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South Carolina LLC Formation: How to Start an LLC in South Carolina (2026)
Here is how to start an LLC in South Carolina: you file Articles of Organization with the South Carolina Secretary of State. South Carolina is one of the few states with no annual report for LLCs — your ongoing duty is simply maintaining a registered agent. We file it all for you, from anywhere in the world — no US visa, no SSN, no trip to the US.
South Carolina LLC at a Glance
How to Start an LLC in South Carolina: 6 Steps
- Pick a name and confirm it is available with the South Carolina Secretary of State.
- Name a South Carolina registered agent with a street address in the state.
- File the Articles of Organization with the South Carolina Secretary of State. The state fee is included in our package price.
- Get your EIN from the IRS after approval. Non-residents use Form SS-4, and we handle it.
- Keep a signed operating agreement with your company records.
- Stay in good standing: no annual report for most LLCs.
Our South Carolina LLC Package
One clear price. It covers the state filing fee, your EIN, a registered agent and a US mailing address for one year, plus our service. There are no separate fees to work out.
- LLC formation and state filing (state fee included)
- Articles of Organization
- South Carolina LLC certificate / formation documents
- EIN (federal tax ID) — with or without an SSN
- Registered agent for 1 year
- US mailing address for 1 year
- Operating agreement for banks and payment platforms
Optional add-ons: business bank account help (Mercury, Wise, Payoneer), Stripe setup, Amazon and Shopify setup. You choose them at checkout.
Forming Your LLC From Outside the US
You can form a South Carolina LLC from any country, without a US visa, an SSN or a trip to the US. Our non-resident LLC guide lists the documents we need, realistic timelines and what to expect from US banks in your country.
How Your Order Works
Order online or send us your LLC name on WhatsApp. We confirm the total, file with the South Carolina Secretary of State, apply for your EIN and send your documents by email and WhatsApp as each one is approved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming no report means no taxes. State and federal tax filings still apply.
- Spelling the LLC name differently on the EIN letter and bank application.
- Using a borrowed or virtual home address on your application. Banks check it against your ID.
South Carolina Ongoing Filings: What You Must Know
South Carolina is one of the few states with no annual report for LLCs. Your ongoing duty is maintaining a registered agent with a South Carolina address. We provide one for a full year and remind you at renewal.
Do You Need a Registered Agent in South Carolina?
Yes. A registered agent with a South Carolina street address is required for every LLC. It receives lawsuits and state mail for you. Ours is included for the first year.
Is South Carolina the Right State for Your LLC?
A good fit for businesses based in South Carolina. South Carolina does not require an annual report for most LLCs, which keeps yearly costs low. If you live outside the US and have no South Carolina connection, compare it with Wyoming and New Mexico before deciding.
South Carolina vs Other Popular States
| South Carolina | Wyoming | Delaware | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual filing | No annual report required | $60 annual report | $400 annual tax |
| State income tax | Yes | None | Yes, for DE income |
| Best for | Living or doing business in South Carolina | Low cost, privacy | Investors, Delaware law |
Compare in detail: Wyoming LLC · Delaware LLC
How LLCPronto Helps With Your South Carolina LLC
For $289, state fee included, we file your Articles of Organization, serve as your registered agent for the first year, apply for your EIN and track your South Carolina deadlines.
Yearly filing: see our South Carolina LLC annual report guide for the deadline, fee and how to file.
South Carolina LLC FAQs
How much does it cost to start an LLC in South Carolina?
After formation, there is no annual report to pay for. Our package costs $289 and already includes the state fee, your EIN, a registered agent and a US mailing address for one year.
How long does it take to form an LLC in South Carolina?
Online filings are usually approved within a few business days, though busy periods can take longer. Your EIN is ready within 24 hours of state approval, and bank account setup takes a few more days.
Can a non-US resident form a South Carolina LLC?
Yes. You don’t need to live in the US or have an SSN. You need a South Carolina registered agent, and we get your EIN from the IRS using Form SS-4.
Does South Carolina require an operating agreement?
South Carolina does not require you to file one, but you should have it. Banks and payment platforms often ask for it to confirm who owns the LLC.
Can I get an EIN for my South Carolina LLC without an SSN or ITIN?
Yes. Owners without an SSN apply with IRS Form SS-4. The EIN is included in our package.
Compare Other States
Ready to Form Your South Carolina LLC?
Send us your LLC name on WhatsApp. We confirm the full cost, file your Articles of Organization and set up your registered agent.