(Un)Common Sense Lawyer: Portland, Oregon Small Business Law Blog

First a caveat: whenever you’re considering a business venture, especially one with 2 or more owners, consulting an attorney is probably still a good fist step.  Multiple owners mean different goals and perspectives than a single owner LLC.  Having said that, these are the basics for getting an limited liability company up and running in Portland, Oregon.

1. Check the Oregon Corporation Division’s Business Registry to see if your desired LLC name is available.
2. Decide if your LLC will be member-managed or manager-managed.
3. File your articles of incorporation with the Oregon Secretary of State at filinginoregon.com.
4. Apply for an employer identification number from the IRS via their online application process.
5. Apply for applicable Portland/Multnomah County business licenses (or other applicable city and counties)
6. Draft an operating agreement.
7. Draft a buy-sell agreement.
8. Obtain necessary insurance and bonds.
9. Put all new contributions into the name and control of the LLC.
10. Research applicable zoning laws.
11. Visit the Oregon Workers Compensation site and set up an account if you plan of having employees.
12. Draft an employee policy manual (not a requirement, but probably a good idea).

The above list is not exhaustive, but it’s a good outline of the steps required to start your new Oregon LLC.  Now go forth and channel your inner entrepreneur!

See also:

1. IRS checklist for starting a business
2. Portland new business guide
3. Oregon license information