Start a Business in Rhode Island
Helpful Tools
LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp?
Choose which one is right for you.
Limiting Your Liability
Do you need liability insurance, limited liability protection, or both?
Welcome to Our Community
We're committed to publishing free informational resources such as this how-to guide. Our resources have been shared by important industry organizations including:
This guide on starting your business in Rhode Island provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.
Step-By-Step Startup
Below is an overview of the paperwork, cost, and time to form each of the most popular business structures. Simply click on the link for your desired structure to view detailed step-by-step instructions.
- If you have not decided whether you want to form an LLC, corporation, or other business structure, click here.
- If wish to form your business in a different state than Rhode Island, click here.
| Structure | Paperwork | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Rhode Island Limited Liability Company Click for step-by-step instructions |
|
|
|
|
Rhode Island Corporation Click for step-by-step instructions |
|
|
|
|
Rhode Island Nonprofit Click for step-by-step instructions |
|
|
|
Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Rhode Island
- Your name must end with an approved corporate designator. We'll explain your options and how to conduct a name search.
- Rhode Island offers a combined registration application for retail sales, income tax withholding, and unemployment insurance. Apply for all other tax accounts / licenses / permits individually.
- Appointing a registered agent is required for LLCs and corporations. Not all business owners will be able to serve as their own registered agent. We'll detail what it takes. Rhode Island uses the terms registered agent and resident agent interchangeably.
- Corporations and LLCs are obligated to file an annual report with the Rhode Island Secretary of State. The form is mailed from the Rhode Island Secretary of State to your registered address two weeks prior to your filing period.
- Rhode Island is a relatively easy state to register your business. The process, forms, and fees are all reasonable. Know that one day when you expand your business to another state, the process (foreign registration) may be more challenging.
