How to Start an LLC in Kansas (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re considering forming a Kansas LLC, you’re making a smart choice for protecting your assets while enjoying flexibility in business operations.

To establish your LLC successfully, you must choose a unique business name, designate a registered agent, and file Kansas LLC Articles of Organization.

But there’s more.

Forming your LLC in Kansas costs about $160 to file online and $165 by mail. Online filings are processed immediately; mail filings take two to three business days.

This guide compiles all the information you need to start an LLC in Kansas today.

What Are the Steps to Start an LLC in Kansas?

To start an LLC in Kansas, you need to:

• Step 1. Select and choose a unique name for your Kansas LLC
• Step 2. Select a Kansas registered agent
• Step 3. File Kansas LLC Articles of Organization
• Step 4. Create an Operating Agreement
• Step 5. Get an EIN from the IRS
• Step 6. File a BOI Report
• Step 7. File biennial information reports

Step 1: Select and Choose a Unique Name for Your Kansas LLC

Choosing a name for your Kansas LLC is an essential first step. The name must be unique and distinguishable from existing business names in the state.

Your LLC name must include one of these designations:

• Limited Liability Company
• Limited Company
• L.L.C.
• LLC
• L.C.
• LC

Perform a Kansas LLC name search to see if your desired name is available. Look for variations of your name. If it’s too similar to another business, it may be rejected.

If you find a good name, you can reserve it for $35 by filing a Temporary Reservation of Business Entity Name. If approved, the name will be held for 120 days.

During this time, you can check for trademarks and register a matching URL, which helps avoid legal issues later.

Kansas does not allow the registration of trade names (DBAs). You can use a more straightforward name for marketing without notifying the state, but your official name must meet the legal requirements.

Step 2: Select a Kansas Registered Agent for Your LLC

A registered agent acts as the point of contact between your LLC and the state. This person or business receives critical legal documents on behalf of your LLC. This includes service of process, tax documents, and official correspondence.

In Kansas, a Registered Agent is also called a Resident Agent

Who Can Be a Registered Agent?

You have a few options for who can be your Registered Agent in Kansas:

• You: You can act as your registered agent, but remember you must be available during business hours to receive documents.
• A Family Member: A trusted family member can be your registered agent.
• An LLC Formation Service: Professional services offer expertise in handling official correspondence and ensuring compliance with state regulations.
• A Lawyer: A legal service firm can also serve as your registered agent, providing additional legal support if needed.

Requirements for Kansas Registered Agents

Kansas law requires registered agents to have a physical street address, not just a P.O. Box. The address must be where the agent can consistently receive legal documents and official mail during regular business hours.

Additionally, the registered agent must be at least 18 years old and available to accept service of process. This means they must be present to handle any legal notices or court documents delivered to the LLC.

What registered agents do I recommend for Kansas?

I highly recommend Northwest registered agent services for obvious reasons.

They offer a range of benefits that set them apart, including a free year of registered agent service, which helps you save (about $300) on initial costs.

You’ll receive a complimentary operating agreement essential for outlining your LLC’s internal structure. My favorite part? Northwest also allows you to use their office address for your LLC filing, keeping your address off public records and enhancing your privacy.

Their free email forwarding service ensures you stay on top of important correspondence, and their exceptional customer support is always available to assist you whenever needed.

Step 3: File Kansas LLC Articles of Organization

To officially set up your LLC in Kansas, you must file the Articles of Organization with the Kansas Secretary of State. This document confirms that your business exists and is authorized to operate.

This form includes essential details such as your LLC’s name, address, registered agent, and members’ or managers’ names.

To file your Articles of Organization in Kansas, follow these steps:

Step #1. Complete the Form: Obtain and complete the Articles of Organization form from the Kansas Secretary of State website.

Include the following:

• Your LLC’s name
• The registered agent’s name, address, and signature names and addresses of managers (if your LLC is manager-managed)
• Signature of an authorized representative or member

Step #2: File Online or by Mail: You can file your Articles of Organization online through the Kansas Secretary of State or by mailing the completed form to:

Kansas Secretary of State
Memorial Hall, 1st Floor
120 SW 10th Avenue
Topeka KS 66612

Step #3: Pay the Filing Fee: The filing fee is $160 for online filings and $165 for mail filings.

