The Definitive Guide to Biennial Report in Washington, D.C.

In Washington, D.C., most business entities must file a biennial report with the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP). This report, due every two years, ensures that the District maintains accurate and up-to-date records of active businesses.
Biennial Report Requirements
Unlike most states that require annual filings, D.C. operates on a biennial cycle, meaning fewer filings but the same level of responsibility for keeping information current. Filing on time is crucial to maintain good standing, avoid penalties, and preserve the right to operate legally within the District.
Who Must File
The filing requirement applies to a broad range of business entities, including:
  • Corporations (domestic and foreign)

  • Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)

  • Nonprofit Corporations
General Partnerships are usually exempt, but all other formal entities must comply with biennial reporting. Both domestic (formed in D.C.) and foreign (formed elsewhere but registered to do business in D.C.) businesses are covered by this requirement.
Required Information for Washington, D.C. Biennial Report
To complete a biennial report, businesses must provide:
  • Business address – The principal office address (may differ from the registered agent’s address).
  • Registered agent information – Name and address of the agent in D.C.
  • Ownership and officers – Directors and officers for corporations, members or managers for LLCs, board members for nonprofits.
  • Additional disclosures – In some cases, revenue, stock details, or capital may be required.
Accurate, updated information is critical to avoid rejections, delays, or loss of good standing.
Filing Deadlines
Biennial reports are due by April 1 every two years following the year of formation
Examples:
  • An LLC formed in 2023 must file by April 1, 2024, then again by April 1, 2026, 2028, and so on.
  • The same biennial cycle applies to corporations and nonprofits.
Businesses should confirm their exact due dates in the DLCP online portal.
Washington, D.C. Biennial Report Fees and Costs
Understanding the financial obligations of biennial report filings is essential for businesses operating in Washington, D.C. The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) requires all entities to pay specific filing fees to maintain good standing. These fees vary by entity type and can be subject to periodic changes.
  • LLCs: $300
  • Corporations and Nonprofits: Similar fees apply; businesses should verify the current amounts with DLCP.
Extra costs may include expedited processing, professional filing services, or penalties for late filings.

Step-by-Step Filing Process

Filing your biennial report in Washington, D.C. is a straightforward process
when you understand the available methods and required steps.
Online filing (recommended):

Step 1

Log into the CorpOnline
portal.

Step 3

Review and update all required
information.

Step 5

Receive confirmation of
compliance immediately.

Step 2

Locate your business entity
record.


Step 4

Pay the $300 filing fee securely
by credit card.

Step 1

Log into the CorpOnline
portal.

Step 2

Locate your business
entity record.

Step 3

Review and update all required information.

Step 4

Pay the $300 filing fee securely
by credit card.

Step 5

Receive confirmation of compliance immediately.
‍

Paper Filing (Form BRA-25)

Step 1

Download and complete Form BRA-25.

Step 3

Attach payment (check or
money order).

Step 2

Have the form signed by
an authorized individual.

Step 4

Mail or hand-deliver to
the DLCP Corporations Division.

Step 1

Download and complete Form BRA-25.

Step 2

Have the form signed by an authorized individual.

Step 3

Attach payment (check or money order).

Step 4

Mail or hand-deliver to the DLCP Corporations Division.
‍

Regardless of the method chosen, it is crucial to file before the deadline to avoid penalties.
Requirements by Entity Type
The biennial report requirements in Washington, D.C., are largely consistent across various business structures, emphasizing the core information needed to maintain an accurate public record.

However, there are nuances and specific considerations that apply to different entity types, primarily Corporations, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), and Nonprofits.
Corporations
  • Principal office address
  • Registered agent details
  • Names/addresses of directors and officers
  • Confirmation of authorized shares
LLCs
  • Principal office address
  • Registered agent details
  • Names/addresses of members or managers
  • Consideration of Unincorporated Business Franchise (UBF) tax obligations
Nonprofits
  • Principal office address
  • Registered agent details
  • Names/addresses of directors and officers
  • Alignment of activities with nonprofit mission and tax-exempt status
Penalties and Consequences
Missing a biennial report deadline can result in:
  • Late fees and financial penalties
  • Loss of good standing, impacting contracts, banking, and name protection
  • Administrative dissolution, terminating the business’s legal status
Reinstatement is possible but costly and time-consuming.
Professional Washington, D.C. Biennial Report Filing Services
Many businesses choose professional filing services to manage their D.C. biennial report obligations. Benefits include:
  • Deadline tracking and reminders

  • Accuracy checks to prevent rejection

  • Optional registered agent services

  • Multi-state compliance management
Professional services can save time, reduce errors, and ensure continuous good standing.

FAQ

This section addresses common questions businesses may have
regarding the biennial report filing in Washington D.C.

What is a biennial report?

A biennial report is a document that businesses are required to file every two years with the District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) to update their information and maintain good standing.

Why is it called a biennial report instead of an annual report?

Washington D.C. has opted for a two-year filing cycle (biennial) instead of an annual one, which is common in many other states. This means businesses file every other year.

What information do I need to provide in the biennial report?

Typically, you will need to provide updated information on your company's principal office address, details regarding ownership and officers (e.g., directors, managers, members), and current registered agent information.

What is the filing fee for the biennial report in Washington D.C.?

As of 2024, the fee for Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) is $300. Fees can vary by entity type and are subject to change, so it's always best to verify the current fee with the DLCP.

How can I file my biennial report?

You can file online through the CorpOnline portal, which is the recommended method for its efficiency. Alternatively, you can file by mail or hand delivery using Form BRA-25.es. It's advisable to consult a tax professional.

Need a hand with your Washington DC Annual Report?

Palm can prepare and submit your filing, serve as your registered agent, and monitor compliance year-round so you can stay focused on growth.

File Your Washington DC Annual Report Now
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