How to Start an LLC in Kentucky: Step-by-Step Guide
Last Updated:byTRUiC Team
To form aKentucky LLC, you'll need to file the Articles of Organization with the Kentucky Secretary of State, which costs $40. You can apply online, by mail, or in person.
Follow our step-by-stepHow to Start an LLC in Kentuckyguide to get started today.
- Name Your Kentucky LLC
- Choose a Registered Agent
- File the Articles of Organization
- Create an Operating Agreement
- Get an EIN
Learn more about LLCs and their benefits in our118bet金博宝
guide. To form an LLC in any state, visit our如何建立一个有限责任公司guide.
一步1: Name Your Kentucky LLC
Choosing a company name is the first and most important step in starting your Kentucky LLC. Be sure to choose a name that complies with Kentucky naming requirements and is easily searchable by potential clients.
1. Follow the naming guidelines:
- Your name must include the phrase “limited liability company” or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
- Your name cannot include words that could confuse your LLC with a government agency (FBI, Treasury, State Department, etc.).
- Restricted words (e.g. Bank, Attorney, University) may require additional paperwork and a licensed individual, such as a doctor or lawyer, to be part of your LLC.
2. Is the name available in Kentucky?Make sure the name you want isn't already taken by doing aname searchon the Kentucky Secretary of State website.
To learn more about searching for aKentucky LLC name, read our full guide. Find name ideas using ourfree LLC name generator.
3.Is the URL available?We recommend that you check online to see if your business name is available as a网络域. Even if you don't plan to make a business website today, you may want to buy the URL in order to prevent others from acquiring it.
Once you have verified your name is available, you may now select a professional service to complete the LLC formation process for you.
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FAQ: Naming a Kentucky LLC
有限责任公司是什么?
噢C is short for “limited liability company.” It is a simple business structure that offers more flexibility than a traditional corporation while providing many of the same benefits. Read our118bet金博宝 guide for more information.
Or, watch our two-minute video:有限责任公司是什么?
How do I name my Kentucky LLC?
You must follow the Kentucky LLC naming guidelines when choosing a name for your LLC:
- 在clude the phrase "limited liability company" or one of its abbreviations (LLC or L.L.C.).
- Do not use words that could confuse your business with a government agency (FBI, State Department, CIA, etc.).
- Receive the proper licensing when using the words such as lawyer or doctor.
If you are having trouble coming up with a name for your LLC, use our噢C Name Generator. That will not only find a unique name for your business but an available URL to match.
After you get your business name, get a unique logo using ourFree Logo Generator.
Do I need to get a DBA or assumed name for my business?
Most LLCs do not need a DBA, known as an assumed name in the state of Kentucky. The name of the LLC can serve as your company’s brand name and you can accept checks and other payments under that name as well. However, you may wish to register a DBA if you would like to conduct business under another name.
To learn more about DBAs in your state, read ourHow to File a DBAguide.
一步2: Choose a Registered Agent in Kentucky
You arerequiredto nominate aKentucky registered agentfor your Kentucky LLC.
What is a registered agent?A registered agent is an individual or business entity responsible for receiving important legal documents on behalf of your business. Think of your registered agent as your business's point of contact with the state.
Who can be a registered agent?注册代理人必须是一个肯塔基州的居民or a corporation, such as aregistered agent service, authorized to transact business in Kentucky. You may elect an individual within the company, including yourself.
Recommended:Check out thesebest registered agent services.
FAQ: Nominating a Registered Agent
Can I be my own registered agent?
Yes. You or anyone else in your company can serve as the registered agent for your LLC.
Read more aboutbeing your own registered agent.
Is a registered agent service worth it?
Using a professional service is an affordable way to manage government filings for your LLC. For most businesses, the advantages of using registered agent services significantly outweigh the annual costs.
For more information, read our article onKentucky registered agents.
一步3: File Your Kentucky LLC Articles of Organization
To register your LLC, you will need to fileForm KLC: Articles of Organizationwith the Kentucky Secretary of State. This can be done online, by mail, or in person.
Now is a good time to determine whether your LLC will bemember-managed vs. manager-managed.
File the Articles of Organization
OPTION 1:File Online With the Kentucky Secretary of State
- OR -
OPTION 2:File Form KLC by Mail or In Person
State Filing Cost:$40, payable to "Kentucky State Treasurer" (Nonrefundable)
Mailing Address:
Michael G. Adams
Office of the Secretary of State
P.O. Box 718
Frankfort, KY 40602
Office Address:
Room 154, Capitol Building
700 Capital Ave.
Frankfort, KY 40601
Hours of Operation:8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. ET
For help with completing the form, visit ourKentucky Articles of Organizationguide.
If you’re expanding your existing LLC to the State of Kentucky, you will need to form aforeign LLC.
FAQ: Filing Kentucky LLC Documents
What is the processing time to form my Kentucky LLC?
The Kentucky LLC formation process is approved immediately online but can take three to five days for hard copy filings to be approved by the state.
What is the difference between a domestic Kentucky LLC and foreign LLC?
An LLC is referred to as a "domestic LLC" when it conducts business in the state where it was formed. A foreign LLC must be formed when an existing LLC wishes to expand its business to another state.
Read ourWhat Is a Foreign LLCarticle to learn more.
How much does it cost to start a Kentucky LLC?
The cost to start a Kentucky LLC is $40.
To learn more, read our guide on thecost to form a Kentucky LLC.
一步4: Create Your Kentucky LLC Operating Agreement
An operating agreement is not required in Kentucky, but it's a good practice to have one.
