How to Dissolve a Business in Nebraska | Essential Steps

Dissolve Nebraska LLC

Deciding to dissolve a Limited Liability Company can be difficult for business owners. Still, it is sometimes necessary due to changes in the business landscape, financial challenges, or personal reasons. Dissolving a business requires specific steps and regulations to complete the process correctly and legally. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to dissolve a business in Nebraska.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you easily dissolve your business. You must be guided by all the factors gathered in this article.

If you are starting an LLC in Nebraska, having an operating agreement is one of the key requirements in dissolving a business. Before starting the legal paperwork, there are a few things to remember. Initially, confirm that all LLC members agree with closing the business. Once everyone is ready, voting should be used to document everyone’s assent. They must vote in favor of the dissolution before the legal procedure may begin. The procedures for the dissolution are listed below.

How to Dissolve a Business in Nebraska

Dissolving a business in Nebraska requires following specific steps to ensure a smooth and legally compliant process. The process usually includes the following steps:

Step 1: Make the Decision

Before dissolving your business, ensure this decision is right for your Nebraska business. Consider discussing the decision with your business partners, members, or legal counsel to weigh the pros and cons and determine if dissolving the business is best.

Step 2: Hold a Formal Vote

Once you’ve decided to dissolve your Nebraska business, you’ll need to hold a formal vote among the members to approve the dissolution. This step is important because it ensures that all members know and agree to the decision to dissolve the business.

To hold a formal vote:

  • Review your Nebraska Operating Agreement to determine the required voting procedures, such as the percentage of affirmative votes needed for approval.
  • Notify all Nebraska members of the upcoming vote and give them sufficient time to review the matter and make an informed decision.
  • Conduct the vote according to the procedures outlined in your operating agreement.
  • Record the vote results in your business meeting minutes or a written resolution.

If most members approve the dissolution, you can proceed with the dissolution process.

Get a Professional Service

It’s important to get legal assistance when dissolving an LLC. With that, you must have a Registered Agent. Ensure that the Registered Agent you choose is qualified and legal since they will file the Article of Dissolution for your LLC. We reviewed the Best Registered Agent Services in Nebraska for you to check out.

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Step 3: Settle the Outstanding Debts and Liabilities

You must settle all outstanding debts and liabilities before dissolving your Nebraska business. This includes paying off loans, settling pending lawsuits, paying owed taxes, and fulfilling any remaining contractual obligations. You can inform your Nebraska Business Attorney to ensure it is settled.

To settle your Nebraska business’ debts and liabilities:

  • Review your business’ financial records to identify all outstanding debts and liabilities.
  • Contact creditors, lenders, and other parties to whom your business owes money or obligations, and arrange for payment or settlement.
  • If your business does not have sufficient funds or assets to cover all outstanding debts and liabilities, consult with legal counsel to determine the best course of action for settling these obligations.

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Step 4: Distribute the Remaining Assets to Members

Once all debts and liabilities have been settled, you can distribute any remaining assets to the business members. Your operating agreement should do this or, if no such agreement exists, in proportion to each member’s ownership interest in the business.

To distribute assets:

  • Determine the fair market value of the remaining assets, such as real estate, equipment, or inventory. 
  • Calculate each member’s ownership interest in the business based on the operating agreement or their initial capital contribution.
  • Distribute the assets to each member according to their ownership interest.
  • Keep detailed records of all asset distributions for tax and legal purposes.

Step 5: File the Articles of Dissolution

After settling debts and distributing assets, you’ll need to file the Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State to dissolve your Nebraska business officially. This document provides the state with notice that your business is ceasing operations and will no longer conduct business.

To file the Articles of Dissolution:

  1. Obtain the appropriate form from the Nebraska Secretary of State‘s website. Access the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website and navigate to the Business Services section for the required forms and instructions.
  2. Fill out the Articles of Dissolution Form with the required information, including your Nebraska business name, the date of dissolution, and any other necessary details.
  3. Pay the filing fee of $10 in the Nebraska Secretary of State’s office.
  4. Submit the completed form and payment to the Nebraska Secretary of State’s office, either by mail or online, depending on your Nebraska’s filing options.

Once your Articles of Dissolution have been processed and approved, your Nebraska business will officially be dissolved.

Mail to: 
Nebraska Secretary of State
Robert B. Evnen, Secretary of State, P.O. Box 94608, Lincoln, NE 685098.

Filling Fee:
$10

Step 6: Notify the IRS and Government Agencies

After dissolving your business with the Nebraska Secretary of State, you’ll need to notify the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other Nebraska government agencies of the dissolution. This is important to ensure your business complies with tax laws and other regulations.

