Arkansas and Washington, two states known for their unique landscapes and distinct qualities, offer different environments for businesses looking to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC).
In this side-by-side comparison, we will examine the key factors that entrepreneurs and business owners should consider when choosing between Arkansas and Washington for their LLC formation.
From legal requirements and taxation policies to business opportunities and regulatory frameworks, exploring the
Similarities and differences between these states will help navigate the decision-making process effectively.
Arkansas vs. Washington LLC
The process and requirements for forming an LLC may vary between Arkansas and Washington. This could include filing fees, the necessary documents, and other regulatory compliance steps.
LLCs can have different management structures, such as member-managed or manager-managed.
The laws in Arkansas and Washington might differ in terms of the roles and responsibilities of LLC members and managers.
Each state may have different tax regulations concerning LLCs. This could include state income tax rates, tax deductions, and other tax-related considerations.
| Arkansas LLC | Washington LLC |
|---|---|
| Arkansas LLC has a lower formation fee, which is around $45. | Washington LLC has a higher formation fee, usually around $200. |
| It is required to file an annual franchise tax report, costing around $150. | It need to file an annual report, which incurs a fee of $60. |
| The individual income tax rates in Arkansas range from 0% to 7.0%. | The individual income tax rates in Washington range from 4.01% to 9.33%. |
| The B&O tax rate in Arkansas ranges from 0.13% to 3.30%, depending on the type of business activity. | It does not impose a B&O tax. |
| Arkansas LLCs must collect and remit sales tax at a rate of 6.5%, plus local taxes if applicable. | Washington LLCs do not have sales tax. |
| It must pay an annual franchise tax, which is approximately $150. | It is not subject to a franchise tax. |
| Arkansas has a corporate income tax rate of 6.25. | Washington LLC has a corporate income tax rate of 7.6. |
| It boasts a diverse economy, including industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. | It is known for its thriving technology sector and diverse economic opportunities. |
Cost Breakdown of The Two
You may use our free LLC cost calculator by state to find out filing fees, tax percentages, income taxes, and more.
Arkansas LLC
The filing fee for forming an LLC in Arkansas is typically around $45. This fee may vary based on the type of LLC (domestic or foreign) and the method of filing (online or paper).
Arkansas requires LLCs to file an Annual Franchise Tax Report, which costs $150. This report must be filed every year to maintain the LLC’s active status.
LLCs in Arkansas are required to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. The cost of a registered agent service may vary, but it is typically around $100 to $300 per year.
Washington LLC
The filing fee for forming an LLC in Washington is usually around $200. This fee may vary based on the method of filing and whether it’s a standard or expedited process.
Washington requires LLCs to file an Annual Report with the Secretary of State, which costs $60. This report must be filed every year to keep the LLC in good standing.
Depending on the nature of the LLC’s activities, a business license may be required. The cost of the license can vary based on the type of business and local regulations.
Related Posts:
- Arkansas LLC: Cost Breakdown, Pros and Cons, Requirements
- Washington LLC: Cost Breakdown, Pros and Cons, Requirements
Similarities Between Arkansas and Washington LLC
Both Arkansas and Washington provide limited liability protection to LLC owners, meaning that the personal assets of members are generally protected from the business’s debts and liabilities.
The process of forming an LLC in both states involves filing the necessary formation documents with the respective Secretary of State or a similar agency.
This typically includes filing Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation.
Both states have regulations regarding the naming of LLCs. The names must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state.
Additionally, certain words or phrases may be prohibited or require special approval.
In both states, an LLC is required to have a registered agent who has a physical address within the state.
The registered agent is responsible for receiving official documents and legal notices on behalf of the LLC.
Both Arkansas and Washington allow flexibility in how an LLC is managed. LLCs can be either member-managed,
Where all members participate in decision-making, or manager-managed, where designated managers handle the business’s daily operations.
Both states follow the federal tax treatment of LLCs as “pass-through entities.” This means that the LLC itself does not pay federal income taxes.
Instead, profits and losses pass through to the individual members, who report them on their personal tax returns.
While not mandated by law, having an operating agreement is recommended in both states.
This internal document outlines the rights, responsibilities, and operating procedures of the LLC and its members.
Both Arkansas and Washington require LLCs to file annual reports or other renewals to maintain their good standing with the state.
These reports often include updating the business’s contact information and paying any required fees.
Additional Resources:
- Arkansas vs. New Jersey LLC
- Arkansas vs. North Carolina LLC
- Best States to Form an LLC for Amazon FBA
Steps to Form LLC in Arkansas
Choose a unique name for your LLC.
Check the name’s availability with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
Prepare and file Articles of Organization online or by mail.
Include required information such as LLC’s name, registered agent details, and purpose.
Pay the filing fee of around $45 when submitting the Articles of Organization.
Designate a registered agent with a physical address in Arkansas.
Create an Operating Agreement outlining member roles and LLC’s internal workings (optional but recommended).
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes.
File any necessary state business licenses or permits based on your LLC’s activities.
Consider applying for a state sales tax permit if you plan to sell taxable goods or services.
Comply with ongoing requirements, such as filing Annual Franchise Tax Reports (costs around $150/year).
Steps to Form LLC in Washington
Choose a unique name for your LLC that complies with Washington naming rules.
