Starting a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) in NY
Table of Contents:
Request authority to form the entity from the Office of Professions
File the Article of Organization with the NY Department of State
Complete registration with the Office of Professions (for all professionals other than attorneys)
Frequently Asked Questions about PLLC Formations in New York
Contact Pepitone Law for a free consultation about your plans and our services
If you’re a licensed professional in New York — like a therapist, doctor, architect, or attorney — you may be required to form a Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) rather than a traditional LLC. This step-by-step guide walks you through exactly how to form a PLLC in New York, including naming requirements, filing with the Department of State, publishing a legal notice, and maintaining compliance. Whether you’re just exploring your options or ready to launch your practice, this resource will help you navigate the PLLC formation process in New York with clarity and confidence.
Disclaimer
The information in this guide is not legal advice and is not intended to be 2relied upon as legal advice. The guide highlights some essential steps; it does not cover all the related laws and regulations. This guide was last updated on April 23, 2025 and some of the information may have since changed. If you have a legal issue, you should not rely on this information and instead speak to an attorney.
1. Determine if a New York PLLC is right for you
What is a PLLC in New York?
A Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) is a type of business structure designed for licensed professionals in New York. They are are typically used for health, design, and other licensed professions. Unlike a traditional LLC, a PLLC is required when the business is offering services that legally require a license. Forming a PLLC provides personal liability protection while maintaining compliance with New York’s licensing requirements.
Not sure if a PLLC is right for your profession? Contact Pepitone Law — we’ll help you navigate New York’s licensing requirements and entity options.
Who can form a PLLC? Single vs. multi-member rules
Before forming your PLLC, it’s important to know how your business structure impacts licensing and legal compliance. New York has different rules for single-member and multi-member PLLCs — especially when it comes to the types of services you’re allowed to offer.
Multi-member PLLCs may only provide services in one field, except for PLLCs formed by professional engineers, architects, landscape architects, geologists, and land surveyors. With some notable exceptions, single-member PLLCs may provide services in multiple fields if the individual member is properly licensed in each field.
Are there alternatives to a PLLC? PLLC vs PC in New York
In some cases, a Professional Corporation (PC) or Design Professional Corporation (DPC) may be a more appropriate structure for your needs. These alternatives offer different legal and financial implications depending on your profession, goals, and whether you plan to work solo or with others.
Consider alternate professional service entities such as a Professional Corporation (“PC”) or Design Professional Corporation (“DPC”). Consider the tax consequences of the different options and speak with a tax professional.
Understanding the differences between these structures can impact your tax filing, liability protections, and even who you're allowed to partner with. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Professional Corporation (PC): Often used by solo practitioners and firms with traditional ownership structures. PCs are subject to different formation and taxation requirements than PLLCs.
Design Professional Corporation (DPC): Created specifically for licensed design professionals (e.g., architects, engineers). DPCs allow for broader ownership flexibility, including non-licensed shareholders in certain roles.
Choosing the wrong structure could result in unnecessary fees, compliance issues, or even re-filing with the state.
For example, a DPC allows certain non-licensed individuals to hold ownership interests — something a traditional PLLC does not allow. Meanwhile, a PC might be better for attorneys who want a simpler structure without publication requirements.
Still unsure? Pepitone Law can help you compare options and structure your entity in a way that aligns with your practice’s values and legal obligations.
You might also want to explore the implications of the Corporate Transparency Act on entity formation and professional wills for regulated industries.
What if I already have an LLC or PLLC in another state?
Consider a foreign PLLC if you have an existing PLLC or LLC in another state. If you're moving to New York or expanding your practice here, you may be able to register your existing entity as a foreign PLLC. This allows you to operate in New York without dissolving your out-of-state business.
However, the registration process still requires you to meet the state’s licensing and compliance requirements. You’ll likely need:
A Certificate of Authority from the NYS Office of the Professions
Good standing documentation from your original state
Registration with the NY Department of State
Pepitone Law can help you determine whether foreign registration is right for you, and manage the paperwork so you're properly set up to practice in New York. If you're transferring or maintaining your existing entity, review our guide to basic legal maintenance in New York.
How Pepitone Law Can Help You Form the Right Entity
Choosing the right business structure in New York — whether it’s a PLLC, PC, DPC, or a foreign registration — requires more than just filling out forms. It’s about understanding licensing rules, tax implications, and long-term compliance.
