Start a Business in West Virginia

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This guide on starting your business in West Virginia 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 West Virginia, click here.
Structure Paperwork Cost Time

West Virginia Limited Liability Company

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  • Form LLD-1: West Virginia Articles of Organization of a Limited Liability Company
  • Operating Agreement
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form WV/BUS-APP: West Virginia Office of Business Registration
  • Formation: $100
  • WV Business Registration: $30
  • Formation: ~1-2 business days mail or online.

West Virginia Corporation

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  • Form CD-1: West Virginia Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form 2553: S-Corp Election, if desired
  • Form WV/BUS-APP: West Virginia Office of Business Registration
  • Incorporation: $50
  • State tax registration: $30.
  • Incorporation: ~1-2 business days mail or online.

West Virginia Nonprofit

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  • Form CD-1NP: West Virginia Articles of Incorporation with Non-Profit IRS Attachment
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form WV/BUS-APP: West Virginia Office of Business Registration
  • Form F0003: Certificate of Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form CHR-1: West Virginia Registration Statement of Charitable Organizations, if not exempt
  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • West Virginia charitable registration: $15-50 ($0 if exempt)
  • Incorporation: ~1-2 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in West Virginia

  1. File with the West Virginia Secretary of State by mail the original and one copy that will be returned to you.
  2. A corporate suffix is required in your business name (for an LLC or corporation).
  3. Appointing a registered agent is required. We'll help you figure out if you can serve as your own agent.
  4. Corporations and LLCs must file an annual report with the West Virginia Secretary of State.
  5. The registration process in West Virginia is relatively friendly compared to other states. The process, forms, and fees are not too intimidating. Should your business expand go another state (e.g. Maryland), anticipate a greater challenge getting registered.
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