Verify the name’s availability with the Washington Secretary of State.
Prepare and file a Certificate of Formation (Articles of Organization) online or by mail.
Include required details like LLC name, registered agent’s information, and principal address.
Pay the filing fee of around $200 when submitting the Certificate of Formation.
Designate a registered agent with a physical address in Washington.
Consider drafting an Operating Agreement outlining member roles and internal operations (not required but advisable).
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes.
Check if your LLC requires any specific state or local business licenses or permits.
File an Annual Report with the Washington Secretary of State every year (costs $60) to keep the LLC active.
Comply with all state tax requirements and maintain necessary records.
Feature Comparisons Between Arkansas LLC vs. Washington LLC
Formation Fee: The filing fee for forming an LLC is generally higher in Washington (around $200) compared to Arkansas (around $45).
Annual Report Fee: The annual report fee in Washington is $60, while in Arkansas, LLCs are required to file an Annual Franchise Tax Report, which costs approximately $150.
Registered Agent: Both states require LLCs to have a registered agent with a physical address within the state.
Management Flexibility: Both states allow LLCs to choose between member-managed and manager-managed structures, providing flexibility in how the business is managed.
Name Availability Search: Both states require LLCs to have a unique name that’s distinguishable from other businesses in the state.
You can perform a name availability search in both states before filing.
Taxation: Both Arkansas and Washington treat LLCs as pass-through entities for federal income tax purposes, meaning the LLC itself does not pay federal income tax.
Instead, profits and losses pass through to the individual members’ tax returns.
Annual Renewal Requirements: Both states require LLCs to file annual reports or renewals to maintain their active status.
In Washington, it’s an Annual Report ($60), and in Arkansas, it’s the Annual Franchise Tax Report (approximately $150).
Business Environment
Arkansas LLC
Arkansas generally has a lower cost of doing business compared to many other states, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking affordability.
It has a corporate income tax rate of 6.5% on net income above a certain threshold, which might impact larger LLCs with significant profits.
The state also has a personal income tax with rates ranging from 0.9% to 6.6%.
Arkansas’s economy is diverse, with industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology contributing to its growth.
The state’s regulatory environment is generally considered to be business-friendly, with relatively straightforward compliance requirements.
Washington LLC
Washington is well-known for its thriving technology sector, with major companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and many startups, making it a hub for tech-driven businesses.
It does not impose a state income tax, which can be advantageous for LLC members as they avoid personal income tax on LLC earnings.
However, there is a Business and Occupation (B&O) tax on gross receipts for certain business activities.
Washington’s economy is diverse, with technology, aerospace, agriculture, and tourism being significant contributors to the state’s prosperity.
Washington’s regulatory environment is generally considered moderate, with various industry-specific regulations that businesses need to navigate.
Washington has a well-educated workforce and a competitive labor market, particularly in the technology and engineering sectors.
Read Also:
Arkansas vs. Washington Taxes
Arkansas Taxes
Firstly, Arkansas imposes a progressive state income tax with rates ranging from 2% to 5.9% on individual taxable income.
The top rate applies to income over a certain threshold.
Arkansas levies a flat corporate income tax rate of 6.25% on net income above a specified threshold for C corporations.
The state sales tax rate in Arkansas is generally 6.5%. Local jurisdictions can impose additional sales taxes, which can vary.
Property taxes in Arkansas vary by county and local jurisdictions. The state offers property tax relief programs for certain individuals and properties.
Arkansas requires LLCs to pay an annual franchise tax, which is based on the LLC’s total authorized capital stock or total investment in the state.
The minimum tax is approximately $150.
Washington Taxes
Washington LLCs do not have sales tax.
It does not impose a state income tax on individuals, making it one of the few states without a personal income tax.
Property taxes in Washington can vary by county and local jurisdictions. The state offers property tax relief programs for certain individuals and properties.
Washington may have other taxes or fees depending on the nature of the business, such as excise taxes on certain goods and services.
Flexibility in Rules and Regulations
Arkansas
Business-Friendly Environment: Arkansas is often considered to have a business-friendly environment with relatively straightforward regulations for starting and operating a business, including LLCs.
Flexible Management Structure: LLCs in Arkansas have the option to choose between member-managed and manager-managed structures, offering flexibility in how the business is managed.
Ease of Formation: Forming an LLC in Arkansas typically involves a straightforward process with relatively low filing fees.
Regulatory Compliance: Arkansas has generally moderate regulatory requirements for businesses,
Making it more manageable for small and medium-sized enterprises to comply with rules and regulations.
Washington
Diverse Economy: Washington is known for its diverse economy, with a strong presence of technology, aerospace, and other industries.
This diversity offers various business opportunities for LLCs.
Technology Hub: Being a technology hub, Washington attracts startups and tech-driven businesses, which can benefit from the state’s innovation ecosystem.
No State Income Tax: Washington does not impose a state income tax, providing potential tax advantages for LLC members as they avoid personal income tax on LLC earnings.
Industry-Specific Regulations: Depending on the nature of the business, some industries in Washington may have specific regulations that businesses need to navigate.
Entrepreneurial Culture: Washington has a vibrant entrepreneurial culture and access to a skilled labor force, which can be beneficial for startups and businesses looking to expand.
Key Differences Between Arkansas and Washington- An Overview
