Start a Business in Hawaii
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LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp?
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This guide on starting your business in Hawaii provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.
Step-By-Step Startup
Below is an overview of the paperwork, cost, and time to form each of the most popular business structures. Simply click on the link for your desired structure to view detailed step-by-step instructions.
- If you have not decided whether you want to form an LLC, corporation, or other business structure, click here.
- If wish to form your business in a different state than Hawaii, click here.
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Hawaii Limited Liability Company Click for step-by-step instructions |
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Hawaii Corporation Click for step-by-step instructions |
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Hawaii Nonprofit Click for step-by-step instructions |
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Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Hawaii
- The main registration authority has a long name - State of Hawaii - Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs (DCCA) - Business Registration Division. You'll hear the acronym DCCA for the department and BREG for their online system.
- Hawaii requires the use of a corporate designator such as "LLC" or "Corporation". We will provide the short list of acceptable designators for your business structure.
- Formation can take from 1 business day to 2 weeks, depending on the method of filing and whether you are willing to pay the state fee for expedited processing.
- Corporate records must be stored at the principal office unless the board of directors specifically resolve they are held at an alternate location. Hawaii has a specific list of the required records for corporations.
- Hawaii is a friendly state in which to register - the process, forms, and instructions are helpful. The fees are reasonable. If your business one day expands to another state (called foreign registration), anticipate the process may be more challenging.