To notify the IRS of the dissolution:

  1. File your final federal tax return using Form 1065 and check the box indicating that it is the final return for your business.
  2. Cancel your Employer Identification Number (EIN) in Nebraska by mailing a letter to the IRS at the address where you filed your tax return. Include your EIN, business name, and reason for cancellation in the letter.
  3. Update your Nebraska business status with any other relevant government agencies, such as the Nebraska Department of Revenue, Department of Labor, and local licensing and permitting offices.

Step 7: Cancel Licenses, Permits, and Insurance Policies

To fully dissolve your Nebraska business, you’ll need to cancel any business licenses, permits, and insurance policies associated with your business. This may include Nebraska Business Licenses, professional licenses, sales tax permits, and any other permits required for your industry.

You must contact the issuing agency to cancel your licenses and permits and follow their specific cancellation procedures. You should also contact your insurance provider to cancel any remaining business insurance policies. With the cancellation of the mentioned licenses, permits, and Business Insurances in Nebraska, you also need to remove a Registered Agent since he won’t be able to continue filing documents for your business unless you are the Registered Agent of your business. 

Step 8: Maintain Records of the Dissolution Process

For legal and tax purposes, it’s important to maintain detailed records of the steps taken to dissolve your Nebraska business. This includes documentation of the formal vote to dissolve the business, debt settlements, asset distribution records, and copies of filed state and federal tax returns.

Keep these records for at least seven years, as they may be needed in the event of an IRS audit or other legal issues arising from the dissolution.

Cost of Dissolving an LLC in Nebraska

The cost of dissolving an LLC in Nebraska can vary based upon various factors. The Nebraska Articles of the Dissolution filing fee cost $10. Other costs include any outstanding taxes or debts the business owes and potential costs for settling business contracts or selling business assets.

It’s also important to factor in professional fees, such as if you hire an attorney or accountant to assist with the dissolution process. After the LLC is dissolved, the remaining company assets are divided among the members. The exact breakdown of these costs can often be complex and will depend on the specific circumstances of the LLC, so consulting with a legal or financial advisor can be helpful.

Reasons Why an LLC in Nebraska Dissolves

There are numerous reasons why an LLC in Nebraska dissolves, and these reasons could impact other LLCs. It is best to understand the why’s and how to deal with it rather than knowing that your LLC may dissolve sooner or later. Here is the list of possible reasons why an LLC dissolves.

  1. Expired Duration: In Nebraska, an LLC will automatically dissolve if it reaches the end of its defined duration stated in the Articles of Organization.
  2. Member Vote: An LLC may dissolve in Nebraska if the members vote for dissolution. Usually, the LLC Operating Agreement outlines the percentage of member votes required to dissolve the LLC.
  3. Judicial Dissolution: A court in Nebraska may order the dissolution of an LLC if it is in the best interests of the members, especially in cases of fraud, illegal activities, or oppressive behavior.
  4. Bankruptcy: If the LLC becomes insolvent and cannot pay its debts, it may be forced into bankruptcy. This usually leads to the dissolution of the LLC.
  5. Non-compliance: If the LLC does not comply with state laws or fails to meet legal requirements, such as filing annual reports or paying taxes, the state may forcibly dissolve the LLC.
  6. Merger or Consolidation: If the LLC in Nebraska merges or consolidates with another company and the LLC is not the surviving entity, it will be dissolved.
  7. Death or Withdrawal of a Member: Unless specified otherwise in the Operating Agreement, the death, withdrawal, bankruptcy, or incompetence of a member may cause the LLC to dissolve.

Please note that the process for dissolution typically includes settling all business debts, distributing any remaining assets among the members, and filing a formal notice of dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State.

After the Nebraska LLC Dissolution

Once your Nebraska business has been dissolved, it typically cannot be reinstated or “taken back” after a few years. Instead, you would need to form a new LLC in Nebraska if you wish to operate a business under a limited liability company structure again.

To create a new Nebraska LLC, you would need to follow the standard formation process, which generally includes the following:

  • Choosing a Unique Business Name: Ensure that another business does not already use the name you choose in Nebraska and complies with state-specific naming requirements.
  • Appointing a Registered Agent: Designate a Registered Agent who will be responsible for receiving legal correspondence on behalf of your LLC.
  • Filing Certificate of Organization: Submit the Certificate of Organization with the Nebraska Secretary of State’s office, along with the required filing fee.
  • Creating an Operating Agreement: Draft an agreement outlining the rules and regulations governing your new LLC, including member roles, ownership percentages, and management structure.
  • Obtaining Necessary Licenses and Permits: Apply for any required business licenses, permits, and tax registrations with the appropriate state and local authorities.
  • Registering with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS): Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which will be necessary for tax purposes and other business activities.

