How to Start an LLC in Wyoming: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Wyoming has earned a reputation as one of the most business-friendly states in America, especially for entrepreneurs, e-commerce founders, and cross-border businesses.

Why? Because Wyoming offers everything small business owners love: no state income tax, strong privacy protections, and low annual fees. 

It’s also one of the few states that allow anonymous LLC ownership, which means your personal details stay private while your company remains fully compliant.

Wyoming LLC gives you limited liability, credibility, and access to financial systems without the high costs found in states like California or New York. 

This makes it an ideal choice for remote business owners and global entrepreneurs who want a U.S. presence without having to live there.

In this Wyoming LLC guide for 2025, you’ll learn exactly how to start an LLC in Wyoming step-by-step. 

At doola, we cover everything you need to legally form and manage your LLC, from picking your business name to filing with the Secretary of State and getting your EIN.

Why Choose Wyoming for Your LLC

If you’re looking for simplicity, privacy, and tax savings, Wyoming LLC formation is a low-cost, high-benefit option for entrepreneurs who value efficiency and long-term protection.

1. No State Income Tax

Wyoming is one of the few states that doesn’t tax personal or corporate income. This means your LLC profits stay in your business (or your pocket) rather than going to the state. 

2. Strong Privacy Protection (Anonymous Ownership)

Unlike many states, Wyoming allows anonymous LLC formation. That means your personal name and address don’t appear in public state records. Only your registered agent’s details do.

3. Low Annual Fees and Simple Compliance

The state filing fee is just $100, and the annual report fee starts at $60, depending on your assets located in Wyoming. There are no hidden renewal costs or complex reporting requirements.

4. Asset Protection and Legal Flexibility

In Wyoming, your personal assets, like your home, savings, or car, are shielded from business debts and lawsuits. The state also allows single-member LLCs, offering flexibility for solopreneurs and small teams without sacrificing protection.

This unique combination of benefits makes Wyoming LLC ideal for:

• U.S. founders who want an easy, tax-efficient state to register their business in.

• International entrepreneurs who want to legally operate in the U.S. without needing to reside there.

• E-commerce sellers, consultants, and online businesses who need a trusted state for formation, banking, and compliance.

• Investors and holding companies seeking privacy and low-maintenance legal protection.

How to Start an LLC in Wyoming: Step-by-Step

The process of Wyoming LLC formation is straightforward, especially compared to other states. But to save you the research, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

Each step includes practical guidance, compliance tips, and insights about how to start an LLC in Wyoming quickly and efficiently in 2025.

Step 1: Choose a Name for Your Wyoming LLC

Your LLC name is more than just a label. It’s the foundation of your business identity. Choosing the right name and ensuring it meets Wyoming’s legal requirements is the first step toward registering your company successfully.

When choosing your business name, make sure it follows these state guidelines:

• It must include “Limited Liability Company” or one of its abbreviations: “LLC” or “L.L.C.”

• It must be unique and distinguishable from other registered entities in Wyoming.

• It can’t include words that may confuse your business with a government agency (like “FBI,” “Treasury,” or “State Department”).

💡 Pro tip: Keep your name professional and easy to remember. It’s often the first thing customers and partners will see.

Before filing paperwork to register your name, run a Wyoming LLC name search using the Wyoming Secretary of State’s Business Name Search Tool.

This early prevents delays or rejections and also gives you time to secure matching domain names and social media handles for your business, a smart move for branding and marketing.

Review existing business names for duplicates or similar variations. If you’re not ready to file yet, you can reserve your business name for 120 days.

All you need to do is submit an Application for Reservation of Name and pay a $60 fee to ensure no one else takes your chosen name while you finalize your LLC setup.

🔖 Related Read: How to Name Your LLC | The International Founder’s Ultimate Guide

Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent in Wyoming

Every Wyoming LLC is legally required to have a registered agent to receive official documents and legal correspondence on behalf of your business. 

Without a registered agent, your LLC can lose its good standing, lose its limited liability protection, or even face administrative dissolution.

Think of your registered agent as your business’s official point of contact with the state. They ensure that your business never misses critical notices such as:

• Tax reminders or compliance updates from the Secretary of State

• Legal documents like lawsuits or subpoenas (known as “service of process”)

• Annual report notifications and renewal deadlines

The state requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a physical address in Wyoming. They must be available during business hours at the same address to receive mail and legal notices.

This gives you two options: be your own registered agent or hire a professional registered agent service.

You can serve as your own agent if you have a physical street address in the state. However, your personal address becomes public record, which limits privacy.

Using a professional service like doola keeps your personal information private, handles compliance notices, scans and forwards official mail, and helps ensure you never miss a deadline.

Step 3: File Your Articles of Organization

The Wyoming LLC Articles of Organization are the foundational legal document that registers your business with the state as a separate legal entity. 

Without this filing, your LLC isn’t officially recognized by the state, meaning you can’t open a business bank account, apply for an EIN, or legally operate your business.

You can file your Wyoming LLC online through the Wyoming Secretary of State’s Business Division or submit your paperwork by mail.

