Step 1: Forming Your LLC

1.1 Choose a Business Name:

• Ensure your business name is unique; check availability through the Louisiana Secretary of State's database on the geauxBIZ website.
• The name must include "LLC," "L.L.C.," or "Limited Liability Company."

1.2 Register Your Business:

• Visit geauxBIZ: Go to geaux.biz to start the registration process.
• Create an Account: If you don't have one, register for a geauxBIZ account.
• Select LLC Formation: Choose to form a new LLC, and fill out the online application form.
  • Provide your business name, address, and details about your registered agent (who must be located in Louisiana).
  • Specify the purpose of your LLC, which could be "to provide family medicine services."

1.3 Appoint a Registered Agent:

• This person or entity must have a physical address in Louisiana to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC.

1.4 Submit Articles of Organization:

• Filing Fee: Pay the $100 filing fee (as of last known update, check for current fee).
• Online Submission: Complete and submit your Articles of Organization through geauxBIZ.

1.5 Operating Agreement:

• Although not required by Louisiana law, it's advisable to draft an LLC Operating Agreement to outline management structure, member roles, and operational procedures.

Step 2: Obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

• Visit IRS Website: Go to irs.gov and apply for an EIN online.
  • Application Process:
    • Ensure you have your SSN or ITIN ready.
    • Complete the online EIN Assistant which will ask for your LLC's name, address, and the reason for applying for an EIN (business is starting).
    • Once submitted, you'll receive your EIN immediately.
  • EIN Use: This number is crucial for banking, tax filings, and hiring employees.

Step 3: State and Local Business Requirements

• Tax Registration:
  • State Tax ID: Register with the Louisiana Department of Revenue through geauxBIZ or directly at louisiana.gov for state tax obligations, including sales tax if applicable.
• Local Permits and Licenses: Check with your local government for any additional permits or zoning requirements for operating a medical practice.

Step 4: Setting Up Payroll (If Hiring Employees)

4.1 Federal Payroll Requirements:

• EIN: You'll already have this from Step 2.
• Form W-4: Have new employees complete this to calculate federal income tax withholding.
• Form I-9: Verify employment eligibility for each new hire.
• Federal Tax Deposits: Use EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System) for paying federal taxes.

4.2 Louisiana Payroll Requirements:

• State Withholding:
  • Register with the Louisiana Workforce Commission for state income tax withholding. This can be done via geauxBIZ under the "Louisiana Tax Account Registration" section.
  • Form L-4: Required for state withholding from employee wages.
• Unemployment Insurance:
  • Register with the Louisiana Workforce Commission for a state unemployment insurance account.
  • File quarterly wage reports and pay unemployment taxes.
• Workers' Compensation:
  • Obtain workers' compensation insurance as it's mandatory in Louisiana if you have employees.
• Payroll Services:
  • Consider using a payroll service or software to manage these obligations, especially if you're new to payroll. Services like ADP, Paychex, or even Square can handle federal and state filings.

4.3 Payroll Setup:

• Payroll Schedule: Decide on weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly pay periods.
• Employee Records: Maintain accurate records of wages, withholdings, and benefits.
• Direct Deposit or Checks: Set up a system for paying employees.