²ÊºçƵµÀ

How to Register a Delaware Business Online

Register Your Business Now!

It's easy to register a business online with Harvard Business Services, Inc. When it comes to online business formations in Delaware, you'll have the opportunity to get your business started faster, with less hassle and lower cost. You can start the Delaware business registration process online or reach out to our team if you have any questions.

Can I register my business online?

Yes. Most states (Delaware included) offer digital filing systems that allow business owners to form an ²ÊºçƵµÀ, corporation, or other business entity without mailing paperwork or visiting a government office. Depending on where you register, you may be able to check business name availability, file formation documents, appoint a registered agent, pay state filing fees, and receive confirmation electronically as well.

One of the easiest ways to form a business is through our online portal. You can incorporate and register your business online, over the phone at 1-800-345-CORP, via fax at 302-645-1280, or through the mail by sending your documents to 16192 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE, 19958.

Types of Business Entities

Before you register a business online, you’ll need to decide which type of entity best suits your business. Delaware offers a wide range of business entity options, which is one reason it is such a popular state for business formation. Through the Delaware Division of Corporations, business owners can form or register entities such as corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships, statutory trusts, and more. Some of the most popular Delaware business entities are:

  • Limited Liability Company – A Delaware ²ÊºçƵµÀ is one of the most common choices for small businesses and startups. It offers liability protection, flexible management, and fewer formalities than a corporation.
  • Corporation – A Delaware corporation is often used by larger companies and businesses that plan to raise outside investment. Corporations may issue stock and have a more formal structure with directors, officers, and shareholders.
  • Limited Partnership – A Delaware limited partnership may be useful for investment funds, real estate ventures, and businesses with both general and limited partners.

You can read about many of the most popular Delaware business entities on our website.

Business Name Check

Before starting your Delaware business registration online, you’ll need to choose a business name that is available for use. Your business name typically must include the required entity ending, such as “²ÊºçƵµÀ,” “Limited Liability Company,” “Inc.,” or “Corporation,” depending on the structure you choose.

Once you have a name in mind, you can perform a Delaware Business Entity Search to see if the name is available. This helps confirm that your preferred name is not already being used by another Delaware entity and is not too similar to an existing name. You may also want to search domain names, trademarks, and social media handles to make sure the name works for your broader brand. If the name is available, you can move forward with your formation filing or reserve the name if you are not ready to register yet.

Which State to Register Your Business

Some business owners register their business in the state where they live or where the company will primarily operate. This is sometimes the simplest option because the business may already need to pay taxes, obtain licenses, and comply with local rules in that state. Forming in your home state can also help avoid extra costs, such as foreign qualification fees or maintaining a registered agent in another state.

However, many businesses choose to form in Delaware. Delaware is especially popular for ²ÊºçƵµÀs and corporations because it offers flexible business laws, a well-established court system for business disputes, and strong familiarity among investors. Startups that plan to raise venture capital often prefer Delaware corporations, while many small businesses and holding companies choose Delaware ²ÊºçƵµÀs for flexibility.

Still, Delaware is not automatically the best choice for every business. At Harvard Business Services, Inc., we form businesses in all 50 states, so we’re happy to assist however necessary.

Choosing a Registered Agent

To keep a Delaware business compliant, you must maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in Delaware. A registered agent is responsible for receiving official legal documents, state notices, tax correspondence, and service of process on behalf of the business. A reliable registered agent will help keep track of documents and notices that could otherwise lead to penalties or loss of good standing if missed. When forming a Delaware ²ÊºçƵµÀ, corporation, or other entity, you’ll need to list your registered agent in the formation documents and keep that information current over time.

If your company is physically located in Delaware, you may be able to act as your own registered agent, as long as you meet the state’s requirements. However, many businesses still hire a professional Delaware registered agent service.

Harvard Business Services, Inc. offers registered agent services in Delaware and in all other states. You can online.

FAQs About Registering a Business Online

How much does it cost to register a business online?

This ultimately depends on the type of entity you’re forming and any add-on services you’ve included. For example, Delaware requires a $110 state filing fee for a corporation or an ²ÊºçƵµÀ. However, if you start a business with Harvard Business Services Inc., our formation packages include the filing fee, your first year's $50 Delaware Registered Agent Service fee, and a variety of other perks. This is a great opportunity for business owners to save money on their new company.

How long does it take to register a business online?

Processing times can vary when forming an ²ÊºçƵµÀ or corporation, especially during busy seasons. Keep in mind that requests with errors may be delayed, so double-check your documents before submitting anything. At Harvard Business Services, Inc., expedited options are available for an added fee.

Should you register yourself or use a service?

You can register a Delaware business yourself if you understand the forms, fees, and compliance steps. However, many owners use a formation or registered agent service to reduce mistakes and keep filings organized. A service can be especially helpful if you are forming from outside Delaware.

Register with Harvard Business Services, Inc.

Ready to register your Delaware business online? The process is easy when you form your company online with Harvard Business Services, Inc. We can help you choose the right type of entity, complete the required Delaware filing, and help you stay on track from formation to compliance. Start your business with confidence and register your business online today.

Form a Delaware Company Online

Since 1981, Harvard Business Services, Inc. has helped form over 400,000 Delaware corporations and ²ÊºçƵµÀs for people all over the world.

Registered Agent Service

Harvard Business Services, Inc. guarantees your annual Delaware Registered Agent Fee will remain fixed at $50 per company, per year, for the life of your company.

400K+
COMPANIES
FORMED
40+
YEARS IN
BUSINESS