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Alabama · Foreign LLC · updated

How to register an out-of-state LLC in Alabama

An LLC formed in another state registers to do business in Alabama with a foreign registration filing (Alabama's fee is $150). It needs a Alabama registered agent and usually a good standing certificate from its home state. As of October 2026.

Alabama state fee$150per the state's fee schedule
Our filing service$120we prepare and file it
State fee + ours$270card processing is added at checkout
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The 5 steps to register a foreign LLC in Alabama

Background on when a state counts you as "doing business": foreign qualification explained.

  1. 1

    Confirm you are doing business in Alabama

    Where people get stuck

    An office, employees, or regular in-person work in Alabama usually counts; a few sales shipped in usually does not. Alabama's own statute decides. If you have not formed the LLC yet, forming it in Alabama directly is often simpler (start an LLC in Alabama).

  2. 2

    Get a good standing certificate from your home state

    Order it first

    Most states ask for a recent certificate of good standing (or existence) from the state where the LLC was formed. How to order one in each state.

  3. 3

    Name a Alabama registered agent

    Required

    The LLC needs an agent with a Alabama street address. Ours is $74.25 a year, the same at renewal. Alabama agent rules.

  4. 4

    File the foreign registration with the state

    We file this one

    You file it with Alabama's business filing office; Alabama's fee is $150 (Alabama fee schedule). The current form is on Alabama's official site. We file it for $120 plus the state fee.

  5. 5

    Keep up with Alabama's yearly filing

    From next year

    A registered foreign LLC files Alabama's yearly report like a local one. Alabama: Business Privilege Tax of $100 or less is fully exempt with no return required (tax years from 2024). A return is only due if the computed tax exceeds $100. Deadline and free reminders.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to register a foreign LLC in Alabama?

Alabama's fee is $150 per the state's fee schedule. If we file it, our fee is $120 on top. Add the home-state good standing certificate and a Alabama registered agent.

What happens if I do business in Alabama without registering?

States commonly bar an unregistered LLC from suing in their courts until it registers, and can charge back fees and penalties. Check the state's own rules.

Do I still file reports in my home state?

Yes. The LLC keeps its home-state filings and adds this state's.

Is it cheaper to just form the LLC in Alabama?

If Alabama is the only state where you operate, usually yes: one state's fees and one registered agent. Our best-state comparison covers all 51.

Is this page legal advice?

No. It explains the filing in general terms. For your situation, talk to a licensed attorney, or book a free call with us.

More Alabama business guides

Start an LLC LLC cost Registered agent Annual report Good standing Name search Sales tax permit Dissolve an LLC Change agent Amend an LLC Change the name

Nearby states

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Have us register your LLC in Alabama

$120 plus Alabama's $150 state fee. Checkout shows the full total before you pay.

Register my LLC in Alabama

Rather talk first? Call Ray or Vinny at (954) 470-8356.