Decide on the legal structure of your business. See our business tax structure page. Common options include:

• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• C-Corporation (C-Corp)
• S-Corporation (S-Corp)
• Nonprofit

For more information, see our Tax Structure Guide!

Arkansas does not require you to reserve a business name before registration, but it is recommended to check availability:

• Check Name Availability: Arkansas Business Entity Search

Submit the necessary formation documents based on your business structure to the Arkansas Secretary of State:

• LLC: File Articles of Organization.
  • Fee: $45 (online) or $50 (paper).
  • File Online or Download Forms
• Corporation: File Articles of Incorporation.
  • Fee: $50 (online) or $55 (paper).
  • File Online or Download Forms

If operating under a name different from your legal business name, register a Trade Name (DBA) with the Arkansas Secretary of State.

• Fee: $25.
• File a Trade Name Application

Check for state, county, or local licenses your business may need:

• Statewide Licenses: Arkansas does not have a general business license but may require industry-specific licenses.
• Local Licenses: Contact your city or county office for local requirements.

If your business will hire employees or sell goods, you must register with the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration:

• Sales and Use Tax Permit: Required for businesses selling taxable goods or services.
  • Register Online
• Employer Taxes: Register for withholding and unemployment taxes if you have employees.

To separate personal and business finances, open a business bank account using:

• Your EIN (Employer Identification Number).
• Formation documents or operating agreement.

Franchise Tax: LLCs and Corporations must file an annual Franchise Tax Report and pay the associated fee ($150 minimum for LLCs).

• File Online

• Arkansas Secretary of State – Business and Commercial Services: Visit Here
• Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA): Visit Here
• Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC): Visit Here