Form an LLC in Kansas with Inc Authority for Free
Inc Authority is a top-rated online LLC formation service provider in Kansas, offering free LLC formation services to entrepreneurs. With over 30 years of experience and 250,000 businesses formed, Inc Authority is your trusted partner for forming an LLC in Kansas swiftly.
1 Year Registered Agent Service Free
Quick and hassle-free LLC formation in Kansas; filing and reviewing of necessary paperwork at no cost.
A full year of free registered agent service with any LLC formation plan offered by Inc Authority.
Ongoing support to help you manage your LLC and ensure compliance with rules and regulations.
Things to Know Before Starting an LLC in Kansas
Before you start an LLC in Kansas, you need to understand the legal and regulatory requirements specific to the state. You should familiarize yourself with the necessary information and regulations before deciding to start an LLC in Kansas.
Let’s quickly go over some of the crucial requirements:
- LLCs in Kansas are required to file a biennial report. Businesses established in even years file reports in each subsequent even year. Businesses formed in odd years file reports in each subsequent odd year.
- To reserve a name for your LLC, you need to file a Temporary Reservation of Business Entity Name with the Secretary of State for a $35 filing fee ($30 online). This will reserve your chosen LLC name for 120 days.
- In Kansas, you must file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State to start an LLC with your LLC’s official name and mailing address. You may mail it or file it online with $165 and $160 state fees respectively.
- If you hire employees for your LLC in Kansas, you need to register with the Kansas Department of Revenue for withholding taxes. If you earn any income through the business, you have to pay self-employment taxes.
When forming and operating an LLC in Kansas, it’s crucial to make sure that all state laws and regulations are followed and that you understand the implications for your specific business. Inc Authority can assist with LLC formation and legal services for continued compliance needs.
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How to Form an LLC in Kansas
Forming an LLC in Kansas is a straightforward process that involves several essential steps. You need to follow a carefully outlined procedure by the state authorities to ensure compliance with state regulations.
Here are comprehensive steps you need to follow to successfully form your LLC in Kansas.
Select an Official Business Name
To obtain approval for your Kansas LLC registration, you have to select a formal LLC name that is exclusive within the state of Kansas, and includes one of the designated terms: Limited liability company, limited company, L.L.C., LLC, or LC.
You can conduct a thorough Kansas LLC name search to confirm the uniqueness and distinguishability of your business name. Also, examine variations of your chosen name to ensure it does not closely resemble those already in use.
Reserve Your Desired Business Name
After deciding on an available and unique name, filing the formation paperwork is next. But if you’re concerned that there could be a delay in filing the paperwork, you could opt to reserve your company name for up to 120 days.
You’ll need to fill out the Temporary Reservation of Business Entity Name form for a $35 filing fee ($30 online) and submit it to the Kansas Secretary of State. You also need to specify the chosen business name in the form.
Decide on an LLC Type
In Kansas, there are various LLC types to consider, each with its distinct advantages and requirements. You can choose between a single-member LLC or a multi-member LLC depending on the number of LLC members.
LLCs also have an adaptable management structure. You can choose to be a manager-managed LLC run by managers nominated by the members, or a member-managed LLC with shared managerial responsibility among members.
Appoint a Kansas Registered Agent
A registered agent is an individual or entity assigned to receive legal notices, and other essential documents on behalf of your LLC. Every LLC is required by Kansas state law to have a registered agent with a physical address in the state.
Ensure that your chosen registered agent has a physical address in Kansas and is available during business hours. If you prefer, you can enlist the services of a professional LLC formation service company like Inc Authority to handle this.
Create an LLC Operating Agreement
An operating agreement is a must-have document to prevent potential disputes among LLC members. This document sets clear expectations for members and managers regarding the rules for managing your LLC’s operation.
Create an operating agreement that outlines various aspects underlying your LLC’s daily operations. This includes organization and structure, members’ rights, governance rules, and procedures for making major business decisions.
File Your Kansas Articles of Organization
You can now officially register your LLC in Kansas by filing the Articles of Organization paperwork with the Kansas Secretary of State. Your completed application can be filed in person, via mail, via fax, or online.
Filing online will cost you $160. If you prefer mail filing or in-person filing, the fee bumps up to $165. After submission, patiently wait for the Secretary of State’s office to process your Articles of Organization and register your LLC.
