LLCforPennsylvania LLC Guide for Veterans
- Filing fee: $125 for a Certificate of Organization
- Annual report: $7 annual report, filed between January 1 and September 30 each year starting the year after you form.
- Veteran benefit: Yes: business filing fees waived. Pennsylvania's Department of State waives business filing fees for starting a business, including the $125 Certificate of Organization fee, for small businesses owned and controlled by veterans or reservists.
- Who qualifies: Small businesses owned and controlled by veterans (other-than-dishonorable discharge) or current reservists.
- Last verified: October 11, 2026
5-year cost calculator
Your cost is the Without waiver total.
| Year | Item | Without waiver | With waiver |
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Who qualifies
The business must be a small business: independently owned, not dominant in its field, and with 100 or fewer employees. It must be owned and controlled by one or more veterans or reservists. A veteran means someone discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. A reservist is a current member of a reserve component or National Guard unit. The veteran or reservist signs the filing and includes proof such as a DD-214, NGB-22, VA card, or DoD military ID.
Steps
Pick a name
Search the Pennsylvania Department of State, Business records to make sure your name is available. It usually must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company."
Choose a registered agent
This is the person or company that receives legal papers for your LLC in Pennsylvania. You can be your own agent if you have an address in the state.
File your formation document
File with the Pennsylvania Department of State, Business. Include your veteran fee waiver paperwork with the filing.
Get your EIN and set up
Get a free EIN from the IRS, write an operating agreement, and open a business bank account. See our Start an LLC guide.
Keep it in good standing
Put your annual report date on your calendar so the state doesn't dissolve your LLC.
FAQ
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Pennsylvania?
$125 for a Certificate of Organization
Does Pennsylvania waive LLC fees for veterans?
Yes: business filing fees waived. Pennsylvania's Department of State waives business filing fees for starting a business, including the $125 Certificate of Organization fee, for small businesses owned and controlled by veterans or reservists.
Do I need a lawyer?
No law requires one to file, but if your situation is complicated a lawyer or accountant can help.