E-checks and credit/debit cards are accepted for online submissions, and checks and credit/debit cards are accepted for mail submissions.

Once your articles are filed, the state will review and approve them.

This process is immediate for online filings and takes two to three business days for mail filings. After approval, your LLC is officially recognized, and you can start your business activities, obtain your EIN, open a bank account, etc.

Step 4: Prepare Your LLC Operating Agreement

An LLC Operating Agreement is an essential internal document for your Kansas LLC. It outlines how your business will be run and details the rights and responsibilities of its members.

While Kansas does not require an operating agreement, having one is wise. It helps prevent misunderstandings among members and protects your limited liability status.

Here are some key components to include in your operating agreement if you choose to prepare one:

• Ownership Structure: Listing all members and their ownership percentages.
• Management Roles: Specify who will manage the LLC. This can be member-managed or manager-managed.
• Voting Rights: Define how decisions will be made. Will all members have equal votes?
• Profit Distribution: Explain how profits and losses will be shared among members.
• Meeting Procedures: Outline how often meetings will occur and how members will be notified.
• Amendment Process: Describe how changes can be made to the agreement in the future.

Creating an operating agreement may feel complex, but it’s essential for clarity.

It serves as your LLC’s rulebook, guiding operations and avoiding conflicts down the line. Keeping everyone on the same page is even more vital if you have partners.

Step 5: Obtain an EIN for Your LLC

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique identifier for your LLC. It is necessary for tax purposes and helps you open a business bank account.

Your EIN is essential for several business functions:

• Banking: You need it to open a business bank account. This helps keep your personal and business finances separate.
• Credit: It allows you to apply for a business line of credit.
• Permits and Contracts: Many permits and contracts require an EIN for identification.

Getting your EIN is a crucial step in setting up your Kansas LLC. Make sure to apply as soon as you complete your LLC formation.

How to Apply for an EIN:

• Online: Visit the IRS website. This is the fastest way to get your EIN.
• By Mail: Fill out Form SS-4 and send it to the IRS. This option takes longer.
• By Fax: You can also fax the completed Form SS-4.
• Phone: U.S. residents can call the IRS at 1-800-829-4933 to apply.

How Much Does It Cost To Get EIN?

Obtaining an EIN is free. However, some services charge $100 or more to help you with the entire process.

How Does it Take to Obtain my EIN?

• Online: Get it immediately.
• By Mail: Expect 4 to 6 weeks.
• By Fax: It takes at least 1-2weeks

Step 6: File a BOI Report

After setting up your LLC in Kansas, you must file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report. This is a federal requirement for new LLCs.

You must submit this report to FinCEN within 90 days of forming your LLC. Filing is free and can be done online at the FinCEN website.

Here’s what you need to prepare:

• Company Information: Name, address, and formation date.
• Beneficial Owners: Full names, addresses, dates of birth, and identification numbers.

Gather this information along with your LLC formation documents. This will help streamline the filing process.

Completing the BOI report is essential for maintaining compliance with federal regulations. It ensures transparency about who owns and controls your LLC. Take the time to do this correctly to avoid any potential penalties.

Step 7: File a Biennial Information Report for your Kansas LLC

A Biennial Report is an Information Report that collects basic details about your LLC and helps keep it in good standing with the Kansas Secretary of State’s office.

Before 2024, LLCs had to file an Annual Report, but now the state only requires LLCs to file this report every two years.

This change simplifies the filing process for LLCs, reducing the frequency of submissions while still ensuring compliance with state regulations.

