How To Transfer an LLC to Wyoming (Continuation vs. Domestication)

Transfer a Wyoming LLC

You can use the continuation or domestication process to transfer an LLC to Wyoming. Both methods require filing specific forms with the Wyoming Secretary of State and paying the associated fees. Domestication is the best process to transfer from one state to another.

Start in Wyoming specializes in forming and maintaining Wyoming LLCs managed by a local attorney. Contact us to have our experienced team handle transferring your company. 

Our attorney can also form a new Wyoming LLC. We have packages that include everything your business needs to be legally compliant, including a 1-hour consultation with an attorney, attorney-client privilege, and a U.S. office address with proof of address documents to open bank and payment processor accounts.  

Continuation vs. Domestication

There are two methods for moving your business to Wyoming: domestication and continuation. 

Domestication is solely for out-of-state entities. Entities formed in another country cannot domesticate.

Continuation is for an out-of-state or out-of-country entity.

Domestication is your best option if you’re moving from another U.S. state. It’s a streamlined process with less paperwork, making it the more efficient choice for most businesses.

Aside from the location, there isn’t much difference between the two. Continuation allows business owners to amend their articles during the process at no extra cost. However, the amendment fee with the Wyoming Secretary of State is $60, so this shouldn’t be a factor for most businesses. 

Those with companies outside of the U.S. will have to choose continuation. 

How to Transfer an LLC to Wyoming

To transfer an LLC to Wyoming, you’ll need to file for domestication or continuation with the Wyoming Secretary of State. You can then file for dissolution in your original state, and your LLC will be transferred to Wyoming. 

The process of continuation and domestication is similar but requires different forms and documents. But we’ll include both in our step-by-step guide below. 

  1. Gather and Certify Your Documents

You’ll need to gather documents from your current state. These documents are proof of your LLC’s existence and good standing.

The documents commonly required for both include:

  • A certified copy of the original Articles of Incorporation and any amendments. (This is sometimes referred to as articles of organization.) The certification must be within six months and by the proper officer of the state of formation. 
  • A certificate of good standing from the current state, dated no more than 30 days for domestication or 60 days for continuation before filing in Wyoming. 

For continuation, you’ll also need to include:

  • A copy of the company resolution authorizing the continuance of the statutory foundation into Wyoming. 
  • A copy of the dissolution from the current state will be required after your application for continuation has been approved. 

Draft a Resolution

A resolution serves as official proof that your business has agreed to transfer to Wyoming and accepts the new state’s regulations. 

A resolution is a required document for continuation. It’s not required for filing for domestication, but it can be a useful document to have, especially for multi-member LLCs. 

When drafting your resolution, you’ll need to:

  • State the intention to transfer to Wyoming
  • Include the effective date of the transfer
  • List all participating members and their voting rights
  • Specify any changes to the operating agreement
  • Document the acceptance of Wyoming’s laws
  • Obtain necessary signatures from authorized parties

Keep a copy of the signed resolution with your company records.

Registered Agent

Your LLC will also need to have a registered agent in Wyoming. You will need the details of this registered agent to file with the relevant transfer form. 

For a registered agent service managed by a local attorney, choose our Wyoming Registered Agent. We can handle the process of changing your registered agent to us. 

File with the Wyoming Secretary of State

Now that you have the documents ready, you can transfer your LLC to Wyoming. Fill out the relevant form and send it with the documents attached. 

You’ll need to pay the $100 state fee for domestication and the $250 state fee for continuation. 

To guarantee your filing is processed smoothly:

  • Verify your desired LLC name is available by doing a Wyoming business search
  • Submit signed documents
  • Include payment for all required fees
  • Provide a valid Wyoming registered agent address
  • Double-check all forms for accuracy and completeness

Once approved, you’ll receive your certificate. 

An approved Wyoming LLC means that you agree to abide by Wyoming’s state laws. For LLCs, this includes filing an annual report. We also recommend updating your operating agreement. 

Dissolve The LLC in The Original State

To complete the transfer process and avoid double taxation concerns, you must dissolve your LLC in the original state. 

Each state will have a different dissolution procedure, so check with the local Secretary of State.

  1. File Articles of Dissolution with your original state’s Secretary of State office, including all required forms and documentation specified by your state’s laws.
  2. Pay any outstanding tax obligations, including final state tax returns and business tax clearances required for dissolution.

Remember to maintain copies of all dissolution documents for your records.

Don’t cancel your registered agent service in your original state until you’ve received confirmation that the dissolution is complete.

How Long Does a Wyoming LLC Transfer Take?

The Wyoming LLC transfer process can take up to 15 business days with the Secretary of State. This is on top of any time it takes you to prepare documents. 

There’s no expedited filing in Wyoming. Submissions will be processed in the order they are received. 

A timeline for the transfer process could look like:

  • Document preparation: 1-2 days to gather and complete required forms
  • Certificate of Good Standing: 3-5 business days
  • Wyoming Secretary of State processing: 15 business days
  • Original state’s processing time: Varies by jurisdiction

To guarantee the fastest possible transfer:

  • Pre-gather all required documentation
  • Submit complete and accurate forms
  • Consider expedited processing when available
  • Maintain active communication with registered agents

You’ll need to account for additional time if you’re:

  • Updating operating agreements
  • Transferring business licenses and permits

How Much Does it Cost to Move an LLC to Wyoming?

Moving your LLC to Wyoming costs $100 for domestication and $250 for continuation with the Secretary of State. Costs for documents and dissolution from the original state will vary. A registered agent will cost $125. 

What About My Tax Situation, EIN, and Bank Accounts?

Your LLC will retain its tax information, EIN, and bank account, but you will likely need to update your status with the relevant authorities. This is the main advantage of transferring an LLC to Wyoming over starting a new one.  

We recommend speaking with a tax professional before moving your LLC. 

Tax Considerations:

  • You’ll maintain your federal tax status and obligations.
  • Wyoming has no state income tax, but you may still owe taxes in other states where you operate.
  • You must file final tax returns in your original state.
  • Notify the IRS about your new Wyoming address.

EIN Status:

  • Keep your existing EIN – it stays with your LLC.
  • Update the IRS with your new business location.
  • Maintain your current tax classification (e.g., partnership, single-member).

Banking Updates:

  • Your existing bank accounts remain valid.
  • Notify your bank about the domestication.
  • Provide updated operating agreement and Wyoming documentation.
  • Consider opening additional Wyoming-based accounts if beneficial.

Remember to:

  • Update payment processors and merchant accounts.
  • Revise billing addresses on all accounts.
  • Review state-specific tax requirements for any other states where you conduct business.

What are the Benefits of Transferring an LLC to Wyoming?

Businesses choose Wyoming for its combination of financial and legal advantages. When you move your LLC to Wyoming, you’ll benefit from the state’s business-friendly environment and strong privacy protections. 

These advantages can impact your company’s bottom line while providing improved security.

  1. Tax Benefits: You won’t pay state income tax, corporate income tax, or franchise tax in Wyoming. 
  2. Asset Protection: Wyoming’s laws protect your personal assets from business liabilities including charging order protection which shields LLC members from creditors.
  3. Privacy Advantages: Wyoming doesn’t require public disclosure of LLC members or managers, keeping your ownership information confidential and secure from competitors.
  4. Cost-Effective Operations: You’ll pay the state just $60 in annual fees, compared to hundreds or thousands in other states.

Want To Work With A Wyoming LLC Attorney?

Working with Start in Wyoming means you get an experienced local attorney by your side. Start an LLC in Wyoming with a registered agent, company formation, and a U.S. office address.