• Online filing is the fastest and most common method. It takes about 15–30 minutes, and once approved, you’ll receive immediate confirmation.

• You can download, print, and mail the completed form to the Secretary of State’s office.  Mail processing typically takes 3–5 business days after receipt.

The fee to file the Articles of Organization is $100, with a potential additional $4 convenience fee for online filing, bringing the total to $104. 

There is also an annual report license tax of at least $60 per year, which may be higher if the company has significant assets.

When completing your Articles of Organization, you’ll need to provide:

• LLC Name: Must meet Wyoming naming rules and match your approved name.

• Business Address: Can be your principal office or mailing address.

• Registered Agent Information: Include the name and physical address of your Wyoming registered agent.

• Organizer Details: The person completing the filing (can be you or a service provider).

• Signature: Digital or handwritten, depending on the filing method.

Double-check all entries before submitting. Mistakes in your Articles may delay approval or require a refile. Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Organization, confirming your Wyoming LLC formation.

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

An Operating Agreement acts as your company’s internal rulebook, outlining ownership structure, decision-making powers, and how profits or losses are distributed among members.

Without one, your business will default to Wyoming’s general LLC laws, which might not reflect how you actually want to operate your company.

Even if you’re a single-member LLC, this document provides proof that your business is separate from you personally, reinforcing liability protection. It also helps you:

✔️ Clarify ownership percentages and member roles

✔️ Define how profits, expenses, and losses are shared

✔️ Establish clear voting rights and responsibilities

✔️ Create a process for resolving disputes or onboarding new members

✔️ Show professionalism to investors, partners, and banks

When creating your Operating Agreement, make sure it covers these essentials:

• Business details: LLC name, principal address, and effective date

• Ownership structure: Each member’s ownership percentage and contribution

• Management setup: Whether your LLC is member-managed or manager-managed

• Voting and decision-making: How major business decisions are approved

• Profit distribution: How and when profits are shared among members

• Transfer rules: What happens if a member leaves or sells their share

• Dissolution process: Steps for closing the business if necessary

Remember to keep the language simple and avoid legal jargon to ensure every member understands it.

Before starting, research and review Wyoming’s LLC laws to ensure compliance and store a signed copy with your LLC records (it’s not filed with the state).

Form your LLC with a business formation service like doola, which provides templates and guidance tailored for Wyoming LLCs, and keep a digitally-stored copy for seamless EIN application and a business bank account.

🔖 Related Read: How to Fill Out Your Operating Agreement for Your Multi-Member LLC

Step 5: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Think of your EIN as your company’s social security number. It’s used to identify your business for tax purposes, open a bank account, and hire employees legally.

Even single-member LLCs benefit from having an EIN since it adds legitimacy and simplifies financial management, especially when dealing with vendors or payment platforms.

• Tax filing and reporting: The IRS requires all multi-member LLCs and any LLC with employees to have an EIN.

• Opening a business bank account: Most U.S. banks won’t let you open an account without one.

• Hiring employees: You’ll need an EIN to handle payroll taxes and report employment information.

• Building business credit: An EIN helps separate your personal and business finances, strengthening your company’s financial profile.

Getting an EIN is quick, simple, and free. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Go to the IRS EIN application page. You can also apply by fax or mail, but online filing is much faster.
2. Select “Limited Liability Company (LLC)” as your entity type.
3. Fill out the SS-4 form with your Wyoming LLC’s details, including your business name, address, and responsible party information.
4. You can submit the application online during IRS business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST).
5. You’ll receive your EIN immediately after approval in a downloadable confirmation letter.

🔖 Related Read: Start Your U.S. Business Right: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an EIN

Getting an EIN Without a Social Security Number (SSN)

If you’re a non-U.S. founder forming a Wyoming LLC, you can still get an EIN even if you don’t have a Social Security Number. 

You’ll need to fill out Form SS-4 manually, write “Foreign” in the SSN/ITIN field, and submit the form to the IRS via fax or mail.

This process can take several weeks, but doola simplifies it for international entrepreneurs by handling the EIN application on your behalf. No SSN required.

Step 6: File for Business Licenses and Tax Registrations

While Wyoming is famously light on red tape, there are still a few rules you need to follow depending on your location and industry.

One of the biggest advantages of Wyoming LLCs is that the state does not require a general business license. 

That means once your LLC is formed and you’ve obtained an EIN, you can start operating without having to apply for a state-level license. 

Even though there’s no state license, some Wyoming cities and counties require local permits or business registrations, depending on your business activity. For example:

• Retail stores or restaurants may need a city business permit or a health inspection certificate.

• Home-based businesses require a zoning permit or local authorization.

• Businesses with employees may need to register for unemployment insurance or workers’ compensation through the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services.

Visit the city website or contact the county clerk’s office to confirm what’s required for your business type and location.

If your business operates in specific regulated sectors, you may also need federal permits. A full list of federal license requirements is available at sba.gov.

Wyoming doesn’t impose a state income tax, but your LLC may still need to register for specific taxes, such as:

• Sales tax: If you sell goods or taxable services in Wyoming, register with the Wyoming Department of Revenue.

