Articles of organization
The document filed with a state to create an LLC, called a certificate of formation in some states.
Articles of organization are the filing that creates an LLC. The state's approval of them is the LLC's legal start date. Some states use another name: Texas and Delaware call it a certificate of formation.
The form is usually short: the LLC's name, its address, the registered agent, and whether members or managers run it. Ownership shares and profit splits aren't on it. Those belong in the operating agreement.
Fees vary. For a standard filing, California charges $70 for Form LLC-1, Ohio $99, New York $200 and Texas $300 for Form 205, according to each state's filing pages, which StructureCost lists on its state pages. The California Secretary of State FAQ also requires a Statement of Information within 90 days of forming.
Some states add steps. New York Section 206 requires a new LLC to publish notice in two newspapers for six weeks within 120 days, or lose its authority to do business there until it does.
After the state approves, get an EIN from the IRS.