Forming a limited liability company (LLC) in Kansas is affordable and simple, even if you’ve never started a business before. The Sunflower State offers several advantages for businesses, from reasonable income tax rates to its low cost of living. Plus, the state offers several business incentives and services to help companies in certain industries get off the ground with the support they need.
Our guide will tell you what to expect as you launch your new limited liability company, including how to register with the Kansas Secretary of State (SoS), tips for building your business, common mistakes to avoid, and where to get help if you want it. Keep reading to start your Kansas LLC with confidence.
Quick overview: Kansas LLC at a glance
An LLC is a great business structure for many Kansas entrepreneurs, because it offers tax advantages, flexible organization options, and limited liability protection for its members. As with other formal business entities in Kansas, LLCs do have certain required rules and procedures to establish the business, as well as costs. Here’s a brief overview of what’s required when creating an LLC in Kansas.
Formation cost: $160–$165
Registration processing time: Online filings are typically processed within a day of submission; paper filings may take several business days.
Ongoing requirements: Biennial information report
Other business needs: Federal tax ID number; federal, state, and local business licenses and permits; state tax registration; and more
Starting an LLC in Kansas in 7 steps
Here’s how to get started with setting up an LLC in Kansas.
Step 1: Name your Kansas LLC
First, the fun part: naming your new business. To best ensure that you receive approval for your preferred name, you should first review Kansas’ naming rules, as outlined in Kansas Statutes Annotated (K.S.A.), Sections 17-7918 and 17-7920.
Required elements:
- Your name must end with “limited liability company,” “limited company,” or any variation of its abbreviation (LLC, L.L.C., LC, or L.C.).
- The name must be distinguishable from other businesses registered in Kansas (unless you have the business’ written consent to use the name).
- You can’t use a name that was canceled or forfeited within the past year.
You’re allowed (but not required) to use:
- The names of members or managers in the LLC name
- Specific words, including "company," "association," "club," "foundation," "fund," "institute," "society," "union," "syndicate," "limited," or "trust” (as well as any abbreviations of these terms)
If you’d like to test out some names, our free Kansas LLC lookup tool can check Kansas business records to see if your entered name is taken. This should give you a good idea if the name is available.
Free Kansas Business Name Check
Use our free name check tool to search the Kansas Secretary of State database and see if your business name is available.
By clicking "Check Availability," I agree to LegalZoom's Terms of Use. This search is a preliminary check of state databases and does not include variations or trademarks. Results do not guarantee name availability or compliance with legal requirements.
Common business naming mistakes to avoid:
- Complex or lengthy names. Instead opt for something short and easy to remember.
- Confusion with an existing business. Conduct an internet and social media search to ensure that your name isn’t too similar to others online.
- Irrelevance. Ensure consistency with, and relevance to, your brand or services.
Before finalizing your choice, use the following tools to research existing businesses registered in Kansas:
- Name availability search to confirm your exact name is available
- The Kansas business entity search to review similar existing businesses and assess potential competition
- Kansas state trademark search to ensure that your chosen name doesn’t interfere with a trademarked business name
- Federal trademark search through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to avoid infringing on names trademarked at the federal level
If you find a suitable name but aren’t ready to register your LLC, you can reserve it for up to 120 days by filing a temporary reservation form with the SoS and paying a $35 fee. Otherwise, you can take note of the name and save it for step 3.
Step 2: Appoint a resident agent in Kansas
A resident agent—called a registered agent in other states—is an individual or a business that accepts legal documents and other official communications on behalf of a Kansas business. According to Kansas law (K.S.A. 17-7925), your Kansas resident agent can be:
- Your LLC
- Any adult Kansas resident
- A domestic or foreign entity authorized to conduct business in Kansas
While you can serve as your own agent (or appoint someone from your LLC), it’s often more convenient to use a professional registered agent service. Here’s what a professional service can do:
- Take a major responsibility off your plate
- Protect your privacy (the resident agent’s address is listed in the public record)
- Allow you to be away from the office without risk of missing service of process or important documents
- Help your business meet deadlines and provide timely responses to government notices and legal requests
LegalZoom’s Topeka-based resident agent service helps you stay in compliance with state law while handling your sensitive legal documents.
