Idaho LLC Overview
Idaho is a hidden gem for LLC formation. While it charges $100 for filing, the state requires no fee for its annual report — making ongoing costs effectively zero.
Boise has emerged as one of America's fastest-growing tech hubs, attracting entrepreneurs from higher-cost states. Idaho's economy also thrives on agriculture, manufacturing, and outdoor recreation.
Idaho's 5.695% flat income tax is the main consideration. For non-residents with no Idaho operations, this does not apply. Arizona ($50, $0/year) is cheaper upfront, but Idaho's $0 annual cost matches it ongoing.
Idaho LLC Costs and Fees
All fees below are sourced from the Idaho Secretary of State fee schedule.
| Fee | Amount | When Due |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Organization (online) | $100 | One-time (at formation) |
| Annual Report ($0/year — free) | $0 | Anniversary month (no fee) |
| Registered agent | $100-150/year (third party) | Ongoing |
| State income tax | 5.695% flat rate | On Idaho-sourced income |
| Sales tax | 6% state | On taxable goods/services |
| Amendment | $30 | When needed |
| Certificate of Good Standing | $10 | When needed |
Free annual reports
Idaho is one of the few states with a completely free annual report. Five-year total is just $100 — the filing fee alone. Only Arizona and New Mexico match this at $50 each.
Step-by-Step: How to Form a Idaho LLC
Step 1: Choose your LLC name
Search for available names on the Idaho Business Entity Search. Your name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." Ensure the name is distinguishable from existing entities on file.
Step 2: Appoint a registered agent
Every Idaho LLC must have a registered agent with a physical street address in Idaho. The agent must be available during normal business hours to accept legal documents on behalf of the LLC.
Step 3: File Certificate of Organization
File online through the Idaho Secretary of State. The filing requires:
- LLC name with designator
- Registered agent name and Idaho address
- Principal address
- Mailing address
- Name and address of organizer(s)
- $100 filing fee
Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement
While not always legally required in Idaho, an Operating Agreement is essential for banking, tax compliance, and internal governance. It establishes member rights, profit distribution, and management structure. We include a custom Operating Agreement in every formation package.
Step 5: Obtain an EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is your LLC's tax ID number, required for banking, hiring, and tax filings. Online application is available for those with an SSN; fax or mail application for international applicants without an SSN.
Step 6: Register for Idaho taxes (if applicable)
If you will sell taxable goods or services in Idaho, register with the Idaho Department of Revenue for applicable tax accounts including sales tax and income tax withholding if you have employees.
Annual Compliance Requirements
- Annual report: Due during anniversary month. Fee: $0 (free). Must still file or face dissolution.
- Federal tax filing: Form 5472 with pro forma 1120 for foreign-owned LLCs.
- Idaho income tax: 5.695% flat rate on Idaho-sourced income.
- Sales tax: 6% statewide.
- Registered agent: Maintain agent with ID address.
- FinCEN BOI Report: Required.
Idaho Taxes for LLCs
| Tax Type | Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| State income tax | 5.695% flat | Pass-through to members |
| Franchise tax | $0 | No franchise tax |
| Sales tax | 6% | Statewide flat |
| Annual report | $0 | Free annual report |
Idaho's free annual report makes it one of the cheapest for ongoing maintenance. Non-residents with no Idaho operations pay nothing annually.
Processing Times
| Processing Option | Time | Additional Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Online filing | 2-5 business days | $0 |
| Expedited | Same day | $20 |
| Paper filing | 5-10 business days | $0 |
Idaho offers affordable expedited processing at just $20.
Pros and Cons of a Idaho LLC
Advantages
- Free annual report ($0/year)
- Growing Boise tech hub
- No franchise tax
- Low cost of living
- Cheap expedited processing ($20)
- Business-friendly environment
- High quality of life
- Modern online filing
Disadvantages
- $100 filing fee (moderate)
- 5.695% income tax on ID income
- Smaller ecosystem than major metros
- Less well-known for LLC formation
- Limited privacy protections
- Remote location for some needs
Our Pricing: Idaho LLC Formation
Domestic Filers (US Residents)
$249 service fee + $100 state filing fee
International Filers (Non-US Residents)
$349 service fee + $100 state filing fee
Every formation package includes:
- Certificate of Organization filing with Idaho Secretary of State
- One year of registered agent service in Idaho
- Custom Operating Agreement
- EIN application
- Banking introduction letter
- Digital document delivery within 24 hours of state approval
- Compliance calendar with all filing deadlines
- Dedicated support via email and WhatsApp
Form your Idaho LLC today
$349 all-in for US residents. $449 for international. No hidden fees.
Start My Idaho LLC →Over five years: $100 in state fees ($100 filing + $0/year). One of the cheapest. Compare with Arizona ($50) or Wyoming ($510).
Comparing states? Read our Wyoming vs Delaware comparison guide for the full breakdown of top formation states.