File an EIN Application for Your LLC
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is necessary for filing federal tax returns, reporting income, and fulfilling other tax-related tasks. An EIN is tied to your LLC’s legal status and must be obtained if your Kansas LLC intends to hire staff.
Make sure your LLC has received formal approval from the Kansas Secretary of State before applying for an EIN. Submit an online application for an EIN via the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website, or apply by mail using Form SS-4.
Set Up Your Business Bank Account
It is important to organize your LLC finances by setting up a dedicated business banking account. This step not only streamlines your financial management but also ensures a clear separation between personal and business expenses.
To open a new bank account for your LLC in Kansas, you’ll need your LLC’s formation documents, such as the Articles of Organization, EIN obtained from the IRS, and any other identification documents the bank may require.
Obtain Business Licenses and Permits
After registering your LLC in Kansas, you need business licenses and permits before you start operating your LLC. The particular licenses and permits required for your LLC in Kansas depend on the LLC type, location, and industry.
Once you’ve identified the required licenses and permits, follow the application procedures outlined by the relevant authorities. This usually involves submitting specific forms, providing documentation, and paying applicable fees.
Choose Your Tax Structure
After you start an LLC in Kansas, paying taxes is an important part of running your business and staying compliant. Every LLC in Kansas is taxed by the IRS based on state tax rules and the tax structure opted by the business.
A single-member LLC is taxed as a Sole Proprietorship while multi-member LLCs are taxed like a Partnership. Additionally, you may choose to be treated as a Corporation to retain earnings within the business.
Apply for Your Business Trademarks (Optional)
Registering a trademark is essential if you want distinctive branding elements, to set your products or services apart from competitors’ offerings. Based on the kinds of products or services they represent, trademarks are divided into classifications.
Visit the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for a detailed list of classifications that you may use for your LLC. Additionally, check the Kansas Secretary of State’s office to ensure your chosen trademark is not already in use.
Set Up a Bookkeeping System (Optional)
Keeping an up-to-date financial record is an essential step in ensuring your business runs smoothly. While this step is technically optional when creating an LLC in Kansas, maintaining organized financial records is crucial for legal compliance.
You can decide between single-entry and double-entry bookkeeping to consistently record all financial transactions. If managing your accounts becomes overwhelming, consider exploring accounting services to determine the best fit for your LLC.
Get Insurance for Your LLC
Now that you’ve laid the groundwork for your LLC in Kansas, you need to consider securing your investment and assets through insurance. You need to obtain the right coverage to provide valuable protection for your business assets.
An LLC in Kansas with one or more employees is required by state law to acquire workers’ compensation insurance. You can decide to purchase additional insurance depending on the level of risk you can take on and your requirements.
Stay Compliant
Though the process of forming an LLC in Kansas ends with filing Articles of Organization, your responsibilities do not. You have to continuously adhere to state regulations to ensure the smooth operation and longevity of your LLC.
Generally, you have to maintain compliance with your LLC’s tax requirements and file a biennial report. Failure to file the information report on time may result in penalties or, in extreme cases, the dissolution of your LLC.
Why You Should Outsource LLC Formation Instead of Doing it Yourself
Registering an LLC in Kansas involves several steps, as discussed above, and can be overwhelming. This is where outsourcing the LLC formation process to reputable LLC formation service providers can prove to be a strategic and efficient choice.
Simplified Process
Forming an LLC in Kansas involves a series of tasks, each with specific requirements.
Outsourcing allows you to delegate these tasks to experienced people. Professional business formation services have streamlined processes and dedicated personnel, which allows for a quicker and more efficient LLC formation process.
Time Efficiency
The process of forming an LLC in Kansas involves various tasks and government filings.
You may save a lot of time and money by outsourcing these tasks to experts. Professional LLC service providers can streamline the process, ensure swift and accurate completion, and allow you to get your business up and running sooner.
Minimal Errors
The legal requirements for forming an LLC in Kansas can be rigorous and tedious.
DIY attempts may lead to mistakes that could result in costly delays or even legal consequences for your business. Because experts are well-versed in the specific requirements, outsourcing can mitigate the risk of errors and rejections.
