Short answer: File Certificate of Authority with the West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division for $150, and name a West Virginia registered agent.
We've pulled these figures from the West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division's own pages. If something's changed since our last check, the state's portal wins, so it's worth a quick look before you pay.
Registering an out-of-state LLC in West Virginia
File Certificate of Authority with the West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division ($150). You'll usually need a certificate of good standing from your home state and a West Virginia registered agent.
Secretary of State acts as the default agent, though listing a private agent is highly advised. If appointed, the agent must maintain a physical West Virginia street address (no PO boxes).
How West Virginia compares
West Virginia's foreign LLC registration fee is $150. That's the 19th highest of 47 jurisdictions we track. The national median is $150, right where West Virginia sits.
| State | Fee | National rank (1 = highest) |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $150 | 19 of 47 |
| Kentucky | $90 | 42 of 47 |
| North Carolina | $250 | 9 of 47 |
| Ohio | $99 | 41 of 47 |
| Virginia | $100 | 33 of 47 |
| Indiana | $107 | 30 of 47 |
West Virginia fees that apply here
| Filing | State fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Report | $25 | annual, January 1 to June 30 |
| Certificate of Authority | $150 | For LLCs formed in another state |
Foreign LLC registration: West Virginia questions
Do I need to register my out-of-state LLC in West Virginia?
If your LLC is "transacting business" in West Virginia (for example, an office, employees or ongoing operations there), you generally must register as a foreign LLC with the West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division.
How much does foreign LLC registration cost in West Virginia?
$150 to file Certificate of Authority.
Does a foreign LLC need a registered agent in West Virginia?
Yes. Every registered LLC needs an agent with a physical address in West Virginia. Secretary of State acts as the default agent, though listing a private agent is highly advised. If appointed, the agent must maintain a physical West Virginia street address (no PO boxes).
Does a foreign LLC file the West Virginia annual report too?
Generally yes. Registered foreign LLCs usually carry the same Annual Report obligation. Confirm the foreign LLC fee with the state.
Sources and verification
Last checked against official state sources on . States change fees with little notice, so confirm on the filing portal before you pay. How we verify.