# What are articles of organization?

Source: https://joinopenfile.com/guides/articles-of-organization
Index: https://joinopenfile.com/llms.txt

Articles of organization are the document you file with a state to create an LLC. The LLC legally exists once the state accepts the filing, unless you ask for a later date. Some states use a different name for the same form, such as certificate of formation in Texas and Delaware.

Updated November 1, 2026

## What the form asks for

It's usually short, and the requirements differ by state. Delaware asks for the least: the LLC's name and its registered office and agent. Florida adds the company's principal office address and the agent's written acceptance. Texas also wants the name and address of each initial manager or member, plus an organizer.

Most forms ask for some version of these: the LLC name with a required ending, a registered agent with a street address in the state, whether members or managers run the company, and the signature of the person filing. Decide [who manages the company](https://joinopenfile.com/guides/managing-member) before you file, because what you write here should match your operating agreement.

## What it's called in your state

New York, California, Florida and Kentucky say articles of organization. Texas and Delaware say certificate of formation. Massachusetts says certificate of organization. The document does the same job under each name. State pages like [Florida](https://joinopenfile.com/llc/florida) and [New York](https://joinopenfile.com/llc/new-york) show what applies where you are.

## What it costs

The state sets the fee. Kentucky charges $40, Wyoming $100, Delaware $110 and Texas $300. Nevada's articles cost $75, but you also owe $350 at the start for the initial list and state business license. [Every state's fee](https://joinopenfile.com/llc/cost) is on one page. Faster handling usually costs extra.

## After you file

Anything on the form usually becomes public record. If you don't want your home address online, think about that before you list it. Keep the approved copy, because the SBA says banks commonly ask for your formation documents.

A few states add a step. New York gives you 120 days to publish notice of formation in two newspapers for six weeks and file proof. Miss it and your authority to do business is suspended until you file. New York's law says contracts stay valid and members don't become personally liable because of the miss.

## Articles or operating agreement?

Articles go to the state and create the company. An [operating agreement](https://joinopenfile.com/guides/operating-agreement) stays in your records and sets the rules between owners. You need the first for the company to exist. You want the second so everyone knows who decides what, and California and New York require it.

## Changing them later

If a detail on the articles changes, you usually file an amendment. Fees vary. Kentucky charges $40. Delaware charges $220, or $50 if you're only changing your registered agent. Some details, such as who your managers are, may also appear on your [annual report](https://joinopenfile.com/annual-report), so update both.

## Questions

Do articles of organization list the owners?

Often not. Delaware doesn't ask for them, and Florida makes member names optional. Texas asks for the initial managers or, if there are none, the members.

What is an organizer?

The person who signs and files the form. Texas calls this person the organizer, and Delaware calls this person an authorized person.

Do I need an EIN before I file?

No. The order runs the other way. The IRS says to form the LLC with the state first, then apply for your EIN.

What's the difference between articles of organization and articles of incorporation?

Articles of organization create an LLC. Articles of incorporation create a corporation. Corporations have shareholders and usually more formal rules.

Can I file articles of organization myself?

Yes. You can file directly with your state and pay the state fee. How you file varies by state, so check your Secretary of State's site.

[Start my business](https://joinopenfile.com/start)

$0 + state and processing fees. Takes seconds.

## Sources

- [Delaware LLC Act, section 18-201](https://delcode.delaware.gov/title6/c018/sc02/index.html)
- [Florida Statutes section 605.0201](https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/605.0201)
- [Texas Secretary of State: Form 205, Certificate of Formation](https://www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/forms/205_boc.pdf)
- [New York LLC Law section 206 (publication)](https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/LLC/206)
- [Kentucky Secretary of State: Fees](https://www.sos.ky.gov/bus/business-filings/Pages/Fees.aspx)

## Keep reading

- [How to start an LLC](https://joinopenfile.com/guides/how-to-start-an-llc)
- [What is an LLC operating agreement?](https://joinopenfile.com/guides/operating-agreement)
- [What is a registered agent?](https://joinopenfile.com/guides/registered-agent)