Step 3: File Kansas articles of organization
The articles of organization is the document that legally establishes your business in Kansas. The form, along with the required fee, must include pertinent information, such as:
- The filer’s name and phone number
- The exact LLC name (including required designators)
- Name and address of resident agent (P.O. boxes are not sufficient)
- Signature of at least one authorized person forming the LLC
- You can file this document online through your online account on the SoS website for $160. Alternatively, you can fill out a paper form and mail it to the Kansas Secretary of State along with the filing fee, which for paper forms is $165. Send these two things to:
Kansas Secretary of State
Docking State Office Building
SW Harrison Street
Topeka, KS, 66612
Filing articles of organization online provides quicker processing, while paper forms may take three to five business days for the SoS to process after they receive it.
Regardless of how you file, make sure that all sections are filled out completely, and information is accurate. If you ever need to make a correction or the SoS notices an error in your LLC formation documents, you can file a certificate of correction and pay a $35 fee.
Step 4: Create your LLC operating agreement
Although single-member LLCs in Kansas are not required to have an operating agreement, it is wise to have one in place, as courts in Kansas generally recognize limited liability company operating agreements as governing documents. Investors, banks, and other funding organizations may also require an operating agreement.
An operating agreement is necessary if you have a multi-member LLC. While no business owner wants to think about potential future disputes among members, sometimes issues arise. With an operating agreement in place, all members will have clarity on how to manage certain situations.
An LLC operating agreement usually specifies the following:
- Details about the business, including principal office address, purpose, and tax treatment
- Names and addresses of all members and managers
- The term of the LLC
- Ownership structure
- Member and manager responsibilities
- Profit and loss distribution (based on members’ capital contributions)
- Rules for adding or removing members
- Voting power and decision-making procedures
- Meeting rules
- Guidelines for handling disputes and dissolving the LLC
- Procedures for amending the agreement
Avoid making these common mistakes when creating your LLC operating agreement:
- Providing inaccurate information
- Omitting pertinent details about your business, including its managers and members
- Not including guidelines and procedures for handling disputes among members
- Not taking into account all of the potential issues and business situations that might arise
- To ensure that you create a legally sound, complete agreement, use LegalZoom’s operating agreement service, which allows you to craft a personalized document. You can also create one using our operating agreement template.
Building a business is enough work as it is. We'll help you start your LLC with confidence.
Step 5: Get your federal tax ID
An employer identification number (EIN) is also known as a federal tax ID, and you can apply for one directly through the IRS. Your company will need to obtain an EIN from the IRS if you have more than one member, but you’ll also need one if your LLC:
- Plans to hire employees
- Pays excise taxes
- Chooses to be taxed as a corporation
- Opens a business bank account or wants to build business credit
Single-member LLCs that don’t fulfill these requirements don’t necessarily need an EIN. Instead, they can use their member’s Social Security number to pay taxes. However, obtaining an EIN can provide the foundation for future growth.
You can apply for an EIN through the IRS, or if you’d like some help with the paperwork, LegalZoom can apply for an EIN on your behalf and send you the details once approved by the IRS.
Step 6: Register for taxes and business licenses
LLCs are pass-through entities by default, which means you report the income on your personal tax returns rather than the business. Still, most LLCs in Kansas must register with the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) for various tax obligations, such as:
- Sales tax. If you sell goods or services, you must collect a 6.5% state sales tax (plus any applicable local taxes).
- Employment taxes. If you hire employees, you’re responsible for income withholding and unemployment taxes.
- Industry-specific taxes. Special taxes may apply for certain businesses (like liquor sales).
To register for taxes, create an account on KDOR’s website. You’ll then be presented with a questionnaire, which the department will use to determine what taxes you’ll need to register for.
