How to Form an S-Corporation in Washington State
Washington State is a region located in the far northwest of the continental U.S. Over half of the state’s population lives in and around the Seattle area. The state combines centers of business and industry with beautiful landscapes and welcoming people.
When forming an S-Corporation in Washington State, you must complete the following requirements:
- Select a business name according to requirements
- File articles of incorporation and submit filing fees
- Fulfill registered agent requirements
- Register your federal tax ID
- Complete annual reports
- Appoint Directors
Let Eco-fyle help you fullfil your business needs.
Select Business Name According to State Requirements
• Name Requirements: Your business name must be unique and cannot be similar to the name of a corporation or LLC in Washington.
o Must include one of the following:
• “Incorporated”
• “Corporation”
• “Limited”
• “Company”
File Articles of Incorporation and Submit Filing Fees
• Required Documents:
o The incorporator signs and files the articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State.
o There must be at least one incorporator, either a natural person of legal age or a corporation.
o The incorporator is not required to be a director, shareholder, or officer, but they may be.
o The articles must include the name and address of the initial registered agent, who must sign the articles, acknowledging acceptance of the appointment.
o The articles must specify the number of shares the corporation is authorized to issue.
• Processing Time: Standard processing time takes up to 15 business days; expedited processing is 5 business days.
• Filing Fee: $200
• Washington LLC formations are also required to complete a First Report
Fulfill Registered Agent Service Requirements
• If the Registered Agent is an individual person, their residence must be in Washington.
• If the Registered Agent is a business, they must be able to conduct business in Washington.
• The Registered Agent must have a physical street address in Washington, not a P.O. Box.
• They must also be available in person during normal business hours to sign for any correspondence.
Register Your Federal Tax ID Number
• An EIN is required for corporations that will have employees.
• Additionally, all businesses are required to obtain a state tax identification number by filing the Washington State Tax ID Form.
Complete Annual Reports
• Annual Report Deadline: Last day of anniversary month of incorporation.
• Filing Fee: $60
Appoint Directors
Minimum Requirement: Must have one or more directors.
Request a free consultation
The team at Eco-fyle is eager to meet you and help you pursue your goals of
incorporation. Request a consultation with one of our specialists!