Include the following when filing the report:

• Business entity’s ID number issued by the Kansas Secretary of State
• Complete business entity name
• LLC principal office
• Reporting year
• Each member of the LLC who owns 5% or more of the capital must be named along with the address where they may be regularly located.
• Signature of the authorized person

Filing can be done online or by mail to:

Kansas Secretary of State
Memorial Hall, 1st Floor
120 SW 10th Avenue
Topeka KS 66612

The Biennial Report fee is $100 if filed online, with processing completed within 24 hours. For those preferring to file by mail, the cost is $110, and processing takes 3-5 business days.

All Kansas LLCs conducting business in the state must submit this report to remain in compliance.

The filing deadline for the Biennial Report depends on whether your LLC was formed in an even or odd year.

If your LLC was formed in an even-numbered year, the report will be due every even year. If your LLC was formed in an odd-numbered year, the report will be due in odd-numbered years.

The report must be filed by the 15th day of the fourth month after your tax closing month, typically April 15th for most LLCs with a December tax year-end.

You can submit your Biennial Report as early as the first day of your LLC’s fiscal month.

Failure to file your Biennial Report within 90 days of the due date may result in the administrative dissolution of your LLC by the Kansas Secretary of State.

What are the Different Methods To Start a Kansas LLC?

You have several options when it comes to starting an LLC in Kansas. The method you choose will depend on your budget, comfort level with paperwork, and the complexity of your business needs. Here are the main methods available:

DIY LLC Formation in Kansas

Forming an LLC by yourself is a straightforward option. You will fill out and submit the Kansas Articles of Organization and pay the required filing fee.

All by yourself, no third party!

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: You save money by not hiring anyone.
• Control: You have complete oversight of each step.
• Learning Opportunity: You gain knowledge about the process.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming: It may take longer if you are unfamiliar with the process.
• Complexity: You must ensure all forms are correctly filled out.
• Privacy issue: If you serve as your registered agent, you risk having your address out there.
• Lack of Guidance: You might miss the necessary steps.

Using a Professional/Online LLC Formation Services

Many online services can help you form your LLC. These platforms guide you through the entire process, handling most paperwork.

Pros:

• Convenient: They manage the filing, saving you time.
• User-Friendly: Most platforms have easy-to-understand instructions.
• Support Available: Many offer customer service for questions.
• Privacy benefits: Most services allow you to use their address for free, so your address doesn’t get compromised

Cons:

• Costs: You’ll pay a service fee.
• Variable Quality: Some services may not be as reliable as others.

Hiring an Attorney

Working with an attorney is another option for forming your LLC. This method ensures you have professional legal guidance throughout the process.

Pros:

• Expertise: An attorney knows the legal requirements and can avoid pitfalls.
• Customization: Your LLC can be tailored to your specific business needs.
• Support with Complex Situations: Ideal for businesses with unique circumstances.

Cons:

• Higher Costs: Legal fees can be expensive.
• Dependence on Others: You may rely heavily on the attorney’s schedule.
• Potential Delays: The process may take longer due to attorney workloads.

What is The Cheapest Alternative Way to Form an LLC in Kansas?

If you want to start an LLC in Kansas on a budget, the most affordable option is to do it online. By filing the Articles of Organization directly with the Kansas Secretary of State, you can keep costs between $160 and $165, depending on your filing method.

This DIY approach helps you avoid the extra fees of hiring a service or lawyer, saving you money for other business expenses.

However, while DIY is cost-effective, it requires some effort. You’ll need to understand all the forms and regulations, and missing a detail could delay your application or create problems later.

Consider using a registered agent if you prefer not to handle everything yourself.

They can make the process smoother by ensuring you receive important documents and helping you stay compliant with state requirements. Although this adds a bit to the cost, it can provide valuable support and peace of mind.

Who Provides the Best LLC Services in Kansas?

There are a myriad of Kansas LLC services from which to choose. Choosing the wrong one can affect your Kansas LLC formation timeline—I know this from my experience using a few and researching a dozen over the years.

