How to File a Massachusetts Annual Report

If you have a limited liability company (LLC) in Massachusetts, you must file an annual report to keep your business in good standing. It’s a relatively painless process that can be done online. 

What Is an Annual Report?

An annual report simply verifies your business information and tells the state of Massachusetts that your LLC is still operating. In addition, keeping up with annual reports is a legal requirement that enables you to obtain a Certificate of Legal Existence, which a bank or creditor might request to confirm your compliance. 

In Massachusetts, the following information is required for the annual report: 

• Business name
• Primary business address
• Name of business contact and contact information
• The name and address of at least one member that is authorized to sign documents
• Registered agent’s name, address, and contact information

How to File an Annual Report in Massachusetts

To file your annual report in Massachusetts, visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website and log in to your account.

You’ll select “file annual report” and fill in all the required information. 

If You Do Business in Other States

If you do business in other states, be sure to register in those states as a foreign LLC. For example, if your LLC is registered in Massachusetts and you start doing business in Florida, you’ll need to register in Florida as a foreign LLC.

You’re required to register as a foreign LLC if:

• Your business has a physical presence of any kind in that state 
• You have employees in that state
• You regularly meet with clients, managers, or investors in that state
• You are licensed to do business in that state

Once you’ve registered as a foreign LLC, your business will need to follow the annual reporting requirements of that state and pay taxes in that state. 

In Closing

Filing an annual report in Massachusetts is relatively easy but crucial to smooth business operations.

Review all your business information and file your report on time to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.