Availability of the Business Name

When a business is in Nebraska was dissolved, the business name becomes available for other business owners to use after a certain period. However, the specific rules and regulations regarding the availability of a dissolved business name can vary. Keep in mind that even if the name becomes available, other factors, such as trademarks or potential confusion with existing businesses, may still impact the ability of another business owner to use the name.

FAQs

How do I dissolve my Nebraska LLC business?
To dissolve an LLC in Nebraska, you need to file Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
What is the cost to dissolve a Nebraska LLC?
The filing fee to dissolve a Nebraska LLC is $10.
Can I dissolve my Nebraska LLC online?
Yes, you can dissolve your Nebraska LLC online by filing Articles of Dissolution through the Nebraska Secretary of State website.
What happens if I don’t properly dissolve my Nebraska LLC?
You will continue to be responsible for any taxes or other regulatory compliance requirements until your LLC is properly dissolved.
Do I need to give notice to creditors before dissolving my Nebraska LLC?
Yes, if you have pending debts or obligations, you should give notice to your creditors before dissolving your LLC in Nebraska.
Does dissolving my Nebraska LLC also cancel my EIN?
No, it is a separate process to cancel your EIN with the IRS.
Are there any tax implications for dissolving my Nebraska LLC?
You may need to file final tax returns and pay any outstanding taxes before dissolving your LLC in Nebraska.
What happens to any remaining assets or liabilities once my Nebraska LLC is dissolved?
Remaining assets will be distributed among members according to their contribution percentages, and liabilities will need to be paid off before final distributions can be made.
Can I dissolve my Nebraska LLC if I am in debt?
Yes, it is possible to dissolve your Nebraska LLC while in debt, but all creditors must be paid before distributing any remaining assets.
How long does it take to dissolve a Nebraska LLC?
It typically takes around 5-10 business days for the Nebraska Secretary of State to process your Articles of Dissolution.
Can a Nebraska LLC dissolve voluntarily or involuntarily?
Yes, an LLC in Nebraska can be dissolved either voluntarily or involuntarily, depending on the circumstances.
How do I notify the Nebraska taxing authorities that my LLC is dissolved?
You should notify the Nebraska Department of Revenue that your LLC is dissolved and provide them with any necessary documentation.
Can a Nebraska LLC dissolve if it has outstanding liabilities to the state?
No, outstanding liabilities must first be taken care of before a Nebraska LLC can dissolve.
What is the process for dissolving a foreign LLC in Nebraska?
Foreign LLCs must complete a Withdrawal of Application for Registration form with the Nebraska Secretary of State to dissolve in Nebraska.
Will I receive a refund of my Nebraska business registration fee if I dissolve my LLC?
No, the registration fee is non-refundable even if you dissolve your Nebraska LLC.
Can I dissolve my Nebraska LLC if I have outstanding legal issues?
You may need to resolve any legal issues before dissolving your LLC in Nebraska.
How do I cancel my Nebraska LLC’s registered agent service?
You should notify your registered agent in writing that you are dissolving your LLC and will no longer need their services.
Can I dissolve my Nebraska LLC if I have lawsuits pending against my company?
It may be possible to dissolve your LLC in Nebraska even if you have pending lawsuits, but you should seek legal advice before doing so.
Can I change my Nebraska LLC’s name when I dissolve it?
No, you cannot change your LLC’s name when you dissolve it in Nebraska.
How do I dissolve my Nebraska LLC if I have more than one member?
You will need to follow your Nebraska LLC’s operating agreement and get approval from all members to dissolve the business.
Can I change my LLC’s business structure when I dissolve it in Nebraska?
No, you cannot change your Nebraska LLC’s business structure when you dissolve it.
Do I need to file a final tax return for my Nebraska LLC?
Yes, you will need to file a final tax return for your Nebraska LLC and include the date of the company’s dissolution on the return.
What happens to the Nebraska LLC’s assets and liabilities if it has multiple members?
Assets will be distributed according to each member’s contribution percentage, and each member will be responsible for paying their share of any outstanding liabilities.
How long do I have to wait after dissolving my Nebraska LLC to start a new one?
You can start a new LLC in Nebraska immediately after dissolving your previous one.
Can I dissolve my Nebraska LLC if it has made no money?
Yes, you can dissolve your Nebraska LLC even if it hasn’t made any money, as long as all the necessary requirements are met.
Do I need to notify the Nebraska Secretary of State if I dissolve my LLC?
Yes, you will need to file Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State to notify them of your LLC’s dissolution.
Can dissolving my LLC in Nebraska affect my personal credit rating?
It is unlikely that dissolving your LLC in Nebraska will affect your personal credit rating, but it depends on your individual circumstances.
Is it possible to revive my Nebraska LLC after dissolution?
Yes, you can apply for a reinstatement of your Nebraska LLC if you meet the necessary requirements.
What happens if I don’t file Articles of Dissolution and just stop doing business?
