How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in South Carolina?

How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in South Carolina?

You can form an LLC in South Carolina by filing either online or by mail.

South Carolina LLC Processing Times

Normal Processing Time Expedited Processing Time
South Carolina LLC by Mail 3-4 business days (plus mail time) Not available
South Carolina LLC Online 1-2 business days Not available

What is LLC processing time?

This is the time required for the state of South Carolina to review and process your LLC filing. Once approved, the state will mail your approved documents electronically.

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South Carolina LLC Approval Processing Times

By online or By mail

For mail filings, South Carolina LLC approvals generally take about 3-4 weeks. This includes the 5-10 days processing time and the duration it takes for your documents to be mailed.


For online filings, South Carolina LLCs are approved for 1-2 business days. You can download your documents as soon as they are approved, so there is no additional transit time.


What is LLC approval time?

This is the total time required to get your LLC approved, including the processing and transit times for documents to and from the state.

Expedited LLC Processing in South Carolina

South Carolina doesn’t offer expedited filing options for LLCs. Online filings take 1-2 business days, while mail filings take approximately 4 weeks.

What is the fastest method to form an LLC in South Carolina?

The fastest way to form an LLC in South Carolina is to file online yourself. This method offers the fastest approval time, as the filing system issues your LLC approval almost immediately.

Should I hire an LLC filing service in South Carolina?

Hiring an LLC filing service won’t speed up the approval process. Filing companies still need to wait for the state to approve your LLC.

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Consider hiring a professional to set up your LLC: Northwest Registered Agent offers LLC formation services starting at $39 plus the state fee.
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However, the advantage of hiring a filing company is not to speed up LLC approval, but to have someone handle the paperwork for you and ensure it is filed correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an LLC cost?

Requirement Cost
LLC Name $0
Registered Agent $0 or $125 per year
Articles of Organization $110
Operating Agreement $0 (free on our site)
EIN Number $0 (free to the IRS)
Annual Report $0
Taxes varies (filed and/or paid every year)

For further details on LLC expenses, Explore the specifics of LLC costs in South Carolina.

How to start an LLC in South Carolina?

To start an LLC in South Carolina, follow these steps:

  1. Choose an LLC Name
  2. Select a Registered Agent
  3. File the Articles of Organization
  4. Create an Operating Agreement
  5. Get an EIN

For more information, see our detailed overview on starting an LLC in South Carolina.

How long does it take to get an LLC in every state?

The processing time for an LLC can vary by state. Faster processing in one state might not necessarily be beneficial if you need to register your LLC as a foreign LLC in your home state. Be sure to consider all factors, including where you live and conduct business, before deciding on the state of formation.