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If you’re a photographer in Arizona, registering your photography business as an LLC is an essential step to make your business official and protected. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through how to register an LLC in Arizona for photographers.
You’re ready to make it official? To go from side hustle or solo dreamer to full-fledged creative business owner? First of all, congrats, friend! This is a big deal! Whether you’re a photographer, designer, or creative-of-all-trades, registering as an LLC is a powerful step toward protecting your work and your future.
Step 1: Choose & Register Your Business Name
This is the fun part! Choose a name that represents your brand. Make it memorable and unique; but also make sure it’s available!
- Check name availability with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
- Your name must include “LLC” or “L.L.C.” at the end.
Tip: Watch out for trademarked names. Avoid names that are too similar to existing businesses in Arizona. You can check for the availability of your name on the ACC but If you’re unsure, you can reserve the name for 120 days for a $10 fee.
Step 2: Appoint a Statutory Agent
Arizona law requires every LLC to designate a Statutory Agent (aka Registered Agent). This is the person or company that will receive legal mail or official notices.
- Just starting out? You can be your own agent! (must be 18+ and have an AZ address)
- Or you can hire a registered agent service (some start at ~$49/year).
Step 3: File Articles of Organization
Now it’s time to officially file your LLC paperwork.
- Go to the Arizona Corporation Commission eCorp site.
- Choose “Create A New LLC” > “Limited Liability Company” > Fill Out Information As Needed.
- Fill out your business info and pay the $50 filing fee ($85 if you choose expedited service).
Once submitted, you’ll receive confirmation when your registered filing has been approved. Usually within a few days, if expedited.
Step 4: Publish a Notice (If Required)
Here’s something unique to Arizona: you may need to publish a Notice of LLC Formation in an approved newspaper for three consecutive weeks if your business isn’t located in Maricopa or Pima County.
- Find a newspaper approved by the Arizona Corporation Commission in your county.
- Expect to pay around $40–$100, depending on the paper.
Maricopa & Pima peeps? You can skip this step. 🎉
Step 5: Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Even if you don’t have employees, you’ll want an EIN from the IRS. Think of this as your Social Security Number for your business. It’s very important!
Why? You’ll need it to:
- Open a business bank account
- File taxes
- Hire contractors or employees later
It’s free and only takes 5 minutes at IRS.gov.
Step 6: (Optional But Recommended) Create an Operating Agreement
Not required by Arizona law, but very smart to have. Especially if you plan to grow, partner, or apply for funding later.
This document lays out:
- Who owns the LLC
- How profits/losses are handled
- What happens if someone leaves the business
Even if you’re a one-person show, it’s still helpful to have on file.
Step 7: Open a Business Bank Account
Now that your LLC and EIN are ready, open a separate business bank account. This is one of my heavily recommended absolute MUST. This keeps your finances clean and legally protected (aka it reinforces your LLC status if anything ever happens).
Tip: Look for banks that offer free business checking or online tools geared toward creatives and small businesses.
Step 8: Keep It Legit – Know Your Ongoing Requirements
To stay in good standing, Arizona LLCs must:
- File an annual report, if required (thankfully AZ currently doesn’t require one for standard LLCs. However, always check for updates)
- Maintain a Statutory Agent
- Keep business licenses and sales tax permits up to date, depending on your services
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide on “How To Register an LLC in Arizona for Photographers” was helpful! Registering your LLC is one of the most empowering steps you can take as a creative business owner. It’s more than paperwork. It’s a declaration that your art is a business, and you’re here to make moves!
Whether you’re just starting out or taking your photography biz to the next level, having a solid legal foundation gives you confidence. Now go make that photography business dream into a reality!
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