You will continue to be responsible for any taxes or other compliance requirements until your LLC is properly dissolved according to Nebraska law.
What is required to dissolve a Nebraska LLC?
To dissolve a Nebraska LLC, you must file articles of dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
How do I file articles of dissolution for my Nebraska LLC?
You can file articles of dissolution for your Nebraska LLC online through the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website or by mail.
What should be included in the articles of dissolution for my Nebraska LLC?
The articles of dissolution for your Nebraska LLC should include the LLC’s name, address, and any other relevant information.
How much does it cost to dissolve a Nebraska LLC?
It costs $10 to file articles of dissolution for your Nebraska LLC.
Can I dissolve my Nebraska LLC without paying any fees?
No, you must pay the $10 fee to file articles of dissolution for your Nebraska LLC.
What other steps do I need to take to dissolve my Nebraska LLC?
You may need to cancel any business licenses or permits your Nebraska LLC has obtained.
When will my Nebraska LLC be officially dissolved?
Your Nebraska LLC will be officially dissolved on the date your articles of dissolution are filed with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Do I need to notify creditors and other interested parties about the dissolution of my Nebraska LLC?
Yes, you should provide notice of the dissolution of your Nebraska LLC to any creditors and other interested parties.
How should I provide notice of my Nebraska LLC’s dissolution?
You may provide notice of your Nebraska LLC’s dissolution through a combination of methods, including mailing letters and posting notices.
What if I have outstanding debts or liabilities when I dissolve my Nebraska LLC?
You may need to pay off any outstanding debts or liabilities before dissolving your Nebraska LLC.
Will I need to file a final tax return for my Nebraska LLC?
Yes, you will need to file a final tax return for your Nebraska LLC.
Do I need to obtain a tax clearance certificate before dissolving my Nebraska LLC?
It’s recommended that you obtain a tax clearance certificate before dissolving your Nebraska LLC, but it’s not required.
How do I obtain a tax clearance certificate for my Nebraska LLC?
You can request a tax clearance certificate for your Nebraska LLC from the Nebraska Department of Revenue.
What happens if I don’t obtain a tax clearance certificate before dissolving my Nebraska LLC?
Your Nebraska LLC may be subject to penalties and interest.
What if I change my mind after filing articles of dissolution for my Nebraska LLC?
If you change your mind and want to continue operating your Nebraska LLC, you may need to file articles of revocation with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Can I revive my Nebraska LLC if it has already been dissolved?
Yes, you can revive your Nebraska LLC if it has already been dissolved by filing articles of reinstatement with the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Is there a time limit for filing articles of reinstatement for my Nebraska LLC?
Yes, you must file articles of reinstatement for your Nebraska LLC within three years of the date of dissolution.
What if I don’t file articles of reinstatement for my Nebraska LLC within three years of its dissolution?
After three years, you will need to initiate a new application to form a new LLC in Nebraska.
What happens to my Nebraska LLC’s business name once it is dissolved?
Once your Nebraska LLC is dissolved, its business name will be available for use by other businesses.
Can I reserve my Nebraska LLC’s business name after it is dissolved?
Yes, you can reserve your Nebraska LLC’s business name for up to 120 days after the date of its dissolution.
What is a certificate of cancellation for a Nebraska LLC?
A certificate of cancellation is a document that confirms the cancellation of your Nebraska LLC’s articles of organization.
When does a Nebraska LLC need to obtain a certificate of cancellation?
A Nebraska LLC must obtain a certificate of cancellation before it is dissolved.
How do I obtain a certificate of cancellation for my Nebraska LLC?
You can request a certificate of cancellation from the Nebraska Secretary of State.
Is there a fee for a certificate of cancellation?
Yes, it costs $5 to obtain a certificate of cancellation for your Nebraska LLC.
How long does it take to obtain a certificate of cancellation for a Nebraska LLC?
It usually takes about two weeks for the Nebraska Secretary of State to process a request for a certificate of cancellation.
Can I obtain a certificate of cancellation even if I don’t want to dissolve my Nebraska LLC?
Yes, you can obtain a certificate of cancellation for your Nebraska LLC even if you don’t want to dissolve it, but it’s not necessary.
Can a foreign LLC dissolve in Nebraska?
Yes, foreign LLC may voluntarily dissolve in Nebraska by complying with the applicable statutes and regulations governing their process of dissolution.

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Conclusion

Dissolving Nebraska business can be complex and time-consuming, but following the steps outlined in this guide will help ensure a smooth and successful dissolution. By conducting a formal vote, settling debts and liabilities, distributing assets, filing the Articles of Dissolution, notifying government agencies, and canceling business licenses and permits, you can legally dissolve your Nebraska business and move forward with the next chapter of your professional life.

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