Benefits of Starting an LLC in Kansas
An LLC is a widely preferred business entity among entrepreneurs and small business owners. This is due to its ability to offer a combination of advantageous features from both a Sole Proprietorship and a C-Corporation.
Here are some of the benefits of an LLC over other business entities.
Liability Protection
One of the primary benefits of an LLC over other business entities is liability protection. By choosing an LLC, you create a legal entity that separates your personal income and assets from those of the company.
This means that if the Limited Liability Company encounters financial difficulties, faces legal issues, or incurs debts, the personal assets of the members—such as homes, cars, and personal savings—are protected.
Tax Flexibility
LLCs in Kansas have the option to choose how they want to be taxed. By default, LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities, which means that the profits and losses of the business are passed through to the owners’ personal tax returns.
However, LLCs can also choose to be taxed as an S-Corporation or a C-Corporation, which may offer some tax benefits like deductions and write-offs. This flexibility allows you to choose the taxation method that aligns with your financial goals.
Affordable Formation
The initial costs of forming an LLC in Kansas are usually cheaper than those of founding a Corporation. There are few legal and administrative formalities and a comparatively simpler process involved in forming an LLC.
Compared to other business entities, LLCs have lower recurring costs and minimal ongoing compliance requirements after their initial formation process. LLCs have flexible reporting and tax duties, making it an easy-to-run business entity.
Less Paperwork
Setting up an LLC in Kansas involves less formalities and paperwork to file compared to corporations. Operating an LLC also requires fewer operational costs because LLCs often have fewer ongoing compliance formalities.
Furthermore, Kansas LLCs aren’t obligated to hold annual meetings, keep detailed minutes, or appoint a board of directors like corporations. This translates to less paperwork and the freedom to choose what you want to document.
Management Flexibility
In an LLC, you can choose between a member-managed business structure, where all members engage in the daily operations, or a manager-managed structure, where designated managers handle the LLC’s day-to-day operations.
Additionally, a Limited Liability Company is subject to less strict management standards than a Corporation. There are no mandatory board meetings, minutes, or elections, and the management structure is more adaptable.
Ownership Flexibility
Depending on whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or collaborating with partners, you can form a single-member LLC or a multi-member LLC. You can start small with the former and bring in additional members as your business expands.
In addition, the number of LLC members is not limited, and there are fewer restrictions on who may join. This gives flexibility in terms of who may own and run the company by enabling a broad range of ownership arrangements.
Ability to Hold Assets
LLCs offer flexibility in terms of the types of assets that can be held, and they also provide a level of privacy for the owners. The members of Kansas LLCs are legally entitled to hold personal assets separate from the business assets.
This means that the personal assets of the LLC members are protected from the liabilities of the business. In the event of legal action against the LLC or business debt, the members’ assets are generally not at risk.
Ability to Enter into Contractual Agreements
Limited liability companies in Kansas are distinct legal entities, separate from their owners. LLCs can enter into contracts in their business names, and the LLC owners are not required to co-sign agreements personally.
This legal separation not only protects LLC owners’ assets but also lends credibility to the business in contractual dealings. LLCs are more likely to be viewed as reliable and credible partners in contractual relationships.
Inc Authority Kansas LLC Formation Services: Free + Paid Plans
Inc Authority offers free LLC formation services that involve the basics needed to register an LLC in Kansas. However, more comprehensive features and services can be accessed through its two premium plans.
Let’s look at what each plan offers.
Free
Here are the features that come with the free package:
- Business name review: Inc Authority offers a search function on its website that allows you to go through an extensive archive of registered firms to find out if your preferred LLC name is available for use or has already been taken.
- Registered Agent Service for One Year: For the first year, Inc Authority provides free registered agent services, offering a reliable point of contact to receive important documents on behalf of your new business.
- Document management: Your LLC operating agreement, annual report, tax forms, formation paperwork, and other business information are securely kept in your web portal for convenient access with an Inc Authority account.
- Tax advisory: Beyond LLC formation service, Inc Authority provides a complimentary tax consultation with a tax expert who can offer guidance and insights into possible strategies to maximize your tax savings.
- LLC formation: Inc Authority’s free LLC formation services can help you get your LLC up and running quickly. The team assists with filing paperwork and the legal documents needed to register either a domestic or foreign LLC.
