Connecticut (CT)

How to Start a Business in Connecticut (Step by Step Guide)

Connecticut Business formationAre you thinking about starting your own business in Connecticut?  If so, you have come to the right place!

On this page, then you can find step by step DIY instructions on how to incorporate your business in Connecticut. From selecting the business entity type to forms to be filled, we have covered it all.

Let’s get Started

The first step in setting up your business is to select the business structure.

Broadly there are 4 types of business entities:

  1. Limited Liability Company (Most Popular)
  2. Corporation
  3. Sole Proprietorship
  4. Partnership

Each business structure differs on the basis of taxation, asset liability and estate planning. We have written a detailed tutorial on how to choose a business entity type for your business here.

Below we have given a broad outline of the steps involved in registering an LLC or Corporation in Connecticut.

Clicking on each step, opens up a detailed guide on how to complete it.

How to Start an LLC in Connecticut

Agency NameConnecticut Secretary of State – Business Services
Form(s) to be filledCertificate of Organization (FORM LC-1-1.0.)
ModeMail or fax
Name ReservationOptional, Fee $60 (Mail)
Filing Fee$120 + Expedite fee: $50 (optional)
Time1 week (Expedite option available)
LawC.G.S. §34-247


Summary:

  1. Search for business name availability on Connecticut SOS website
  2. File for Business name reservation
  3. Select Registered Agent
  4. Fill Certificate of Organization form (FORM LC-1-1.0.).
  5. Create an Operating Agreement
  6. Get Federal EIN Number
  7. Connecticut State Tax Registeration (Form REG-1)
  8. Obtain relevant business licenses and permits
  9. [Ongoing] File Annual Report (Fee: $20)



How to Start a Corporation in Connecticut

Agency NameConnecticut Secretary of State – Business Services
Form(s) to be filledCertificate of Incorporation
ModeMail or fax
Name ReservationOptional, Fee $60 (Mail)
Filing Fee$120 + Expedite fee: $50 (optional)
Time1 week (Expedite option available)
LawChapter 601 – Business Corporations


Summary:

  1. Search for a Business Name
  2. File for Business Name Reservation
  3. Select Registered Agent
  4. Fill Certificate of Incorporation
  5. Prepare Corporate Bylaws
  6. Get Federal EIN Number
  7. Connecticut State Tax Registeration (Form REG-1)
  8. Obtain relevant business licenses and permits (ref)
  9. [Ongoing] File Annual Report (Fee: $20)


References:
https://www.cga.ct.gov/2017/pub/chap_613a.htm

Fact-checked on 24/07/2018