Here are some top-rated options you should consider:

Best Kansas LLC Service	Google Rating	LLC Formation Cost	Registered Agent Fee
Northwest Registered Agent	4.7/5	$39	Free for 1 year
Doola	4.6/5	$0 (plus state fees)	$297/year
Tailor Brands	4.4/5	$0 (plus state fees)	$199/year
ZenBusiness	N/A	$0 (plus state fees)	$199/year

Besides, the fact that other services bill you for their registered agent in the first year, and Northwest offers it for free, is a HUGE plus for me.

Northwest Registered Agent stands out in Kansas LLC formation due to its commitment to transparency, customer service, and privacy. Using their address helps protect your personal information, making them a reliable choice.

How Much Does It Cost To Form an LLC in Kansas?

Forming an LLC in Kansas costs around $160 when filed online and $165 by mail, which covers the Kansas LLC formation fees. However, there are other fees you need to be aware of.

Here’s a breakdown of the entire Kansas LLC costs:

Requirement	Cost
New LLC Filing Fee (Articles of Organization)	$160 (online), $165 (mail)
Name Reservation (optional)	$35
LLC Formation Service (optional)	$39 (via Northwest)
Registered Agent Fee (optional)	$0 (via Northwest)
Biennial Information Report (yearly)	$100 (online), $110 (mail)
Total Estimated Cost	$260 – $350

When forming a new company in Kansas, it is ideal to budget about $260-$350 for the first year. Then, if you want to go further, you can get other bells and whistles like a virtual mailbox, custom website, trademark services, premium EIN services, etc.

The most significant (and essential) expense for every Kansas business owner is filing the Articles of Organization, which costs $160 when filed online and $165 by mail.

Pros and Cons of Forming an LLC in Kansas

6 Important Things To Do After Creating Your Kansas LLC

After forming your LLC in Kansas, key steps must be taken to ensure your business operates smoothly. These tasks will help you stay compliant, secure necessary permits, and establish your operational framework.

1. Research the Best Licenses and Permits for Your Business

To operate legally in Kansas, you may need specific licenses and permits. The requirements depend on your business type and location.

Start by checking the Kansas Business One Stop Portal for state-level permits. You might need a general business license, health permits, or industry-specific licenses.

Additionally, check your local city or county regulations. Many local governments require their licenses or permits. Be sure to apply for these permits early. Operating without the necessary licenses can result in fines or business shutdowns.

Federal and Kansas State laws require that certain posters be displayed in the workplace. The appropriate agencies provide FREE downloads of all the necessary posters.

The following posters are required by the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) and may be downloaded and printed:

• Unemployment Insurance Poster
• Attorney General of Kansas Human Trafficking Resources poster
• Workers Compensation Posting Notice Poster
• KDOL Human Trafficking Brochure
• Child Labor Poster

2. Create Business Accounts for Your Kansas LLC

Opening a separate bank account for your LLC is essential for keeping your business finances organized and distinct from your funds. This separation simplifies your accounting and helps safeguard your assets by clearly distinguishing between personal and business transactions.

When choosing a bank, look for one that offers business-friendly services, such as waived fees, free online banking, and other features that can benefit your business. To open the account, be prepared to provide your EIN and a copy of your Articles of Organization.

A dedicated business account streamlines your financial management and simplifies tax preparation.

Having all your business transactions in one place lets you easily track your income and expenses, ensuring everything is well-organized and accessible when tax season rolls around.

3. Understanding Kansas Tax Requirements and Managing Your Taxes

If you are an employer, you are expected to you as an employer can apply for an unemployment insurance tax account.

An unemployment insurance tax account allows employers to receive support with reporting work layoffs and new hires, applying for the Shared Work Program, viewing the current tax rate, submitting quarterly wage reports, uploading data files, making a payment at any time, reporting new hires and changes, getting copies of past filings and reports, and using SIDES to enter requested information.

Kansas LLCs are subject to various tax requirements. You will need to file federal income tax and may owe self-employment taxes.

Kansas does not impose a franchise tax for state taxes, which benefits your business. However, you might need to collect and remit sales tax if you sell goods or services.

Please also keep track of local taxes, as some cities have regulations. Always file your tax returns on time to avoid penalties.

