Utah state law does not require LLCs to adopt a written operating agreement. However, any good lawyer will recommend that you create a written operating agreement as one of the first actions of starting your Utah LLC.
Operating agreements reinforce the limited liability protection of an LLC. Because they delineate the LLC as a separate legal entity and define its adherence to corporate formalities, they can protect members from personal liability for the LLC's legal obligations and debts.
Ing to the IRS, a single-member limited liability company is a "disregarded entity", meaning there is no separation between the business and its owner. By default, the IRS taxes it the same as a sole proprietorship.
Members could also recruit a new member and add them to the ranks. Whatever may be your rationale, you want to know if it is something you can do with your Limited Liability Company; and the answer is yes. Therefore, you can give away your LLC's equity.
An operating agreement isn't mandatory.
While not always legally required, operating agreements play a critical role in the smooth operation, legal protection, and financial clarity of LLCs. Their absence can lead to governance by default state laws, management, and financial disorganization, and increased legal vulnerabilities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your LLC Operating Agreement Overlooking the Need for an Operating Agreement. Vague or Incomplete Agreements. Failing to Plan for Disputes and Dissolution. Ignoring State-Specific Requirements. Inconsistency with Other Business Documents. Not Updating the Agreement. DIY without Professional Advice.
Once you (and the other LLC Members, if applicable) sign the Operating Agreement, then it becomes a legal document. Can I write my own Operating Agreement? Yes, but we recommend using an Operating Agreement template. An Operating Agreement is a legal document.
Having an operating agreement for a single-member LLC helps demonstrate the legal separation between the business and the owner, reinforcing the member's personal limited liability protection in the event of a lawsuit against the company.
Generally, you should take the following steps: Choose a name for your SMLLC. Decide your company's management structure. Register your SMLLC. Draft an operating agreement. Apply for the required licenses, permits, and registrations. Obtain an employer identification number (EIN). Get insurance coverage.