Not sure where to start? Our New York PLLC Formation Checklist also breaks down all required steps and documents.
Pepitone Law helps licensed professionals confidently move through every step of this process, including:
Determining whether a PLLC is the best fit for your profession
Explaining single-member vs. multi-member rules
Comparing other professional entity types (PCs and DPCs)
Advising on foreign PLLC registration in NY
Taking care of filings, name searches, and regulatory steps
Contact Pepitone Law for a free consultation about your plans and our services.
2. Choose a name for your PLLC
New York PLLC naming requirements
Consider the restrictions on your business name. The State of New York has specific naming rules for PLLCs. Your name must:
End with "Professional Limited Liability Company" or "Limited Liability Company" or the abbreviation "P.L.L.C.", "PLLC", "L.L.C.", or "LLC"
Accurately reflect your licensed profession
Avoid misleading terms or implications
Comply with rules set by the Office of the Professions (for many licensed fields)
How to check if your PLLC name is available in New York
Before you fall in love with a name, you’ll need to check whether it’s already registered in New York. So you should choose a business name that is not already registered with the New York Department of Corporations.
To do this:
Use the Corporation & Business Entity Database maintained by the NY Department of State.
Search for your desired name using variations (with and without “PLLC,” abbreviations, punctuation, etc.).
Keep in mind: The Department of State requires names to be “distinguishable” from existing entities on file — even small similarities may result in rejection.
Pro tip: Even if a name appears available, it’s not officially approved until you file your Articles of Organization and receive confirmation from the Department of State.
3. Request authority to form the entity from the Office of Professions
Before filing your PLLC with the New York Department of State, you’ll need to get authorization from the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions (OP). This step ensures that your profession is properly licensed and approved to operate under a PLLC.
How to get a Certificate of Authority for a PLLC in New York
A Certificate of Authority is required by most licensed professionals (except attorneys) before submitting Articles of Organization. It proves that your business complies with New York’s rules for professional practice entities.
The Certificate must be obtained before you file with the NY Department of State, or your PLLC application may be rejected.
What documents do you need to apply for a Certificate of Authority?
Your application for a Certificate of Authority must include the following:
Articles of Organization (Form 1203)
Professional Corporations Contact Information Form
Affidavit PPE (attesting to license status of members)
Filing Fee: $10 per member, payable to the New York State Education Department
Make sure all documents are complete and consistent, especially member names and license numbers.
Where to mail your application for a Certificate of Authority
All documents and payment must be mailed to:
New York State Education Department
Division of Professional Licensing Services
Professional Corporations Unit
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12234-1000
Once approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Authority and a stamped copy of your Articles of Organization by mail. You’ll then submit those to the NY Department of State along with a certified copy request.
Filing Tips and Resources
To ensure your filing is accepted without delays, check the state’s official guides before mailing. Note specific filing instructions and filing tips.
Special rules for attorneys forming a PLLC
Note for attorneys forming a PLLC for their own practice: request a Certificate of Good Standing instead of a Certificate of Authority.
File the Article of Organization with the NY Department of State
Once you have the Certificate of Authority, file the Articles of Organization, the Certificate of Authority, and the Payment Authorization with a request for a certified copy with the New York State Department of State (filing fee of $200.00, $10.00 for certified copy).
What to file
You’ll need to include the following documents in your submission:
The Articles of Organization (using the NY Department of State form)
The Certificate of Authority (received from the NYSED Office of the Professions)
A completed Payment Authorization Form
A written request for a certified copy
Filing fees: $200 to file + $10 for a certified copy.
How to speed up the filing process
For fastest processing, request Expedited Handling. The Department of State offers three levels of Expedited Handling:
24-hour service: +$25
Same-day service: +$75
2-hour service: +$150
5. Complete registration with the Office of Professions (for all professionals other than attorneys)
Now it’s time to file the certified copy of the Articles of Organization with the Office of Professions.
If you're forming a New York PLLC and are not an attorney, you’ll need to complete this additional registration step. This applies to licensed professionals under the jurisdiction of the New York State Education Department’s Office of the Professions, such as:
Mental health counselors
Physical therapists
Architects and engineers
Social workers
And many more
If you're unsure whether this applies to you, check the full list here: NYSED Professions List
Step 1: Submit the certified copy
Once you’ve received your certified copy of the Articles of Organization back from the Department of State, you’ll need to submit it to the Office of the Professions at:
Mailing Address:
New York State Education Department
Division of Professional Licensing Services
Professional Corporations Unit
89 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12234-1000
Step 2: Confirm your registration
After mailing your documents, confirm your business is listed on the official professional business entity database.
