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Kentucky charges $40 to put an LLC on file. The filing is Articles of Organization. The Secretary of State lists it on the fee schedule, and you can start from the Business Services online filings page. Timing is quick. With the exception of annual reports, filings are usually processed the same day they are received, though it can take up to three business days. The Kentucky business guide covers the search tool.
How do I check and hold a Kentucky LLC name?
Start with the state's availability check, which sits in the online searches section next to the search by organization name or number. The same section lets you search by officer name and by registered agent name.
If you cannot file yet, apply to reserve the name. The state charges $15 and holds it for 120 days, and a renewal is the same price. A reservation cannot be done over the phone. You submit the application.
Read our name availability guide for the habits that catch near-matches.
Who can be my registered agent in Kentucky?
Each entity must designate a registered agent and a registered office in Kentucky where a summons or subpoena can be served. The state explains that an agent is an individual or another business entity. See our Kentucky registered agent page for the rules and the $10 change form.
How do I file the Articles of Organization?
File the articles with the Secretary of State and pay $40. The state's FAQ says a business can be filed online and links to the filing system from the Business Filings pages.
Plan the order of tasks. Pick the name, settle on the agent and registered office, and then file. Kentucky also expects a principal office, which can be inside or outside the state, because all correspondence from the office is mailed to the principal office. Give an address where mail is opened.
What do I do after approval?
Draft an operating agreement. Kentucky does not file it. Get a free EIN with our EIN guide, then open a bank account in the LLC's name.
An LLC formed in another state does not use the $40 form. It applies for a Certificate of Authority, which costs $90.
What else does the fee schedule list?
The fee schedule is the page to scan before you file. For a domestic LLC it also lists amended articles at $40, a statement of change of registered agent or office at $10, a statement of change of principal office at $10, and articles of correction at $20. An application for use of an indistinguishable name is $20.
Count $40 to form and $15 for each annual report. The state says reports are due by June 30 each year after the year of formation, so the first one falls in the year after you file. Add $15 if you reserve the name first, and $10 if you later change the registered agent or office.
What must a Kentucky LLC file every year?
An annual report, at $15. The deadline is June 30 each year after the year the LLC was formed. You can file between January 1 and June 30, online or on paper. The report confirms the principal office and the registered agent and office, and it lists members or managers.
A missed deadline moves fast. The LLC goes into bad standing and can be administratively dissolved. To reinstate, there is a $100 reinstatement penalty, and the state asks the Department of Revenue for a letter of good standing on your behalf unless you collect it yourself. Our annual report deadline guide can help you set reminders.
Ready? Use our start-an-LLC form.
After approval, check the rules in our Kentucky business license guide.