4. File Your Kansas Biennial Information Report

A Biennial Report is an Information Report that collects basic details about your LLC and helps keep it in good standing with the Kansas Secretary of State’s office.

Include the following when filing the report:

• Business entity’s ID number issued by the Kansas Secretary of State
• Complete business entity name
• LLC principal office
• Reporting year
• Each member of the LLC who owns 5% or more of the capital must be named along with the address where they may be regularly located.
• Signature of the authorized person

Filing can be done online or by mail. The Biennial Report fee is $100 if filed online, with processing completed within 24 hours. For those preferring to file by mail, the cost is $110, and processing takes 3-5 business days.

The filing deadline for the Biennial Report depends on whether your LLC was formed in an even or odd year.

If your LLC was formed in an even-numbered year, the report will be due every even year. If your LLC was formed in an odd-numbered year, the report will be due in odd-numbered years.

The report must be filed by the 15th day of the fourth month after your tax closing month, typically April 15th for most LLCs with a December tax year-end.

Failure to file your Biennial Report within 90 days of the due date may result in the administrative dissolution of your LLC by the Kansas Secretary of State.

Set a yearly reminder to ensure you don’t forget this important task.

5. Get Business Insurance for an LLC

Just as you wouldn’t leave your home without coverage, your LLC also needs the right business insurance to guard against potential risks and liabilities. Insurance protects your company’s assets and ensures financial stability in case of unforeseen issues or legal claims.

Your insurance needs will vary based on your business operations.

Consider general liability insurance, which covers injury claims and property damage. You might also look into professional liability insurance if you offer specialized services. This protects you against claims of negligence or poor work.

Commercial property insurance can protect your business assets, such as equipment and inventory. Depending on your needs, worker’s compensation insurance may also be necessary if you hire employees.

Kansas does not offer a state-run workers’ compensation program, unlike many other states. Private employers are generally required to obtain private workers’ compensation coverage unless they are eligible to operate as self-insured entities.

Conversely, if you run your business as a consultant and work remotely, you might only need professional liability insurance to cover potential service errors or omissions.

Assessing your business needs helps you choose the appropriate coverage to protect your LLC.

6. Set Up Your Business Online Presence (optional)

Having an online presence is essential in today’s market. Consider creating a professional website. This acts as a platform for potential customers to find information about your services.

Engage with your audience on social media. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram can help promote your brand and connect with customers.

Claim your business on Google My Business. This will improve your visibility in local searches. Ensure that your contact information is accurate across all platforms.

Kansas LLC vs. S Corp vs. Partnerships vs. Sole Proprietorship vs. Corporations

Understanding your options is crucial when starting a business in Kansas. Each type has unique features that can affect your operations, taxes, and liability.

Sole Proprietorship

A Kansas sole proprietorship is the most straightforward way to start a business. Imagine you’re running a lemonade stand on your own. You make all the decisions and keep all the profits.

However, there’s no legal separation between you and your business. If your lemonade stand faces financial trouble or legal issues, your assets, like your car or home, could be at risk.

It’s easy to set up and manage, but it does leave you personally responsible for any business debts.

Partnership

A Kansas partnership involves teaming up with one or more people to run a business together.

Think of it as joining forces with a friend to open a café. You share the profits and responsibilities, and you both make business decisions.

However, like a sole proprietorship, each partner is personally liable for any business debts or legal issues. If the business encounters financial trouble, your assets could be at risk, too. Partnerships are relatively easy to set up but require clear agreements between partners to avoid conflicts.

LLC (Limited Liability Company)

An LLC offers a blend of flexibility and protection.

Picture it as a protective umbrella over your lemonade stand. This structure separates your assets from your business, so if your LLC faces legal issues or debts, your personal belongings are generally safe.

LLCs are more formal than sole proprietorships or partnerships but offer management and tax treatment flexibility. They are ideal for small—to medium-sized businesses that want liability protection without the complexity of a corporation.

S-Corporation

An S Corporation is a more structured business form.

Think of it as a business where owners are shareholders, much like a small-scale company with multiple investors. It protects liability and allows profits to pass through to your tax return, avoiding double taxation.

