Start a Business in New Mexico

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This guide on starting your business in New Mexico provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.

how to start a business

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 New Mexico, click here.
Structure Paperwork Cost Time

New Mexico Limited Liability Company

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  • Form DLLC: Limited Liability Company Articles of Organization
  • Form DLLC-STMNT: Statement of Acceptance of Appointment by Designated Initial Registered Agent
  • Operating Agreement
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form ACD-31015: Application for Business Tax Identification Number
  • Formation: $50 + optional $100-150 expedite fee
  • Formation: ~3 months. ~2 business days for $100 expedite fee. ~1 business day for $150 expedite fee.

New Mexico Corporation

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  • Form DPR: Profit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Form D-STMNT: Statement of Acceptance of Appointment by Designated Initial Registered Agent
  • Initial Corporate Report
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form 2553: S-Corp Election, if desired
  • Form ACD-31015: Application for Business Tax Identification Number
  • Incorporation: $100 for up to $100,000 authorized shares + optional $100-150 expedite fee
  • Initial Corporate Report: $25
  • Incorporation: ~3 months. ~2 business days for $100 expedite fee. ~1 business day for $150 expedite fee.

New Mexico Nonprofit

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  • Form DNP: Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Domestic Nonprofit Corporation Initial Report
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form ACD-31015: Application for Business Tax Identification Number
  • Form ACD-31050: Application for Nontaxable Transaction Certificates
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • NM-COROS Charitable Registration
  • Incorporation: $25 + optional $100-150 expedite fee
  • Initial Report: $10
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • New Mexico charitable registration: $0
  • Incorporation: ~3 months. ~2 business days for $100 expedite fee. ~1 business day for $150 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in New Mexico

  1. We recommend paying the expedite fee on your formation. If you don't, you could be waiting 3+ months for approval form the New Mexico Secretary of State. You can get a response in ~2 business days for a $100 expedite fee. Expedite fees require a separate check or money order, or your document will be immediately rejected.
  2. You must file with the New Mexico Secretary of State signed original, one copy, registered agent statement, and filing fee.
  3. The New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department will issue your LLC a CRS Identification Number, an 11-digit number also known as a business tax identification number.
  4. Corporations must file an initial report within 30 days of incorporation. An officer must file the report. LLCs do not have this requirement.
  5. Corporations must file a biennial report (every two-years). LLCs don't file any report.
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