Additionally, you may need to obtain certain business licenses and permits, depending on your business activities, location, and industry. Here are some examples:
- Professional licenses for individuals and businesses, such as accountants, architects, and daycare facilities
- State licenses for regulated industries, such as food establishment licenses from the Kansas Department of Agriculture
- Federal licenses for regulated industries, such as transporting animals or plants across state lines
- Local licenses issued by cities and counties for certain activities, such as a mobile food vendor license, home occupation permits, and zoning permits
LegalZoom’s business license report and management service can save you time with Kansas business license research. We’ll look into the requirements for your KS LLC and find out what permits your business needs, providing you with a comprehensive summary, registration details, and personalized licensing support.
Step 7: Open a business bank account
Now that you have an EIN, you can look into bank accounts for your business—whether through one of the large national options or a local bank or credit union near you in Kansas. A business bank account helps to keep your personal and business funds separate to avoid any liability protection or tax complications.
The documents and information that banks will ask for may include the following:
- Information about the business, members, and managers
- EIN or Social Security number
- Articles of organization (or a certified copy confirming your LLC’s existence)
- Operating agreement
When searching for the best business bank account, pay attention to minimum balance requirements, transaction limitations, monthly or annual fees, online banking options, fraud protection services, and wire fees.
LegalZoom helps you handle every step—from choosing a business name to filing paperwork with your state.
After formation: Setting up your Kansas LLC for success
After completing the primary steps to establish your Kansas LLC, there are some additional tasks to prepare for the future, including the following.
Register a domain name
Even if you’re not planning to launch a website immediately (or ever), you should still purchase a domain name to prevent competitors from using your business name on the internet. Here’s how:
- Use a domain registrar like GoDaddy or Bluehost to search for your desired URL.
- Choose a domain extension (e.g., .com).
- Purchase and register your domain.
You should also look for matching social media handles (if applicable) to ensure you can use the same name across all digital platforms.
Obtain a certificate of good standing
If you agree to a major contract, apply for business loans, or move your LLC to another state, you may need a certificate of good standing from the Kansas SoS. You can request this certificate by following these steps:
- Log in to your user account on the SoS Business Services Division portal.
- Select “Purchase Certified Copy/Certificate of Good Standing Search.”
- Search for your business name. Once your business name is displayed, click “Select Business.”
- Follow the instructions to purchase your certificate for $10.
- Download or print the certificate.
You can also request this certificate by mail, but note that the fee increases to $15. You can also request one through LegalZoom if you’d rather not deal with the SoS website.
Consider a foreign LLC
While you can operate legally in Kansas, this doesn’t mean your LLC registration automatically transfers if you expand to a new state. In this situation, you would need to register as a foreign business in the other state. This typically requires you to complete foreign LLC formation documents and provide a certificate of good standing or similar document from the Kansas SoS.
However, you should review the requirements in the state(s) where you plan to register or reach out to a business attorney to discuss the process.
Obtain business insurance
Depending on your business type, activities, and location, you might not need business insurance. But it’s a good practice to at least research different types of business insurance to understand if having a policy can further protect your business legally and financially.
For example, if you run a farm in Kansas and store expensive machinery and other types of business equipment onsite, you’ll likely want to look into commercial property insurance, which can help pay for the replacement of equipment in the event of damage from adverse weather events, fire, and more.
Set up an accounting system
As a small business owner, you have a lot on your plate. That’s why having an accounting system up and running is a great idea—it streamlines and automates the bookkeeping process, which reduces mistakes from manual spreadsheets.
LZ Books is a great option for simplifying small business accounting. You can connect your business bank account, then rely on the platform to help you categorize expenses and income. You’ll also have access to custom proposals and branded invoices, and you’ll be able to export data easily come tax season.
Build business credit
A high credit score can help you take out more favorable business loans, find mortgages with better interest rates, and even look more legitimate to vendors you might need to purchase from.
When building business credit, make sure to:
- Pay bills on time
- Keep a low credit card balance
- Review credit reports and address errors promptly
Starting a business takes courage. LegalZoom makes sure the legal details don’t stand in your way, from the day you register until the day you retire.
Kansas LLC compliance: Biennial reports and ongoing requirements
Kansas requires LLCs to submit an information report—also known as an annual report in other states—every two years to maintain good standing with the Secretary of State. You can use the SoS business entity search tool from Step 1 to confirm which years your Kansas LLC information report is due.
