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

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 Missouri?

Missouri does not require a state-level business license, but individual cities and counties may have their own requirements. Check with your local government for specific licensing needs.

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 Missouri?

The LLC filing fee is $50. 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 $150.

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 Missouri. 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 Missouri 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.

Missouri Business Name Generator

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

Generate Business Names for Missouri

Describe your business idea

Choose naming style

Professional & corporate

Why Start a Business in Missouri?

$50

Filing Fee

3-5

Processing (days)

550K

Total Businesses

60K/yr

New Businesses

Very low filing fee ($50)

No annual report required

Central US location

Low cost of living and business

Starting a Business in Missouri

Top Cities for Business

Kansas City508,090
St. Louis301,578
Springfield169,176
Columbia126,254
Independence123,011

Popular Industries

Agriculture
Manufacturing
Healthcare
Transportation
Finance

Cost to Start a Business in Missouri

LLC Filing Fee$50

Name Reservation (optional)$25 for 60 days

Business License (varies by city)$50-500

Estimated Total First Year$150

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Missouri Tax Overview

Missouri has income tax rates from 0-4.95%. Corporate tax is 4%. Sales tax is 4.225% state plus local.

Missouri 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 Missouri

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

restaurant

Gateway Table
Missouri Cuisine
Kansas City Kitchen
Midwest Dining
St. Louis Eats
Local Flavors

barbershop

Kansas City Cuts
Premium Grooming
Gateway Barbers
Classic Style
Missouri Shave
Expert Service

construction

Missouri Builders
Quality Construction
Gateway Build
Building MO
KC Construction
Trusted Partners

consulting

Kansas City Strategy
Business Growth
Gateway Advisors
Strategic Solutions
Missouri Consulting
Expert Guidance

retail

Missouri Mercantile
Local Goods
Gateway Market
Quality Products
KC Supply
Premium Retail

Home Services

Missouri Home Care
Complete Solutions
Gateway Services
Professional Care
KC Home Pros
Expert Maintenance

technology

Kansas City Tech
Innovation
Gateway Digital
Tech Solutions
Missouri Software
Custom Development

healthcare

Missouri Wellness
Quality Healthcare
Gateway Medical
Patient Care
KC Health
Trusted Providers

Real Estate

Missouri Properties
Dream Homes
Gateway Realty
Expert Service
KC Living
Premium Properties

fitness

Kansas City Fitness
Peak Performance
Gateway Strong
Community Fitness
Missouri Athletics
Elite Training

Official Missouri Business Resources

Missouri Secretary of State

Business registration

Missouri Department of Revenue

Tax information

Missouri SBDC

Business counseling

How to Register a Business in Missouri

Annual Compliance Requirements

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

No annual report required
Maintain registered agent
Pay state taxes
Local licenses as needed

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 Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Missouri Secretary of State and consult with qualified professionals before making business decisions.