Vocabulary

LLC terms, step by step

Fifteen terms to know, with a quick definition for each and a deeper page when you need it.

Written by the Simple Filing Guide editorial team Checked and updated November 13, 2026

Alphabetical list

Annual report: A routine report to the state, most often due once a year.
Articles of organization: The formation filing that turns your plan into a legal entity once approved.
Certificate of good standing: Proof from the state of formation that the LLC's filings are up to date.
EIN: Employer Identification Number: a nine-digit IRS number that identifies your business for federal tax.
Foreign LLC: An LLC operating in a state other than the one where it was formed. The word means out of state, not out of the country.
Foreign registration: Paperwork that adds another state to your LLC, with its own fee and a local agent.
Member: Someone who owns a share of the company.
Minimum LLC tax: A flat annual amount some states require simply because the LLC is registered with them.
Operating agreement: The LLC's internal rulebook, written by the owners.
Organizer: The filer named on the formation document; they need not be an owner.
Publication requirement: A requirement to publish formation notice in the press, followed by a certificate filed with the state. You choose a paper, pay its fee and send the proof.
Registered agent: Whoever you appoint to receive your LLC's legal papers, reachable at a street address inside the state.
Registered office: The in-state street address where your agent can be reached. P.O. boxes generally do not qualify.
Service of process: Formal delivery of legal documents, accepted by the agent on the LLC's behalf.
Statutory agent, resident agent and other names: The agent role goes by different titles in different states, but the duties match.