• Employment taxes: If you have employees, you’ll need to withhold and remit payroll taxes.

• Federal taxes: All LLCs must meet IRS filing requirements annually, depending on whether they’re taxed as single-member, multi-member, or corporations.

Step 7: Maintain Your Wyoming LLC (Annual Requirements)

Wyoming’s ongoing requirements are simple compared to most states, which is one of the biggest benefits of a Wyoming LLC for entrepreneurs. 

With just one annual report, a small fee, and a few basic compliance practices, you can keep your business in good standing year after year.

This report confirms your company’s contact details, registered agent information, and the value of assets located in the state. It’s a straightforward process that takes only a few minutes online.

👉🏼 Due date: The annual report is due every year on the first day of the month your LLC was initially formed.

👉🏼 Filing fee: $60, or $0.0002 per dollar of assets located in Wyoming (whichever is greater).

👉🏼 Where to file: You can submit your report through the Wyoming Secretary of State Annual Report Filing Portal.

In addition to filing your annual report, here are a few other key steps to keep your LLC compliant and protected:

1. Keep your registered agent updated: If you change your registered agent or their address, notify the Secretary of State immediately by filing an update.

2. Maintain accurate business records: Keep copies of your Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, EIN confirmation, and financial statements. 

3. Separate business and personal finances: Always maintain a dedicated business bank account. Mixing personal and business expenses can jeopardize your limited liability protection and complicate tax filings.

4. Stay compliant with taxes and licenses: Even though Wyoming doesn’t have a state income tax, you still need to meet federal tax obligations and renew any local or industry-specific licenses your business holds.

Bonus: How Much Does It Cost to Start a Wyoming LLC?

If you’re wondering how much to form an LLC in Wyoming, the answer is not much. 

With its low fees, no income tax, and minimal paperwork, Wyoming offers some of the best long-term value for business owners in the U.S. or abroad.

👉🏼 State Filing Fee: When you submit your Articles of Organization to the Wyoming Secretary of State, you’ll pay $100 for paper filing and $104 for online filings (including the $4 credit card fee).

👉🏼 Registered Agent Fee: If you live in Wyoming, you can serve as your own agent for free. If you live outside the state, you’ll need a professional registered agent service, which typically costs $50–$150 per year.

👉🏼 Optional Name Reservation Fee: If you’re not ready to file your LLC immediately but want to secure your business name, you can reserve it for 120 days by filing a Name Reservation Application for a $60 fee.

👉🏼 Annual Report Fee: The cost depends on the total value of your assets located in Wyoming. The minimum fee is $60 or $0.0002 per dollar of assets located in the state.

So, if you’re forming a standard Wyoming LLC online, your total initial cost is typically between $150 and $250, with annual maintenance fees of around $60–$150 per year. This is a great deal compared to other states.

How doola Helps You Start and Manage Your Wyoming LLC

Starting a Wyoming LLC is just the beginning. Maintaining it correctly ensures long-term protection, tax savings, and peace of mind. 

With doola, you get more than just formation. You get a partner for growth. We helps both U.S. and international founders launch and maintain their businesses without the legal or administrative headaches.

🚀 Company Formation & Filing

🚀 Registered Agent Services

🚀 EIN & Tax Compliance Support

🚀 Ongoing Bookkeeping & Tax Filing

Ready to launch, manage, and scale your US business from anywhere in the world?

Start your Wyoming LLC with doola today.

FAQs

Do I need to live in Wyoming to start an LLC there?

No, you don’t need to live in Wyoming to start an LLC. The only requirement is that your LLC must have a registered agent with a physical address in Wyoming to receive official mail and legal notices.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Wyoming?

If you file your Articles of Organization online, your LLC is usually approved instantly or within 1 business day. Mail filings take a bit longer, usually 3–5 business days after receipt. 

Can non-U.S. citizens form a Wyoming LLC?

Yes. Non-U.S. citizens and non-residents can legally form and own a Wyoming LLC. You’ll just need a registered agent in the state and an EIN, which doola can help you obtain even if you don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN).

What taxes does a Wyoming LLC pay?

Wyoming is known for its business-friendly environment due to:

• No state income tax: LLC profits are not taxed at the state level.

• No franchise tax: You won’t pay ongoing corporate taxes like in other states.

• Federal taxes: Your LLC still needs to file with the IRS, based on whether it’s a single-member or multi-member entity.

• Sales tax: If your business sells taxable goods or services in Wyoming, you’ll need to register for sales tax with the Wyoming Department of Revenue.

Is a Wyoming LLC anonymous?

Yes, your name and personal details don’t appear in public state records. Instead, only your registered agent’s information is listed. 

This feature makes Wyoming especially popular with entrepreneurs who value privacy and asset protection.

How do I open a business bank account for my Wyoming LLC?

Once your LLC is formed and you’ve received your EIN, you can open a U.S. business bank account. Many banks allow you to apply in person, while fintech options like Mercury let you open accounts online.

What happens if I don’t file my annual report on time?

Your business will fall out of good standing. You may incur late fees, lose liability protection, or even face administrative dissolution by the Secretary of State.