To start an LLC in Nebraska, file the Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State. The state filing fee is currently $100.
What's Different About Nebraska
- After forming, you must publish a notice of your LLC in a newspaper.
- Nebraska is one of three states that require LLCs to publish a newspaper notice after forming (with New York and Arizona).
- Biennial report: $25, due by April 1 of odd-numbered years, every two years.
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Choose a Business Name
Your name must include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." and be different from names already on file with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Search Nebraska Business Records
Search the state's business database before filing to make sure your name is available.
Choose a Registered Agent
Every Nebraska LLC needs a registered agent with a physical street address in the state, available during business hours to receive legal papers. You can serve yourself if you qualify, or hire a service.
File the Certificate of Organization
File with the Nebraska Secretary of State. The state fee is $100.
Prefer Help Filing Your LLC?
If you'd rather have a service help prepare and file your LLC formation documents, you can review the LLC formation services from LegalZoom or Bizee. A formation service is optional — you can always file directly with the state yourself.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you.
Complete the Publication Requirement
Within 45 days of filing, publish a notice for three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in the county of your registered agent. Then file proof of publication with the Secretary of State.
Create an Operating Agreement
Nebraska doesn't require you to file an operating agreement, but a written one protects your liability shield and sets the rules for running the business.
Get an EIN
Apply for a free Employer Identification Number directly from the IRS. You'll need it for a business bank account, hiring, and most tax filings.
Register for State Taxes and Local Licenses
Register with the Nebraska Department of Revenue for any state taxes that apply, such as sales tax if you sell taxable goods or services. Check with your city and county for local business licenses.
Set Up Business Finances
Open a separate business bank account and set up simple bookkeeping so business and personal money never mix.
File Your Biennial Report
File every two years, by April 1 of odd-numbered years. The fee is $25.
How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in Nebraska?
| Fee | Amount | When |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Organization | $100 | One time |
| Biennial report | $25 | Every two years |
| Newspaper publication | ~$40 – $100+ | Within 45 days |
| EIN from the IRS | $0 | One time |
Sources disagree on the biennial report fee ($13 to $25 online). Confirm the current amount with the Secretary of State.
Fees and requirements can change. Verify current amounts with the appropriate government agency before filing. Optional services such as registered agents or formation companies are not included above.
Ongoing Nebraska Requirements
- Biennial report: $25, due by April 1 of odd-numbered years.
- Sales tax permit and returns if you sell taxable goods.
- Keep your registered agent and business address current with the state.
Federal note: since March 2025, LLCs formed in the United States are not required to file beneficial ownership (BOI) reports with FinCEN.
Common Nebraska LLC Mistakes
Using a P.O. box as the registered agent's address. Nebraska requires a physical street address.
Missing the biennial report deadline, which can lead to penalties or losing good standing.
Missing the newspaper publication deadline.
Forgetting local business licenses, which are separate from forming the LLC.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Nebraska?
The state filing fee is $100. After that, the biennial report costs $25 every two years. Also plan for: newspaper publication.
Does a Nebraska LLC have to file an annual report?
Yes. Nebraska LLCs file a biennial report every two years, due by April 1 of odd-numbered years.
Does Nebraska require newspaper publication?
Within 45 days of filing, publish a notice for three consecutive weeks in a legal newspaper in the county of your registered agent. Then file proof of publication with the Secretary of State.
Official Sources
Related LLC Guides
Nebraska LLC Cost
Every required government fee, plus what's optional.
Read the GuideWhat Is a Registered Agent?
What a registered agent does and who can serve as one.
Read the GuideHow to Get an EIN
Apply directly with the IRS — the application is free.
Read the GuideOperating Agreement Guide
What your agreement should cover, based on your ownership.
Read the GuideNebraska Business License
Formation and licensing are separate — see what applies to you.
Read the GuideNebraska LLC Annual Report
What to file each year, the fee, and the deadline.
Read the GuideWhat to Do After Forming Your LLC
The practical steps that come next.
Read the GuideStarting in Another State?
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