You’ll be able to search by name and verify that your business is active and registered.
6. Publish notice of the formation of your PLLC
Why you need to publish your PLLC formation
New York law requires newly formed PLLCs to publish a notice of formation in two newspapers for six consecutive weeks. This step ensures your entity complies with Section 1203 of the NYS Limited Liability Company Law.
If you don’t complete this step and submit proof, your PLLC’s authority to do business may be suspended.
How to choose the right newspapers to publish your PLLC formation
Contact the County Clerk to find out which newspapers you must publish notice of your PLLC in. The Clerk will tell you which newspapers are eligible (typically one daily and one weekly). Contact the selected newspapers and request publication of your notice for six consecutive weeks (publication fees differ by county and newspaper).
What to include in your notice
The publication must include specific information, including:
PLLC name (exactly as filed)
Business address
County of office location
Statement that the PLLC was formed under Section 1203 of the LLC Law
Purpose of the business
Name and address for the Secretary of State (agent for service of process)
Whether your PLLC is managed by members or managers
If you're working with Pepitone Law, we can handle this for you. If you're doing it solo, be sure to confirm your exact language matches the Articles of Organization.
Submit your Certificate of Publication
Once your notice runs for six consecutive weeks:
The newspapers will send you affidavits of publication
Submit a Certificate of Publication with your proofs of publication from the newspapers with the New York Department of State (filing fee: $50.00).
7. Draft and adopt an Operating Agreement
What is a PLLC Operating Agreement?
An Operating Agreement is a legal document establishing the internal rules of the business. They typically include provisions on the business purpose, admitting members, capital contributions and distributions, and management structure. While it’s not filed with the state, it’s legally required under Section 417 of the NY LLC Law and should be in place within 90 days of forming your PLLC.
When to draft your PLLC Operating Agreement
You can draft and adopt the Operating Agreement when you file the Articles of Organization (you don’t have to wait for publication to be complete).
Why it matters (even for solo PLLCs)
Even if you’re a single-member PLLC, an Operating Agreement protects your limited liability status and outlines your rights, duties, and how your business is managed. It’s also often required by banks and insurers.
What should be included?
While every business is different, most PLLC Operating Agreements should cover:
Business name and purpose
Member roles and voting rights
Capital contributions
Profit and loss allocations
Management structure (member-managed or manager-managed)
Rules for admitting or removing members
Dissolution procedures
8. Maintain your PLLC in New York
Once your PLLC is up and running, don’t forget: ongoing compliance is key to staying in good legal standing with both the New York Department of State and the Office of the Professions.
File Biennial Statements with the NY Department of State
File Biennial Statements with the New York Department of State every two years to keep your registration active. This form includes basic info about your business and can be submitted online.
Renew your Professional Registration
File your Renewals with the Office of Professions. Professionals must renew their license and registration with the Office of the Professions (OP) — typically every 2–3 years, depending on the license type. Set reminders to avoid any lapse.
Report changes to the Office of the Professions
Moved your office? Added or removed a member? Changed your entity’s name? You must report material changes to OP in a timely manner. Report changes to the Office of Professions.
Learn more about long-term compliance
There’s more to maintenance than just paperwork. If you’re hiring employees, entering contracts, or expanding across state lines, make sure your entity is structured to handle it. You can find more information about maintaining your PLLC in our guide, Basic Legal Maintenance for New York Employers.
Frequently Asked Questions about PLLC Formations in New York
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A Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC) is a business entity designed for licensed professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and therapists. Unlike a traditional LLC, a PLLC requires approval from the New York State Education Department and must follow specific rules around ownership and naming.
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To form a PLLC in New York, you must:
Obtain a Certificate of Authority from the Office of the Professions
File Articles of Organization with the NY Department of State
Complete the publication requirement
Adopt an Operating Agreement
Each step must comply with New York PLLC formation rules.
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Your PLLC name must end with “Professional Limited Liability Company” or an approved abbreviation like “PLLC.” It must clearly reflect your licensed profession and be distinguishable from other business entities registered in New York.