- S-Corp election and filing: To attain the federal S-Corporation special tax status for your LLC, you must file an S-Corp election form. You can get assistance from Inc Authority in completing and submitting this form.
- Business Funding Analysis: Access to capital is essential for business growth. With Inc Authority’s free LLC service, you get access to business funding analysis to help you understand funding options for your LLC.
Inc Authority’s free LLC formation plan provides basic features that can help you get your LLC up and running. For add-on features and services, try its paid plans.
Price: Free
Starter
Here are the additional services you’ll get with this plan:
- LLC operating agreement: It’s a good practice for an LLC to have an operating agreement. The Starter plan gives you access to templates that make it easier to create comprehensive LLC operating agreements.
- Employer Identification Number: To operate an LLC in Kansas, you are required by Kansas law to get an Employer Identification Number. The Starter package offered by Inc Authority facilitates an EIN application process.
- Corporate forms and documents: With the Starter plan, you can receive guidance and assistance in drafting the necessary corporate forms and business documents required to establish and run your LLC.
- Annual compliance notifications: After forming an LLC, you must make sure your company is still in good standing with the state. Inc Authority notifies you about important filings, renewals, and other compliance requirements.
- Detailed tax consultation: Compared to the free consultation you get with the free plan, Inc Authority offers personalized guidance on tax matters including sales tax and deductions specific to your business.
- Web domain + 5 business email addresses: The Starter Plan gives you the tools to establish your digital presence. With this plan, you get customized web hosting for your business with five business emails linked to your domain.
Price: Custom
Fasttrack
The additional features you can get with this plan include:
- Customer success advisor: With Inc Authority’s Fasttrack plan, you are assigned a dedicated customer success advisor who will guide you every step of the way. They attend to your inquiries about the registration process, legal requirements, corporate structure optimization, and any aspect you need guidance on.
- Private banking specialist: In addition to a Customer Success Advisor, the Inc Authority Fasttrack Plan also includes a Private Banking Specialist. This specialist will help you understand the various banking options available to your business, open a business bank account, and help you choose the right banking solution for your business.
- Personalized business advisory: With this plan, you can get a thorough analysis of your specific industry, business structure, and competitive landscape from experienced business advisors. Whether you want to grow your LLC or are just getting started, you will receive helpful recommendations to improve your business strategy.
- Expedited preparation and filing: With the highest-tier plan, your business formation documents will be prepared and filed quickly and efficiently. This helps you save time and avoid delays in the LLC formation process. While most businesses need to wait for some days, you can have same-day filing for your LLC application.
The Fasttrack plan is best suited for you if you want a full range of services that will ease the process of launching your company and offer continuous assistance. Go with the free plan if you have a limited budget and don’t mind waiting a few weeks.
Why Choose Inc Authority to Form an LLC in Kansas
There are several reasons why LLC formation with Inc Authority is an ideal choice. With 35 years in the industry, the company has a solid reputation and a broad portfolio to attest to its competence and dependability.
Free LLC Formation Service
Inc Authority offers 100% free LLC formation services, which include preparing and filing your Articles of Organization.
When compared to other LLC formation firms, which sometimes demand exorbitant fees for their services in addition to the necessary filing fees, this can save you hundreds of dollars.
Unparalleled Industry Expertise
Many LLCs have been formed nationwide with Inc Authority’s professional services and useful resources for business owners.
With Inc Authority, you have access to useful resources and a team of professionals including tax specialists and business advisors who have the know-how and expertise to help you.
100% Hassle-Free Experience
You won’t have to worry about any of the hassles involved in starting an LLC in Kansas on your own when you choose Inc Authority.
All your business document filings and paperwork will be handled. Plus, the online platform makes it easy to track the progress of your LLC formation and access any necessary documents.
FAQ
Starting a limited liability company with more than one member involves a similar process as starting a multi-member LLC.
Here is the step-by-step process involved:
- Choose a Name for Your LLC: Select a unique business name for your LLC that is not already in use. You can check the availability of your desired name by searching the Kansas Secretary of State’s Business Search database.
- Reserve Your Chosen Business Name: If there is a delay in filing paperwork, file the Temporary Reservation of Business Entity Name form to reserve your chosen name for up to 120 days at a $35 filing fee ($30 online).
