Real Documents You’ll Need for a Louisiana LLC

Starting a business in Louisiana? One of the first steps is forming a Louisiana LLC (Limited Liability Company). You’ll need to file some official papers called formation documents to do this. These documents are important because they show that your business is real and legal.

In this article, we’ll explain the main Louisiana LLC documents you need, show you an actual sample Louisiana Certificate of Formation, and compare Louisiana’s paperwork with other states like Texas, Delaware, Georgia, and Wyoming. Let’s get started!

What Is an LLC and Why Does It Need Documents?

An LLC is a type of business that protects your money and property. That means if your business gets sued, your home or car can’t be taken. But to get this protection, you must register your LLC with the state.

Each state has different rules, but they all require you to file official forms. These are your LLC formation documents.

Key Louisiana LLC Documents You’ll Need

When forming an LLC in Louisiana, the main document is the Articles of Organization. In some states, this is also called the Certificate of Formation.

Here are the real documents you’ll need:

1. Articles of Organization (Certificate of Formation)

This is the most important document. It includes:

• Your LLC name
• Your business address
• Your registered agent’s name and address
• The purpose of your business
• Whether your LLC is managed by members or managers

Sample Louisiana Certificate of Formation

Here’s what an actual Louisiana Certificate of Formation (Articles of Organization) might look like:

ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION

Name of LLC: Bayou Builders LLC  

Registered Agent: Rapid Registered Agent LLC  

Address: 123 Main Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70801  

Purpose: Residential construction  

Management: Manager-managed  

This form is filed with the Louisiana Secretary of State online or by mail.

2. Initial Report

Louisiana is one of the few states that requires an Initial Report when you form your LLC. This report confirms your business details and includes:

• LLC name
• Business address
• Registered agent information
• Names and addresses of managers or members

3. Operating Agreement (Optional but Recommended)

Louisiana doesn’t require an Operating Agreement, but it’s smart to have one. This document explains how your LLC will be run and each member’s role. Banks often ask for this when you open a business account.

Comparing LLC Documents in Other States

Here’s how Louisiana compares to other popular states when it comes to LLC paperwork:

Each state has its own rules and required forms. That’s why working with a service that understands each state’s system is helpful.

Louisiana LLC Documents: Why a Registered Agent Matters

Every Louisiana LLC must list a registered agent in its Articles of Organization. A registered agent is a person or company that receives official papers for your business, like legal notices or tax forms.

Using a local agent like Rapid Registered Agent can help you stay compliant and avoid missing deadlines. If you’re not from Louisiana, you’ll need someone with a local address to act as your agent.

See It in Action: Use Our Slider Tool to Compare Documents

Want to see the difference between a Louisiana LLC form and a Texas or Delaware one? Our slider tool lets you view real examples of LLC documents from:

• Louisiana
• Texas
• Delaware
• Georgia
• Wyoming

Compare side-by-side how each state sets up its LLCs so you can choose the best place for your business.

Need a Local Louisiana Agent? See Our Rapid Office Hours

If you’re forming a Louisiana LLC and need a local registered agent, we’ve got you covered. Rapid Registered Agent has an office right in Louisiana.

Visit us or give us a call. Check out our Rapid office hours for in-person help— fast, simple, and affordable support.

Final Thoughts

Forming a Louisiana LLC is a great way to protect your assets and start your business off right. Just make sure you:

• File your Articles of Organization
• Submit your Initial Report
• Choose a reliable registered agent
• Create an Operating Agreement (even if it’s not required)

Each state is a little different, so use our tools and resources to understand what you need, especially if you’re comparing with other states like Texas, Delaware, Georgia, or Wyoming.