Summary
The fact that you may need to register with state agencies like DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection is a sneaky misconception that many folks miss.
However, with the rise of remote work, states have begun cracking down and levying penalties for those who (unknowingly) fail to register.
If you're considering operating in Washington DC, use this guide to:
- Explore the that triggers the need to register with the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection, including criteria such as physical presence, economic activity, and advertising efforts.
- Determine where and how to register with the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection.
- Understand additional requirements such as Registered Agents, registration with other state departments, and ongoing annual reports.
What criteria would trigger the requirement to register with the DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection?
Where do I register, and what else is required?
DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection
- A Certificate of Good Standing is required (dated within the past 60 days)
In addition:
A Registered Agent is required to serve as the company's physical in-state presence to receive important legal documents. Do not fall victim to the common misconception that you can leverage an in-state employee as your Registered Agent. It's far too risky.
You'll want to review the other registrations required in Washington DC. Here's a Washington DC specific guide we put together.
What is the registration fee?
The fee charged by Washington DC is $200.
How long does Washington DC usually take to process?
Washington DC usually takes approximately 1 - 2 weeks to process registrations.
What is required ongoing?
Each state has a complex schedule of required annual reports, which can vary by entity type. Let's take a look at Washington DC's:
C-Corporation
- Filing Date: April 1 (12/31 Year/end)
- Filing Frequency: Annual
LLC
- Filing Date: April 1 (12/31 Year/end)
- Filing Frequency: Annual
Non-Profit
- Filing Date: April 1 (12/31 Year/end)
- Filing Frequency: Annual
There is an Easier Way
Automate registration and annual report tracking in AbstractOps.This guide should definitely help reduce some of the confusion for Washington DC. However, if you have multiple states to worry about, you may look to:
Automate state registrations and annual reports
Centralize email, snail mail, state ID’s, and registered agents, and
Take control of action items, eliminating risks before they become penalties.
Start the AbstractOps product demo to see how easy this can be.
Note: For the avoidance of doubt, nothing provided here shall contemplate, constitute or include tax or legal advice. Always double check with state agency websites for the most up-to-date requirements.