- Appoint a Registered Resident Agent: Choose a person or business entity that is authorized to receive legal notices, official documents, and other business or legal correspondence on behalf of your LLC.
- Create an Operating Agreement: Draft an LLC operating agreement that outlines the ownership structure, member roles, and profit and loss distribution for the members in your LLC.
- File the Articles of Organization: File Articles of Organization with the Kansas Secretary of State. This document will include information about your LLC, such as its name, registered agent, and members.
- Obtain an EIN from the IRS: An IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique identifier for your LLC. Submit an online application for an EIN via the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website.
- Open a Business Bank Account: Open a business bank account to separate your personal and business finances. This will help you better manage your business income and expenses.
- Obtain Necessary Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on the nature of your business, you need to obtain specific licenses and permits from the state or local government to start operating your LLC.
- Plan Your Tax Structure: Paying taxes is an important ongoing obligation for your business. You can be taxed as a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership, or you can opt to be taxed as a Corporation to keep profits within the firm.
- Get a Business Trademark: Register a business trademark to set your products or services apart from competitors’ offerings. You can check with the Kansas Secretary of State’s office to ensure the availability of your desired trademark.
- Set Up a Bookkeeping System: Set up a bookkeeping system to track your LLC’s income, expenses, and other financial transactions. This will help you during the tax preparation process.
- Obtain Business Insurance: Obtain the necessary business insurance to protect your LLC from potential risks and liabilities. One such business insurance for your LLC is worker’s compensation insurance.
- Stay Compliant: To guarantee that your LLC runs smoothly, you must stay in compliance with ongoing obligations. Most importantly, you must comply with your LLC’s tax requirements and biennial information report filing.
In Kansas, all LLCs are required to file biennial information reports with the Kansas Secretary of State. If your LLC was established in an even year, you are required to file your information report during subsequent even years.
On the other hand, businesses established in an odd year must file information reports in each consecutive odd year. You can follow these steps to file the biennial information reports for your limited liability company:
- Before you begin the filing process, keep the necessary information at hand including your LLC’s name, principal office address, names and addresses of members/managers, and any other details required by the state.
- Visit the official website of the Kansas Secretary of State. Here, you will find the specific section for LLC information reports. Complete the information report form by filling in the requested information.
- In Kansas, the biennial report requires a filing fee of $110 for paper and $100 for online filing. After filling out the form and paying the filing fee, submit the report via the Secretary of State’s website.
- After submission, it’s a good practice to monitor your email for any confirmation or updates. You can keep a record of the filed information report and any confirmation receipts for your reference in case of any processing delays or issues.
Kansas LLCs operate as pass-through entities, implying that the LLC itself is not responsible for the direct payment of federal taxes. However, two distinct state taxes are obligatory to remit to the state Department of Revenue: Kansas state income tax and Kansas state sales tax.
Any income you pay to yourself is subject to Kansas income tax. Additionally, if your business involves the sale of tangible goods or specific services, you need to gather sales tax from customers and remit it to the Kansas Department of Revenue.
Yes. LLCs, sole proprietorships, and general partnerships are all different types of business structures with varying levels of personal liability for the owners. LLCs are considered separate legal entities from LLC owners and provide limited liability protection for their owners.
This means that members of a Limited Liability Company are not personally liable for the debts and obligations of the LLC. The members’ assets are generally protected from business debts and liabilities which is not the case for a Sole Proprietorship or General Partnership where members are entitled to the business profits and debts.
A resident agent, also known as a registered agent, is an authorized person or entity designated to receive official and legal documents on behalf of the LLC. If you registered an LLC in Kansas, you would have designated an initial registered resident agent when you registered your company.
If you decide to change who your resident agent is, you will have to submit a Change of Registered Office/Resident Agent form online through the Kansas Business Center website, by mail, or in person to the Kansas Secretary of State. Profit organizations must pay a $35 filing fee, while non-profit organizations must pay $20.
Form an LLC in Kansas for Free with Inc Authority
Forming an LLC can be a daunting task for many emerging entrepreneurs, but with Inc Authority, the process is simplified.
It offers a seamless and hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on what matters most—growing your business.
$0 + State Filing Fees