This means you report the income and losses on your tax return, which can be beneficial for tax purposes. However, S Corps have stricter operational requirements and formalities compared to LLCs.

Corporation

A Kansas corporation is the most complex structure, suitable for larger businesses aiming for significant growth. Imagine a big company with many shareholders. A corporation offers robust liability protection and is a separate legal entity from its owners, meaning your assets are protected.

Corporations can raise capital more efficiently by issuing stock and can offer employee benefits.

However, they come with extensive regulatory requirements, formalities, and paperwork, making them more suitable for businesses with significant resources and expansion plans.

My Final Thoughts: Forming an LLC in Kansas

Starting an LLC in Kansas is an exciting step toward bringing your business idea to life. Although it might seem like many steps initially, breaking them down makes the process more manageable and ensures you cover all the essential bases.

Starting an LLC in Kansas involves several key steps:

• Choose a name for your LLC.
• Designate a registered agent in Kansas.
• File the Articles of Organization with the Kansas Secretary of State.
• Prepare an operating agreement.
• Obtain an EIN from the IRS
• File a BOI Report
• File the biennial information report as required.

The filing fee for the Articles of Organization is $160 when filed online and $165 by mail.

After forming your LLC, prepare for biennial information reports, which cost $100 yearly when filed online and $110 yearly by mail.

Now that you know the steps and costs, you’re ready to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey.

Learn More About Starting an LLC in Kansas

If you need additional help to start an LLC in Kansas, check out these valuable resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my registered agent in Kansas?

Yes, you can change your registered agent in Kansas. You must file the appropriate form with the Kansas Secretary of State to update your registered agent information.

How do I change my Kansas LLC’s name?

To change the name of your LLC, you must file an amendment with the Kansas Secretary of State. This involves submitting the correct form and paying any related fees.

How do I renew my Kansas LLC?

For your LLC to stay compliant, you must file a biennial report. The report is due every two years, and paying the associated fee is part of the renewal process.

How do I dissolve an LLC in Kansas?

To dissolve your LLC, file the Articles of Dissolution with the Kansas Secretary of State. Be sure to settle all debts and obligations before proceeding.

How do I add a member to a Kansas LLC?

You should update your LLC operating agreement to add a member to reflect the change. No formal filing is required to add members.

How do I add a DBA to an LLC in Kansas?

Unlike most other states, Kansas doesn’t allow businesses to register trade names, also known as fictitious names or “doing business as” (DBA) names. If you want to use a more casual version of your LLC’s formal name for branding and marketing purposes, you can do so without alerting the state.

Can a minor own an LLC in Kansas?

A minor can own an LLC in Kansas, but usually, a parent or guardian must manage the LLC until the minor reaches adulthood.

When is the Kansas Biennial Report due?

The Kansas Biennial Report is due every two years. It must be filed by the 15th day of the fourth month after your tax closing month, typically April 15th for most LLCs with a December tax year-end. Be sure to file it on time to avoid penalties.

Does LLC expire in Kansas?

An LLC does not automatically expire in Kansas, but failing to file required reports or fees can lead to dissolution.

Can a non-resident open an LLC in Kansas?

Yes, a non-resident can open an LLC in Kansas. You must still appoint a registered agent with a Kansas address.

Can I buy a house or car with my LLC in Kansas?

Yes, your LLC can buy property or vehicles in Kansas. To maintain limited liability protections, ensure the purchase is in the LLC’s name.

Can you have multiple businesses under one LLC in Kansas?

In Kansas, you can operate multiple businesses under one LLC. However, to avoid complications, it’s essential to maintain clear records for each business.

Is Kansas an excellent state in which to form an LLC? Is it worth it?

Kansas offers advantages like lower fees and a straightforward process, making it a good choice for forming an LLC. Evaluate your needs to determine if it suits your goals.

Can one person form an LLC in Kansas?

Yes, one person can form an LLC in Kansas. A single-member LLC is a standard option for individual entrepreneurs.