In New Jersey, the formation document for a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is officially referred to as the Certificate of Formation. This document is essential for legally establishing an LLC in the state. The Certificate of Formation outlines the basic details of the LLC, such as its name, registered agent, and management structure. The legal framework governing the formation and operation of LLCs in New Jersey is found in the New Jersey Revised Statutes, Title 42:2C. For more detailed information, you can visit the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services.
Yes, filing the Certificate of Formation is mandatory for establishing an LLC in New Jersey. According to N.J. Rev. Stat. § 42:2C-18, an LLC is not legally recognized until this document is filed with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services. Failure to file the Certificate of Formation means the LLC does not legally exist, and the business cannot operate under the LLC structure.
The LLC name must include the words "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviations "LLC" or "L.L.C." as per N.J. Rev. Stat. § 42:2C-8. The name must be distinguishable from other registered entities in New Jersey. Certain words, such as "bank" or "insurance," may require additional approval from relevant state agencies. You can check name availability using the New Jersey Business Name Search.
Every New Jersey LLC must designate a registered agent and a registered office within the state, as required by N.J. Rev. Stat. § 42:2C-14. The registered agent can be an individual resident or a business entity authorized to do business in New Jersey. The registered office must be a physical address, not a P.O. Box. Consent from the registered agent is required.
The Certificate of Formation must specify whether the LLC is member-managed or manager-managed, as outlined in N.J. Rev. Stat. § 42:2C-10. The document should include the names and addresses of the initial members or managers.
An organizer is responsible for filing the Certificate of Formation. There are no residency requirements for organizers in New Jersey. The organizer must provide their name and address in the formation document.
New Jersey allows for a general purpose statement, meaning the LLC can engage in any lawful business activity. However, specific language may be required for certain professional services. For more information, refer to the New Jersey Professional Entity Forms.
The Certificate of Formation becomes effective upon filing unless a delayed effective date is specified, as per N.J. Rev. Stat. § 42:2C-19. A delayed effective date cannot be more than 90 days after the filing date.
The Certificate of Formation can be filed online through the New Jersey Business Formation Service. The service is available 24/7, and processing is typically immediate. Payment can be made via credit card, and a convenience fee may apply.
To file by mail, send the completed Certificate of Formation to:
NJ Division of Revenue
P.O. Box 308
Trenton, NJ 08646For courier or hand delivery, use:
NJ Division of Revenue
33 West State Street
Trenton, NJ 08608Include one original and one copy of the form. Payment can be made by check payable to "Treasurer, State of New Jersey." Processing time is generally 3-10 business days.
The filing fee for the Certificate of Formation is $125. For the official fee schedule, visit the New Jersey Division of Revenue Fee Schedule. Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or credit card payments. All fees are non-refundable.
Once the Certificate of Formation is filed, the LLC is legally recognized as a business entity in New Jersey. The state will issue a Certificate of Formation as evidence of filing. The LLC must obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. Additionally, the LLC may need to register for state taxes with the New Jersey Division of Taxation. An operating agreement is recommended, though not required by law. The LLC must file an annual report with the New Jersey Division of Revenue and comply with any licensing or permit requirements.
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