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Starting a Business in Washington: LLC vs Corporation – Your Complete Guide

By Frank Tumminello | August 12, 2025

Washington State offers no state income tax, thriving technology sector, and strategic Pacific Northwest location. The Evergreen State attracts businesses with its innovation ecosystem and business-friendly policies.

At FileForms, we simplify business formation and ongoing compliance with automated filing services and expert guidance. Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your Washington business.

Why Washington for Your Business?

Washington provides no state income tax, access to skilled tech workforce, and strategic location for Pacific Rim trade. The state’s innovation ecosystem and business infrastructure make it attractive for technology and international businesses.

LLC Formation in Washington

Key Requirements:

  • Certificate of Formation filed with Washington Secretary of State
  • Filing Fee: $200
  • Registered Agent: Required with Washington physical address
  • Annual Report: Due by anniversary date
  • No Publication Requirement: Washington doesn’t require newspaper publication

Benefits of Washington LLC:

  • No state income tax
  • Thriving tech ecosystem
  • Strategic Pacific location
  • Business-friendly environment

Ongoing Compliance:

  • Annual Report: Due by anniversary date with $60 fee
  • Maintain registered agent service
  • Keep operating agreement current

Corporation Formation in Washington

Key Requirements:

  • Articles of Incorporation filed with Washington Secretary of State
  • Filing Fee: $200
  • Registered Agent: Required with Washington physical address
  • Annual Report: Due by anniversary date
  • Corporate Bylaws: Must be adopted

Benefits of Washington Corporation:

  • No state income tax
  • Enhanced credibility for fundraising
  • Access to venture capital
  • Strategic location advantages

Ongoing Compliance:

  • Annual Report: Due by anniversary date with $60 fee
  • Maintain corporate records
  • Hold required board meetings

Cost Comparison: LLC vs Corporation in Washington

Requirement LLC Corporation
State Filing Fee $200 $200
Registered Agent (Annual) $100-$300 $100-$300
Annual Report Fee $60 $60
State Income Tax None None

How FileForms Streamlines Washington Business Formation

FileForms makes Washington business formation seamless with:

  • Automated Filing: Complete all Washington Secretary of State requirements
  • Registered Agent Services: Professional Washington address across all counties
  • Anniversary Date Tracking: Automated reminders for Washington anniversary-based deadlines
  • Tech Ecosystem Support: Specialized guidance for Washington’s technology sector
  • Pacific Rim Access: Strategic positioning for international business opportunities

Making Your Decision

Choose an LLC if you want:

  • No state income tax obligations
  • Flexible management structure
  • Access to thriving tech ecosystem
  • Strategic Pacific Northwest location

Choose a Corporation if you plan to:

  • Access Washington’s venture capital market
  • Build credibility for fundraising
  • Pursue international business opportunities
  • Take advantage of innovation ecosystem

Take Action Today

Ready to start your Washington business? Don’t navigate the Evergreen State’s requirements alone.

✅ Create a FileForms account today

✅ Get expert guidance on LLC vs Corporation choice

✅ Handle all filing requirements seamlessly

👉 Book a demo today to see how FileForms makes Washington business formation fast, easy, and compliant from day one.

Frank Tumminello

CEO, Fileforms