What is a publication requirement, really?

The practical bit

Once the notice has run, somebody files proof of publication with the state. Until the state has that proof, your formation may not be treated as finished. Hold on to the receipt from the paper so you can answer questions later without scrambling.

You can hire help, but you do not have to. If you handle it yourself, set one reminder for when the notice finishes and another for when you will send the proof, so nothing slips.

The state picture

3 states ask for a published notice, and what they say is below. The steps aren't identical everywhere, since each state sets its own schedule and its own rules about newspapers, so rely on your own state's entry and phone its filing office if something reads unclearly.

• Arizona: Publication: a notice runs three times within 60 days unless the statutory agent is in a county of more than 800,000 people, where the Commission posts it instead.
• Nebraska: Publication: a notice runs for three weeks in a local legal newspaper, then proof is filed for $25 online ($30 in office).
• New York: Publication: within 120 days, a notice runs for six weeks in two county newspapers (the papers set their own charges), then a Certificate of Publication is filed for $50.

Where it comes up

It shows up here: LLC filing rules by state, Do you need an agent? By state, Using your LLC in another state.