Your information report must include the following information:
- Business entity ID (provided by the Secretary of State when you form the LLC)
- LLC name and mailing address
- Reporting year
- Name and address of each member who owns at least 5% or more of the LLC capital
- Dated signature, name, and phone number of a member
You can file your Kansas information report online through your user account on the SoS website ($90 fee) or by mail using the paper form ($110 fee).
For-profit businesses must submit their information reports by April 15th of their due-date year, and nonprofits must submit by June 15th. The Kansas SoS allows a three-month grace period after the deadline, during which businesses can still file their information report without being considered delinquent. However, if you still don’t file by the time this period is up, the SoS will change your business’ status to “forfeited,” which means that you need to reinstate the business to get it back to good standing. This involves filing all past-due reports, filing an LLC certificate of reinstatement, and paying several state fees:
- Filing fee: $35
- Penalty fee for forfeiture: $85
- Fee for each past-due report: $110
Aside from this information report requirement, continuing legal obligations may include, but are not limited to, state taxes, updating the SoS with any changes to your LLC, and adhering to all employment laws.
To keep your Kansas LLC in good standing with the Secretary of State and avoid expensive penalty fees, it’s crucial to maintain a compliance calendar that ensures you don’t miss a deadline. LegalZoom’s business compliance services can help. We’ll keep track of information report deadlines, upcoming business license renewals, amendment filings, and more—all to ensure that your LLC stays compliant with Kansas state law.
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Kansas?
The following costs are involved with launching an LLC in Kansas. Some are required to register, while others depend on your needs. You will pay, at minimum, $160 just for filing your articles of organization. From there, costs go up based on the needs of your business.
Articles of organization filing fee: $160 (online applications) or $165 (by mail)
Business name reservation: $35 (optional)
Resident agent services: $0 to $300 annually, depending on whether you appoint yourself or use a professional service
Certificate of good standing: $10 (online requests) or $15 (by mail)
Certified copies: $15 (plus $1 per page for physical copies)
Biennial information report: $90 (online filings) or $110 (by mail)
Business insurance: $500 to $3,000 annually, depending on the policy
Accounting software: $9.99 per month with LZ Books
Business licenses and permits: Varies greatly by industry and location
There may be additional expenses depending on your business needs and services, such as rent payments, monthly business bank account fees, annual salaries, software subscriptions, internet and phone bills, electric bills, marketing costs, and travel expenses.
Common Kansas LLC mistakes to avoid
With all these business tips and processes in mind, here’s an at-a-glance list of mistakes to avoid when starting and operating your LLC in Kansas:
- Appointing yourself as your LLC’s resident agent if you work from home, travel frequently, or are away from the office throughout the day
- Operating without the necessary Kansas business licenses or permits
- Skipping an operating agreement
- Not opening a business bank account, which can help to separate personal and business finances
- Not keeping track of biennial information report deadlines
- Overlooking the importance of accounting software for proper, streamlined bookkeeping and invoicing
- Not obtaining business insurance to protect your business legally and financially
How LegalZoom can help you start your Kansas LLC
You have what it takes to start an LLC in Kansas by yourself, but why not make it easier and leave the paperwork to LegalZoom? With our LLC formation services, we’ll guide you through the entire process of launching your new venture—from selecting your business name to filing your articles of organization with the Kansas SoS. Just tell us about your business, and we’ll take care of the rest. More than four million businesses have relied on LegalZoom’s help with forming their company.
Plans start at $0 + the Kansas LLC business filing fee, or you can partner with us for additional business and legal needs—whether that’s submitting your first biennial information report, applying for an EIN, getting access to legal documents, identifying which licenses your business needs, or finding an experienced business attorney.
LegalZoom offers comprehensive, integrative services that benefit your business, from formation to maintenance and beyond.
LegalZoom can help you file your state's formation paperwork for as little as $0 + state filing fees.
Start an LLC in Any State
Kansas LLC FAQs
Do I need a business license for my Kansas LLC?
Kansas doesn’t require a state business license for limited liability companies, but specific permits or licenses may be necessary depending on your industry and location (and if you operate a professional LLC). Check with your local authorities or work with a service like our Business License Report for a detailed look at which licenses and permits you might need.
