Start a Business in Vermont
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 Vermont 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 Vermont, click here.
| Structure | Paperwork | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Vermont Limited Liability Company Click for step-by-step instructions |
|
|
|
|
Vermont Corporation Click for step-by-step instructions |
|
|
|
|
Vermont Nonprofit Click for step-by-step instructions |
|
|
|
Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Vermont
- Filing your formation documents in Vermont is relatively friendly. To create an LLC or corporation, filing with the Vermont Secretary of State will cost $125 and processing will take 5-7 business days.
- Vermont uses the following terms interchangeably: registered agent, resident agent, and statutory agent. They all refer to the individual or business appointed to receive notice of lawsuit and government notices for your business. We'll explain how to appoint your registered agent. The agent must be listed on your formation documents.
- Remember to include a corporate designator like "corp" or "llc" in your business name. In Vermont, this is required. There are a short list of designators approved. We'll explain your options.
- Vermont offers a consolidated state tax registration application for new businesses. Not all states do and this is a great convenience.
- Both corporations and LLCs are required to file an annual report with the Vermont Secretary of State. Notice is mailed from the Vermont Secretary of State to your registered agent. Nonprofits file biennially.
