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Free Reference Guide · 2026

Tennessee LLC Formation Guide

Key fees, step-by-step instructions, and important deadlines — specific to Tennessee. Sourced from official state and court websites.

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Tennessee LLC Formation — Key Numbers

$300
Formation fee
$300
Annual report fee
$100/yr
Franchise tax
No
Publication req.
5 days
Standard processing
Tennessee note
Tennessee has a $300 annual report fee AND a minimum franchise/excise tax — one of the pricier states to maintain.

Step-by-Step: LLC Formation in Tennessee

  1. 1

    Choose a unique business name and check availability on the Tennessee Secretary of State website.

  2. 2

    File your Articles of Organization / Certificate of Organization with Tennessee (fee: $300).

  3. 3

    Appoint a registered agent (a person or service with a physical address in the state).

  4. 4

    Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS — free at irs.gov.

  5. 5

    Draft or adopt an LLC Operating Agreement — required by banks and most states.

  6. 6

    File your first annual report ($300/year) by the deadline.

  7. 7

    Open a separate business bank account — never mix personal and business funds.

Data sourced from official Tennessee government and court websites. Updated May 2026. Always verify current fees with your local courthouse before filing.

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