How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in Tennessee?

How Long Does It Take to Form an LLC in Tennessee?

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

Tennessee LLC Processing Times

Normal Processing Time Expedited Processing Time
Tennessee LLC by Mail 3-5 business days (plus mail time) Not available
Tennessee LLC Online immediately Not available

What is LLC processing time?

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

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Tennessee LLC Approval Processing Times

By online or By mail

For mail filings, Tennessee LLC approvals generally take about 2-3 weeks. This includes the 3-5 business days processing time and the duration it takes for your documents to be mailed.


For online filings, Tennessee LLCs are approved immediately. 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 Tennessee

Tennessee doesn’t have expedited options for online LLC filings, but it’s not an issue because online filings are usually approved on the same day.

Although Tennessee doesn’t offer an “official” expedited option for mail filings, you can use a slightly complex method that the state will accept:

  • You can overnight your filing to the state and include a prepaid overnight envelope.
  • The state will use this envelope to return your approved LLC documents.
  • This shortens mail time from weeks to days, which gets your LLC approved faster.
  • You can use any shipping method, like USPS, FedEx, or UPS.
  • The shipping cost depends on how fast you want your documents back.
  • Pay for an overnight envelope that can hold 3 ounces (oz).

What is the fastest method to form an LLC in Tennessee?

The fastest way to form an LLC in Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

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 $300
Operating Agreement $0 (free on our site)
EIN Number $0 (free to the IRS)
Annual Report $300
Taxes varies (filed and/or paid every year)

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

How to start an LLC in Tennessee?

To start an LLC in Tennessee, 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
  6. Register for Business Tax

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

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.