How it works
From order to EIN usually takes three to eight weeks, and most of that is waiting on the IRS. Here is each step, who does it, and how long it typically takes.
- Step 1You
You order
About 5 minutes
Company name, state, owners and package. You can do it on a phone. You create your dashboard account at the same time.
- Step 2LLCBolt
We check the name
Usually within 1 business day
We search the state register by hand. If the name is taken or too close to another, we message you to choose another one before anything is filed.
- Step 3LLCBolt
We file with the state
Usually within 1 to 2 business days of the name check
We submit your Articles of Organization and pay the state fee. With expedited filing we submit within one business day and pay for priority handling where the state offers it.
- Step 4The state
The state approves
Same day to a few weeks, depending on the state
The state reviews and approves the filing. Your stamped Articles appear in your dashboard the day we receive them. See the table below for each state.
- Step 5The IRS
We apply for your EIN
Typically 2 to 6 weeks without an SSN
We send Form SS-4 to the IRS once the state has approved. Without a US Social Security number this cannot be done online, so it goes by fax. We follow up if it runs long.
- Step 6You and the bank
You open a bank account
Depends on the bank
With the Articles, EIN letter, operating agreement and banking resolution you can apply to a US business bank or online account. The bank decides; we cannot guarantee approval.
Times are typical as of 2026, not guarantees. State agencies and the IRS slow down at busy times of year, especially January to April.
State approval times
| State | Typical approval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | 1–3 business days | Wyoming does not sell a paid expedite. Online filing is already quick. |
| Delaware | 3–5 business days | Delaware sells paid priority options, from 24-hour up to same-day and one-hour service. Our Complete package uses priority handling where it helps. |
| New Mexico | 2–4 business days | New Mexico does not sell a paid expedite for LLC formation. |
| Florida | 2–5 business days | Florida does not sell a general paid expedite for online filings. |
| Texas | 3–5 business days | Texas offers a paid expedite for filings. |
| Nevada | 1–3 business days | Nevada sells 24-hour, 2-hour and 1-hour expedite options. |
| Colorado | Same day | Not needed. Online filing is effective on submission. |
| Arizona | 5–10 business days | Arizona sells a paid expedite that usually shortens review to a few business days. |
Every year after
State report or tax
Depends on the state: from nothing at all (New Mexico, Arizona) to an annual list and business license (Nevada).
IRS Form 5472
Every foreign-owned single-member LLC files it by April 15, even with no income. A tax preparer does this; we remind you.
Registered agent renewal
Every 12 months, so the state always has an address for official mail.
The full checklist is in keeping your LLC in good standing.
Start with step one
It takes about five minutes, and you see every step after that in your dashboard.