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Typical costs include:
$200 for filing Articles of Organization
$10 for a certified copy
$50 for Certificate of Publication filing
~$300–$1,000 for newspaper publication (varies by county)
Additional costs apply for expedited filings and legal support.
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You must publish a legal notice of PLLC formation in two newspapers for six consecutive weeks. This notice must follow specific guidelines outlined in Section 1203 of NY’s LLC Law. Afterward, file a Certificate of Publication with the Department of State.
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Yes, but it’s not automatic. You’ll need to amend your business structure by filing updated formation documents and obtaining a Certificate of Authority. It's often faster to dissolve the LLC and create a PLLC from scratch.
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Yes. New York law requires every PLLC to adopt an Operating Agreement within 90 days of formation. This document outlines how your PLLC will be run, member rights, and what happens if your business dissolves.
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A PLLC is often preferred for flexible ownership and management, while a Professional Corporation (PC) follows stricter rules, especially for governance and taxation. Attorneys and solo practitioners sometimes choose a PC for simpler structure.
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Yes. You can register as a foreign PLLC in New York, but you’ll need to submit a Certificate of Authority, proof of good standing from your home state, and comply with New York’s professional licensing rules.
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While it's not legally required, working with a law firm like Pepitone Law ensures that your filings are correct, your entity is compliant, and your professional license is protected from costly errors.
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Therapists licensed by the NYS Office of the Professions can form a PLLC by getting a Certificate of Authority, filing Articles of Organization, publishing the PLLC notice, and adopting an Operating Agreement. Each member must hold a valid license and the PLLC can only offer services within their licensed scope.
If you're forming a PLLC for therapy services, our Mental Health Private Practice guide offers profession-specific tips.
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Yes. A PLLC in New York can hire employees, including administrative staff. However, only licensed individuals may provide professional services. Be sure to follow labor laws, carry required insurances, and clearly distinguish employees from PLLC members.
If you plan to hire staff, check our guide to employer responsibilities in New York.
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Yes. Just like other business entities, a New York PLLC must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS — even if it has only one member. An EIN is used for tax filing, opening business bank accounts, and payroll setup.
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It’s a document from the NYS Office of the Professions confirming your professional eligibility to form a PLLC. You must get this certificate before submitting your formation paperwork to the Department of State.
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For licensed professionals, yes. A traditional LLC can’t be used for regulated professions like therapy, medicine, or law. A PLLC meets those legal requirements and protects your license while still giving you limited liability.
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Costs vary by county and newspapers selected, but expect to pay between $300 and $1,000 for publishing your PLLC formation notice in two newspapers for six weeks. Working with a lawyer can often reduce the headache and help keep costs lower.
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The timeline can vary, but here's a rough breakdown:
Certificate of Authority: ~2–4 weeks
Articles of Organization: ~1–2 weeks with expedited filing
Publication: 6 consecutive weeks You can form a PLLC in about 8–10 weeks if everything is filed correctly and no delays occur.
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Your PLLC itself doesn’t need a separate business license, but all members must hold current professional licenses. Some professions may also require additional registration (e.g., DEA for prescribing providers, NPI for billing).
Contact Pepitone Law for a free consultation about your plans and our services
Pepitone Law provides hands-on support for licensed professionals forming and managing PLLCs in New York. Whether you're launching a new private practice or restructuring an existing entity, we’ll walk you through every step — and handle the paperwork so you don’t have to.
What we help with
Entity Selection & Naming Guidance
We can provide advice about the best business entity for your needs and an appropriate business name, and advice about your private practice and business operations tailored to your plans and preferences;
Full-Service PLLC Formation Management
We provide management of the PLLC formation process, including the publication requirement.
Regulatory Filings & Government IDs
Assistance with the business’s BOIR, EIN, NPI (if needed), and initial report to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance; and
Admin & Compliance Support
Information and advice about administrative matters like banking and credit, malpractice and other insurances, practicing in other states, recordkeeping, transferring clients from another practice, professional wills, identifying deceptive junk mail, registered agents, foreign entity registration, PLLC maintenance and reporting requirements, and more.
We strive to give you peace of mind throughout the process so that you can focus on building your practice.
Learn more about our services for specific professions
You can learn more about our specific services for certain licensed professionals here:
Contact Pepitone Law for a free consultation about your plans and our services.
