Starting a new business can be exciting, but it also involves a lot of paperwork. When you set up an LLC in Kentucky, you’ll have to keep it in good standing by filing an annual report with the Secretary of State. Otherwise, you could risk losing your business or incur other penalties.

Although this process is relatively straightforward, it’s crucial to understand each step, including the information you must provide, how to amend your report if necessary, when it’s due, and how much you have to pay each year. 

So, with that in mind, let’s break down the specifics of Kentucky’s annual report filings and how they affect your business. 

What to know about an annual report in Kentucky

An annual report is simply a document outlining the names and addresses of the most important people involved in your business, including founders, officers, and registered agents. The purpose of this report is to ensure the Secretary of State has the most up-to-date information about your company. These details are also crucial so the state can send various business-related documents and correspondence to the correct addresses. 

As with most states, Kentucky requires almost all businesses (except sole proprietorships) to file this report every year. Companies will receive a postcard in the mail in January, and they have until June 30th to file the report, either via mail or online. 

The cost to file this report is $15, which must be submitted with the document for it to be valid. 

How to file an annual report in Kentucky

When forming your Kentucky LLC, you don’t have to worry about the annual report until the following year. The postcard form is mailed in January, regardless of when you formed your business. For example, if you started in December, you’ll still receive a postcard in January and must submit it by June 30th. However, there are easier ways to file, such as online or through a correspondence service. 

Fill out the form with the required information

If it’s your first time filing this report, you must include the following details: 

• LLC Business Name (including any DBA names)
• Primary Business Address (this is what should be listed on your LLC formation form)
• Names and addresses of officers/directors/members/managers and/or trustees (list each name and address separately)
• Names of the Principal and Registered Agent
• Signature and Date

Each of these details will be listed on the form, whether you fill it out in person or online. When filing subsequent annual reports, all you have to do is re-confirm these details on the form. You can make changes to the names and addresses of officers, members, managers, and/or trustees on the same form. However, if you need to change the principal agent’s address or your registered agent, you’ll have to file a separate form. 

For principal address changes, you’ll submit the Statement of Change of Principal Office Address (POC) form. 

For registered agent changes, you’ll submit the Statement of Change of Registered Agent RAC and/or Registered Office Address (RAC) form.

Choose one of the filing options 

There are three ways to file your annual report: 

• Mail – Send the report and your $15 filing fee to the Kentucky Secretary of State’s office at 700 Capital Ave., Ste. 152, Frankfort, KY 40601. 
• Online – You can look up your business on the Secretary of State’s website and access a digital version of the form. You must also pay the fee using the site’s payment portal.
• Correspondence Service – To ensure you never forget to file your annual report, you can use a third-party correspondence service like Tailor Brands. This option is particularly helpful if you’re using the same entity as your registered agent to receive official mail on your behalf. The benefit of using a third-party service is peace of mind and added convenience. 

Paying fee

The standard annual report filing fee is $15. If you must file a Statement of Change form for either your principal address or registered agent, you must also pay a $10 fee for each form. 

Make sure to file on time

All businesses have from January 1st to June 30th to file their annual report. Although this may seem like a long time, the deadline can approach faster than you might think. It’s never a good idea to file the report at the last minute. 

Also, keep in mind that you can make changes and adjustments to your annual report filings after the fact. While you have to pay separate filing fees each time, it’s better than missing the deadline. 

What Happens if you fail to file on time?

While the annual report may seem like a minor formality, it’s necessary to keep your business in good standing with the Kentucky Secretary of State. If you file late, you could put your business at risk. Here’s what you can expect: 

• Late Fines and Fees – Kentucky does not charge a late fee for filing the annual report beyond the June 30th deadline. Instead, your business will be in bad standing, and you have another 60 days to file to bring your LLC back to good standing. 
• Dissolution of Your Business – If you fail to file your report by the late deadline (August 31st), the Secretary of State may either dissolve your business or revoke your authority to conduct business in the state. If this happens, you must file paperwork (and pay extra filing fees) to reinstate your business. 

Final thoughts

Overall, filing an annual report for your LLC doesn’t have to be a headache or chore. You can use a compliance service, thus making sure your business is in good standing with the Kentucky Secretary of State. Don’t let a the paperwork jeopardize your LLC and get the peace of mind you deserve. 

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