How long does it take to register a business in Arkansas?

Processing times vary: 3-5 business days. Online filings are typically faster than mail submissions. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Do I need a business license in Arkansas?

Yes, most cities in Arkansas require a general business license. Requirements vary by location and industry. Contact your local city or county clerk's office for specific requirements.

Can I use my personal name as my business name?

Yes, you can use your personal name as your business name. For an LLC, you'll need to add "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company" to the end. However, using a unique business name often provides better branding opportunities and legal protection.

What if my desired business name is already taken?

If your preferred name is unavailable, you have several options: 1) Choose a different name, 2) Add descriptive words to make it unique, 3) Use a different LLC suffix (LLC, L.L.C., etc.), or 4) Consider filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) name while keeping a different legal name.

How much does it cost to start a business in Arkansas?

The LLC filing fee is $45. Annual fees are $150. Additional costs include business licenses ($50-500), registered agent fees ($50-300/year if using a service), and other startup expenses. Total first-year costs typically range from $300.

Do I need a trademark for my business name?

While not required, trademark registration provides nationwide protection for your business name. Registering your LLC with the state only protects your name within Arkansas. If you plan to expand beyond the state or want stronger legal protection, consider applying for a federal trademark with the USPTO.

Can I change my business name later?

Yes, you can change your LLC name by filing an amendment with the Arkansas Secretary of State. This typically costs $20-100 and takes a few weeks to process. However, changing your name can be expensive when you consider updating all your marketing materials, domain, signage, and legal documents.

Arkansas Business Name Generator

Generate unique business names for your Arkansas LLC or startup. Get AI-powered suggestions tailored to Arkansas businesses and local market.

Generate Business Names for Arkansas

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Arkansas?

$45

Filing Fee

3-5

Processing (days)

280K

Total Businesses

30K/yr

New Businesses

Very low filing fee ($45)

Home to Walmart HQ

Low cost of living

Growing Northwest Arkansas tech hub

Starting a Business in Arkansas

Top Cities for Business

Little Rock202,591
Fort Smith89,142
Fayetteville93,949
Springdale86,606
Jonesboro78,576

Popular Industries

Agriculture
Manufacturing
Retail
Healthcare
Transportation

Cost to Start a Business in Arkansas

LLC Filing Fee$45

Annual Report Fee$150/year

Name Reservation (optional)$25 for 120 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$300

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Arkansas Tax Overview

Arkansas has income tax rates from 0-4.4%. Corporate tax is 1-5.1%. Sales tax is 6.5% state plus local.

Arkansas Business Name Requirements

Must include "LLC" or "Limited Liability Company"
Must be distinguishable

Restricted Words: The following words cannot be used without special approval:

Bank, Trust, Insurance

Business Name Ideas for Arkansas

Explore 30 pre-generated business name ideas across popular industries. Use these as inspiration or starting points for your own unique name.

restaurant

Natural State Table
Arkansas Cuisine
Little Rock Kitchen
Southern Dining
Razorback Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Little Rock Cuts
Premium Grooming
Natural State Barbers
Classic Style
Arkansas Shave
Expert Service

construction

Arkansas Builders
Quality Construction
Natural State Build
Building AR
Little Rock Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Little Rock Strategy
Business Growth
Natural State Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Arkansas Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Arkansas Mercantile
Local Goods
Natural State Market
Quality Products
Little Rock Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Arkansas Home Care
Complete Solutions
Natural State Services
Professional Care
Little Rock Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Little Rock Tech
Innovation
Natural State Digital
Tech Solutions
Arkansas Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Arkansas Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Natural State Medical
Patient Care
Little Rock Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Arkansas Properties
Dream Homes
Natural State Realty
Expert Service
Little Rock Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Little Rock Fitness
Peak Performance
Natural State Strong
Community Fitness
Arkansas Athletics
Elite Training

Official Arkansas Business Resources

Arkansas Secretary of State

Business registration

AR Department of Finance

Tax information

Arkansas SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Arkansas

Annual Compliance Requirements

After forming your Arkansas LLC, you'll need to maintain compliance with these ongoing requirements:

File Annual Franchise Tax Report ($150)
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
Obtain local licenses

Check Domain Availability

Enter your business name to search for available domains

Business name

Opens GoDaddy search in a new tab

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Tools for Arkansas Business Owners

Self-Employment Tax

Calculate SE tax liability

Profit Margin Calculator

Calculate your profit margins

S-Corp Salary

Optimize salary vs distribution

Generate Names for Nearby States

Ready to Launch Your Arkansas Business?

Jupid AI Accountant handles everything from LLC formation to ongoing tax compliance. Focus on growing your business while we handle the paperwork.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Information is accurate as of 2026-01. Always verify current requirements with the Arkansas Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.