Mississippi LLC Documents: What You Need

Real Documents You’ll Need for a Mississippi LLC
Starting a Mississippi LLC is a smart step if you want to run your own business. But before you can begin, you need to file the right paperwork. These papers are called your Mississippi LLC documents.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what documents you’ll need to form an LLC in Mississippi. We’ll also include a sample Mississippi Certificate of Formation, explain what it means, and show how it compares to documents from other states like Texas, Delaware, Georgia, and Wyoming.
What Are Mississippi LLC Documents?
“Mississippi LLC documents” are the official forms you must file with the state to create your business. These papers tell the government who owns the business, where it is, and what it does.
The most important document is the Certificate of Formation. This is what “forms” your business with the state.
Main Document: The Certificate of Formation
The Mississippi Certificate of Formation is the official form you must file online with the Mississippi Secretary of State. It’s what creates your LLC under state law.
Here’s what you’ll include in this form:
1. Business Name
You must choose a name that isn’t already taken in Mississippi. It must also include “LLC,” “L.L.C.,” or “Limited Liability Company.”
2. Registered Agent
A registered agent is a person or company that accepts legal mail and state notices for your LLC. The agent must have a physical address in Mississippi (no P.O. Boxes).
3. Registered Office
This is the address where your registered agent will be available during business hours.
4. Organizer
This is the person filing the paperwork. It could be you or someone else helping you file.
5. Date of Formation
You can choose the day your business officially starts.
Example: Sample Mississippi Certificate of Formation
Below is a sample Mississippi Certificate of Formation:
Sample Mississippi Certificate of Formation
- Name of LLC: Jackson River Coffee, LLC
- Registered Agent: Jane Smith
- Registered Office Address: 123 Main Street, Jackson, MS 39201
- Organizer: Jane Smith, 123 Main Street, Jackson, MS
- Effective Date: Today’s Date
This form is simple, usually only one page long. You file it through the Secretary of State’s website. Once accepted, you’ll receive a stamped copy confirming your LLC exists.
Other Important Mississippi LLC Documents
Even though the Certificate of Formation is the only document you must file with the state, there are a few other documents you’ll want to create or keep on hand:
1. Operating Agreement
This is a written agreement that explains how your LLC works. It includes who owns what part of the business and how decisions are made.
- Is it required? No, but it’s a smart idea—especially if your LLC has more than one owner.
2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Think of this as a Social Security number for your business. You’ll need it to open a business bank account, hire employees, or file taxes.
- Where to get it? You can apply for free on the IRS website.
3. Business License
Depending on where your business is located in Mississippi, your city or county might require a local business license.
- Tip: Check with your city clerk’s office to see what local rules apply.
Mississippi LLC Documents vs. Other States
Let’s compare what Mississippi requires with other states, so you can see the difference in paperwork.
State | Main Formation Document | Filing Method | Registered | Operating Agreement Required? |
Mississippi | Certificate of Formation | Online only | Yes | No (but recommended) |
Texas | Certificate of Formation (Form 205) | Online or by mail | Yes | No (but recommended) |
Delaware | Certificate of Formation | Mail or online | Yes | No (but smart to have) |
Georgia | Articles of Organization | Online or mail | Yes | No |
Wyoming | Articles of Organization | Online or mail | Yes | No |
Key Takeaways:
- Mississippi requires online filing only—no mailing allowed.
- Delaware and Wyoming offer more privacy for owners.
- Texas has a high filing fee but allows mail or online.
- Georgia is fast and easy for online filers.
Want to see the difference in real-time?
Use our slider tool to compare states: Compare LLC Requirements
Why Your Registered Agent Matters in Mississippi
Every Mississippi LLC needs a registered agent with a real Mississippi address. This person or business will accept legal papers, such as lawsuits or notices from the Secretary of State.
You Have Three Options:
- Be Your Own Agent – Use your name and address. But your info will be public.
- Use a Friend or Family Member – Must live in Mississippi and be available during the day.
- Hire a Registered Agent Service – Keeps your address private and ensures you never miss an important notice.
Our Tip: Use a professional service like Rapid Registered Agent. We handle mail quickly and keep your private details off public records.
Need a local Mississippi agent? See our Rapid office hours
Step-by-Step: How to File Your Mississippi LLC Documents
Here’s how you can start your Mississippi LLC in 5 easy steps:
- Pick Your Business Name – Make sure it’s available using the Mississippi business search tool.
- Choose a Registered Agent – Decide if you’ll be your own or use a service.
- File Your Certificate of Formation – File it online at the Secretary of State’s website.
- Create an Operating Agreement – Write down how your business will run.
- Get an EIN – Apply for free at IRS.gov.
After filing, you’ll receive a certificate showing that your LLC is approved.
Recap: What You Need to Start a Mississippi LLC
To create your Mississippi LLC, you’ll need:
- Mississippi Certificate of Formation – Required and filed online
- Registered Agent in Mississippi – Required by law
- Operating Agreement – Not required, but smart to have
- EIN from the IRS – Needed for banking and taxes
- Business License – May be required based on location
Don’t forget—each state is a little different. If you’re doing business in other states too, make sure you understand what their LLC documents look like.
Final Tip: Get Local Help When You Need It
Starting a business is exciting, but it can also feel confusing. That’s why it helps to have local support.
Need a local Mississippi agent? See our Rapid office hours
We’ll help you file your Mississippi LLC documents, act as your agent, and keep your business on track.