How to move an LLC to another state.
Moving an LLC across state lines is called "domestication" or "conversion." Done right, your LLC keeps its EIN, its bank account, its contracts, and its tax history while becoming a citizen of the new state. Done wrong, you create a new entity and leave the old one to die slowly under unpaid annual reports. This guide walks through the three methods, which states allow which, and our flat-fee domestication service.
Step by step.
Statutory domestication requires both the origin state AND the destination state to have domestication statutes. About 30 states do. Where unavailable, use merger or dissolve-and-reform.
Approve domestication per operating agreement. Document with written consent or minutes.
New state accepts the LLC, issues new entity record, retains original formation date in some states.
Origin state releases the LLC. Some states require tax clearance first.
Origin state Registered Agent terminated; destination state Registered Agent appointed. We provide free for first year.
Form 8822-B notifies the IRS of address change. Same EIN, new state of operation.
Address change for the entity is a reportable event. 30-day window.
Bank, payment processors, contracts, leases, licenses. Many require notice of state change.
What to avoid.
LLC remains active in the origin state if you only file in the destination. Origin state continues charging annual fees and expects filings until withdrawal is processed.
Dissolve-and-reform breaks contract continuity, requires new EIN, and triggers tax complications. Use statutory domestication or merger where possible.
Many contracts have governing law clauses tied to formation state. Some clients require notice of any entity-state change. Review key contracts before moving.
If your LLC is qualified in multiple states beyond origin and destination, each foreign qualification needs review (often unchanged, sometimes requires re-registration).
Some states require final state income tax return in origin state. Some require updated state tax registration in destination. Specialty CPAs review.
Common questions.
Why move an LLC to another state?
Which states allow statutory domestication?
What if my origin or destination state does not allow domestication?
Does my EIN change?
What about my bank account?
Do my contracts survive?
Will I owe state tax in both states for the transition year?
How long does domestication take?
Do I need to file BOI?
Ready when you are.
Tell us a few details. We file with the state, handle the paperwork, and notify you when complete.
On the $129/yr Compliance Annual Filings plan, we cover state late fees.
When you autofile your annual report through the $129/yr plan and we miss the deadline, we pay the state's late fee. The guarantee applies to that specific plan and the filings it includes. Other File.Business services are billed at the prices on this page.