body: I'm a software developer that (finally) has a working prototype of an app that I've been moonlighting with. I'm about 4 months out from having it 'market ready' and would like to form a 'barebones LLC' for a number of reasons:
  
  
  * I need to start reaching out to prospective clients to see if I can use them to trial a "soft release" of the app and incorporate their feedback into the final v1 product launch
  * I'd like to associate some intellectual property with a business, not myself personally
  * Soon I'll need to start signing contracts and would like the protection of an LLC
  
  
  **Now I fully understand that using a lawyer or a legal service is highly advised here. Duly noted! *But*, I think I'm *more* than capable of handling this initial barebones formation (which consists of just myself, no partners/members, etc.).** If you disagree, please give me the reasons! Otherwise, my question is written from the perspective of someone who wishes to execute the LLC formation by himself/herself ("*himerself*").
  
  
  From what I can tell, formation in NYS (not NY City or any of the 5 boroughs) is as simple as:
  
  
  * Writing an *Articles of Organization*, which I can bum from free/open source online templates and tweak as needed; then
  * Filing these Articles with NYS Department of Corporations, and pay the $200 fee; then
  * Announce the formation in 2 newspaper publications in the county of formation
  
  
  Here are my concerns:
  
  
  * How do I determine which newspapers qualify as publications (and hence satisfy that criterium)? Does the DoC maintain a list somewhere?
  * Any other important *formation* steps I'm missing? For instance, do I need to file financial statements with the NYS Dept of Taxation/Finance and/or IRS as soon as the LLC is formed? How about obtaining a FEIN? Etc.
  
  
  
title: Exact minimal steps to forming an LLC in NYS?