What is an operating agreement?An operating agreement is a legal document outlining the ownership and operating procedures of an LLC.
Why are operating agreements important?A comprehensive operating agreement ensures that all LLC owners are on the same page and reduces the risk of future conflict.
For more information on operating agreements, read ourKentucky LLC operating agreementguide.
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FAQ: Creating a Kentucky LLC Operating Agreement
Do I need to file my operating agreement with the state of Kentucky?
No. The operating agreement is an internal document that you should keep on file for future reference. However, many states do legally require LLCs to have an operating agreement in place.
一步5: Get an EIN
You can get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for free. It is used to identify a business entity and keep track of a business’s tax reporting. It is essentially a Social Security number (SSN) for the company.
Why do I need an EIN?An EIN number is required for the following:
- To open abusiness bank accountfor the company
- For federal and state tax purposes
- 为公司雇佣员工
Where do I get an EIN?An EIN is obtained from the IRS (free of charge) by the business owner after forming the company. This can be done online or by mail.
FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS:Youdo not need an SSNto get an EIN.Learn more here.
Get an EIN
Option 1: Request an EIN from the IRS
- OR -
Option 2: Apply for an EIN by Mail or Fax
Mail to:
在ternal Revenue Service
Attn: EIN Operation
Cincinnati, OH 45999
Fax:(855) 641-6935
Fee:Free
FAQ: Getting an EIN
How do I get an EIN if I don’t have a Social Security number?
An SSN isnotrequired to get an EIN. You can simply fill outIRS Form SS-4and leave section 7b blank. Then call the IRS at (267) 941-1099 to complete your application.Learn more about applying as an international applicant.
Do I need an EIN for my LLC?
All LLCs with employees, or those with multiple LLC members, must have an EIN. This isrequiredby the IRS.
Learn why we recommendalwaysgetting an EIN and how to get one for free in ourDo I Need an EIN for an LLCguide.
What tax structure should I choose for my LLC?
When you get an EIN, you will be informed of the differenttax classification optionsthat are available. Most LLCs elect the default tax status.
However, some LLCs can reduce their federal tax obligation by choosing theS corporation (S corp) status. To learn more, read our噢C vs. S Corpguide.
Considering Using an LLC Formation Service?
We reviewed and ranked the top LLC formation services. Find out which is best for you.
How to Maintain Your LLC
File the Annual Report
Kentucky requires LLCs to file an annual report with the Secretary of State. This can be done online or by mail for a flat $15 fee. To file a hard copy report, fill out your informationonlineand print it out.
Kentucky LLC annual reports are due by June 30 every year. The filing window opens on January 1.
一步s After LLC Formation
Read all the steps you’ll need to maintain your LLC’s personal liability protection, open a business bank account, get business insurance, and stay up to date with state reporting requirements.
Visit ourAfter Forming an LLCguide to learn more.
What is the corporate veil?
Business entities, such as LLCs and corporations, protect their owners from personal liabilities for the business’s debts. This protection is often referred to as the corporate veil. Learn how to protect your LLC's corporate veil in ourguide.
Keep Your Company Compliant
Kentucky LLC Licenses & Permits
To operate your LLC, you must comply with federal, state, and local government regulations. Fees and requirements for licenses and permits will vary depending on what sort of business license you need.
Find out how to get the necessary business licenses and permits for your LLC with ourKentucky Business Licenseguide.
Recommended:Consider having a professional service research your business’s licensing requirements. Read ourbest business license servicesreview.
Kentucky LLC Tax Filing Requirements
在order to keep your business in good standing, it's important to stay up to date on yourKentucky LLC taxes.
Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to register for one or more forms of tax:
Kentucky Sales Tax
If you are selling a physical product, you’ll typically need to register for aseller's permitthrough theKentucky Department of Revenuewebsite.
Kentucky's sales and use tax rate is 6%. Unlike many states, Kentucky does not impose any local sales taxes.
Kentucky Employer Taxes
If you have employees in Kentucky, you will have to register for theUnemployment Insurance Taxwith the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training. You will also need to sign up for theEmployee Withholding Taxwith the Kentucky Department of Revenue.
Limited Liability Entity Tax
All businesses that are protected from liability under Kentucky law are required to pay the state’s limited liability entity tax (LLET) to theDepartment of Revenue.
Your LLC’s tax payment will ultimately depend on your company’s gross receipts or gross profits in Kentucky.
在dustry-Specific Taxes
Additional state taxes may apply if your business falls within aspecific industry. Most of these additional taxes apply to hospitality or service industry businesses.
在come Tax
State:
Kentucky has a flat individual income tax rate of 5%. For more information about common deductions, processing times, and due dates, visit theKentucky Department of Revenue website.
Federal:
You’ll also need to report your federal income tax using eitherForm 1065(multi-member LLC) orForm 1040 Schedule C(single-member LLC).
Hiring Employees in Kentucky
If you plan to hire employees, stay compliant with the law by following these steps:
- Verify that new employees areable to work in the US
- Report employeesas "new hires" to the state
- Provideworkers' compensationinsurance for employees
- Withhold employee taxes
- Printworkplace compliance postersand place them in visible areas of your work space
For more information, view Kentucky's"Managing Employees" resource.
Check out ourHiring for Your Small Business Guidefor resources like sample job descriptions, payroll service reviews, and more.
What is the minimum wage in Kentucky?
The minimum wage in Kentucky is $7.25 per hour.
How often do I need to pay employees?
Kentucky requires wages to be paid at least twice per month.