mississippi Secretary of State and your local city or county offices for specific requirements.

Best LLC Formation Services for Mississippi

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Mississippi?

The Mississippi Secretary of State charges a $50 filing fee for the Certificate of Formation. The annual report is free to file. Optional costs include a professional registered agent service starting at $39 per year.

How long does it take to get an LLC in Mississippi?

Online filings with the Mississippi Secretary of State are typically processed within 5-7 business days. Expedited options may be available for an additional fee if you need faster processing.

Does Mississippi require an operating agreement?

No, Mississippi does not legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement. However, creating one is strongly recommended to define member roles, ownership percentages, and operating procedures, and to protect your liability shield.

What is the Mississippi annual report?

Mississippi LLCs must file an annual report by April 15 each year. The report has no filing fee and updates the state with your LLC’s current information. Failure to file may result in administrative dissolution.

Does Mississippi have a state income tax?

Yes, Mississippi has a graduated state income tax ranging from 4% to 5%. LLC members report their share of business income on their personal tax returns. Mississippi does not impose a separate entity-level tax on LLCs.

Can I form a Mississippi LLC if I live in another state?

Yes, non-residents can form an LLC in Mississippi. You do not need to live in or have a physical presence in the state, but you must appoint a registered agent with a Mississippi street address.

How do I dissolve a Mississippi LLC?

To dissolve your Mississippi LLC, file a Certificate of Dissolution with the Secretary of State. Before dissolving, settle all debts and obligations, distribute remaining assets to members, cancel licenses and permits, and file final state and federal tax returns.

Can I change my Mississippi LLC’s registered agent?

Yes, you can change your registered agent at any time by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent with the Mississippi Secretary of State. There may be a small filing fee for this change.

Do I need a business license in Mississippi?

Mississippi does not require a general statewide business license for all LLCs. However, certain industries require specific state licenses, and your city or county may have local licensing requirements. Check with local government offices for details.