How do I file taxes for my LLC in Kansas?
LLCs in Kansas can be treated as corporations, limited liability partnerships, or single-member LLCs and are subject to federal income tax classifications. Depending on the type of taxation you opt to have for your LLC, the tax responsibilities are as follows:
- An LLC treated as a limited liability partnership. These LLCs are required to file Form 1065 (U.S. Return of Partnership Income) and to show equal distribution of profits, losses, and credit on a Schedule K-1 with the IRS.
- An LLC treated as a C corporation for federal tax purposes. These LLCs are required to file Form 8832 (Entity Classification Election) and must opt to be taxed as a corporation (i.e., a separate legal entity). Next, they must file Form 1120 (U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return) with the IRS.
- An LLC treated as an S corporation. These LLCs are required to file Form 1120S (U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return) accompanied by a report from each owner expressing the equal distribution of profits, losses, and credit with the IRS.
- An LLC treated as a sole proprietorship. These LLCs must report all business income and expenses via the sole proprietor’s personal income tax returns, Schedule C (Form 1040, Profit or Loss from Business) with the IRS.
Another point to note with regard to state taxes in Kansas is the fact that each LLC member is required to report income on his or her individual income tax forms and file a Partnership Return (Form K-65) with the Kansas Department of Revenue.
How long does it take to get an LLC approved in Kansas?
When filing online, you’ll receive immediate confirmation of your LLC formation. For paper filings, the Kansas SoS mentions processing times of 3–5 business days. However, any errors or omissions may delay the process.
How do I dissolve a Kansas LLC?
To dissolve your Kansas LLC, first confirm that your business is in good standing with the state (i.e., wrap up business affairs and pay outstanding debts or taxes). Then, file a certificate of cancellation with the SoS and pay the $35 filing fee.
Can non-residents form Kansas LLCs?
Yes, non-residents can form Kansas LLCs and operate their business in the state. If you operate your business in a different state, such as Nebraska, and want to expand to Kansas, then you’ll need to apply for foreign LLC registration with the Kansas SoS.
Can I change my registered agent later?
Absolutely. If you need to change your registered agent in Kansas, submit a certificate of amendment for a change of resident agent immediately to avoid non-compliance with state law. The amendment can be submitted through your user account on the SoS’ website or sent in by mail using the paper form. Online filings cost $30, while paper filings cost $35. If you decide to switch to LegalZoom, we’ll take care of the paperwork and filing fee for you.
What if I do business in multiple states?
If your Kansas LLC wants to operate in multiple states, you’ll have to apply for foreign qualification in every state in which you want to do business. Additionally, you may have to apply for other states’ business licenses and permits.
Miles Almadrones and Michael H. Cohen, Esq., contributed to this article.
'%20/%3e%3c/svg%3e)
'%3e%3cpath%20fill-rule='evenodd'%20clip-rule='evenodd'%20d='M9.31239%2025.5316H13.0679V14.1032H9.31239V25.5316ZM11.1913%208.46875C9.93945%208.46875%209%209.25086%209%2010.505C9%2011.5995%209.78211%2012.5389%2011.1913%2012.5389C12.6005%2012.5389%2013.3826%2011.5995%2013.3826%2010.505C13.3826%209.4082%2012.6005%208.46875%2011.1913%208.46875ZM27%2018.9577V25.5316H23.2445V19.4275C23.2445%2017.8609%2022.6174%2016.7664%2021.3679%2016.7664C20.2711%2016.7664%2019.644%2017.5463%2019.3316%2018.1756C19.1743%2018.488%2019.1743%2018.8004%2019.1743%2019.1128V25.5316H15.4165V13.9458H19.1743V15.5123C19.644%2014.7302%2020.5835%2013.6357%2022.6174%2013.6357C25.1234%2013.7908%2027%2015.3573%2027%2018.9577Z'%20fill='white'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cdefs%3e%3cclipPath%20id='clip0_952_9489'%3e%3crect%20width='18'%20height='18'%20fill='white'%20transform='translate(9%208)'/%3e%3c/clipPath%3e%3c/defs%3e%3c/svg%3e)
