Start a Business in Oklahoma

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This guide on starting your business in Oklahoma provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.

Step-By-Step Startup

Below is an overview of the paperwork, cost, and time to form each of the most popular business structures. Simply click on the link for your desired structure to view detailed step-by-step instructions.

If you have not decided whether you want to form an LLC, corporation, or other business structure, click here.
If wish to form your business in a different state than Oklahoma, click here.

Structure	Paperwork	Cost	Time
Oklahoma Limited Liability Company Click for step-by-step instructions	Form SOS 00073: Articles of Organization (Oklahoma Limited Liability Company) Operating Agreement IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN Form 40001: Oklahoma Business Registration Application FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Report	Formation: $100 + optional $25 expedite fee for in-person same-day service Oklahoma business registration application: cost of needed licenses	Formation: ~7-10 business days by mail. ~1 business day online or when filed in-person with $25 expedite fee.
Oklahoma Corporation Click for step-by-step instructions	Form SOS 0002: Certificate of Organization (Oklahoma Corporation) Bylaws IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN Form 2553: S-Corp Election, if desired Form 40001: Oklahoma Business Registration Application FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Report	Incorporation: $50 for up to $50,000 authorized shares + optional $25 expedite fee for in-person same-day service	Incorporation: ~7-10 business days by mail. ~1 business day online or when filed in-person with $25 expedite fee.
Oklahoma Nonprofit Click for step-by-step instructions	Form SOS 0009-07/12: Certificate of Incorporation (Oklahoma Not for Profit Corporation) Bylaws IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application IRS Determination Letter Form 40001: Oklahoma Business Registration Application Form 13-16-A: Application for Sales Tax Exemption URS Charitable Registration, if applicable Form SOS 101A-01/13: Registration Statement of Charitable Organization FinCEN Beneficial Ownership Report	Incorporation: $25 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee Oklahoma Business Registration: fees for needed licenses Oklahoma Charitable Registration: $15 - $65	Incorporation: ~7-10 business days by mail. ~1 business day online. 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Oklahoma

All businesses in Oklahoma were required to file an Annual Business Activity Tax (BAT) Return with the Ohio Tax Commission during tax years 2010, 2011, and 2012. The BAT expired in 2013, but is always subject to further legislative action.
A general purpose statement is acceptable for corporations. For example, "any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the general corporation law of Oklahoma".
An Oklahoma registered agent signs for the delivery of legal and tax documents for a business. All Oklahoma business entities must have a registered agent. The registered agent and address filed with the state should be kept up-to-date at all times.
Oklahoma provides a single registration application to set up your business with the applicable state tax accounts. You must include the second half of Form 40001 (Oklahoma Business Registration License and Fees).
LLCs must file an annual certificate with the Oklahoma Secretary of State. Corporations do not. Many states call this an annual report.

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Start a Business in Oklahoma

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Step-By-Step Startup

Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Oklahoma