Kansas LLC Annual Report: Fee & Due Date (2026)
Every limited liability company (LLC) registered to do business in Kansas must file an annual report with the Kansas Secretary of State. The report updates the LLC's information, including its registered agent and principal office address. The filing fee is $50 for online submissions or $55 for paper filings. The due date is the 15th day of the 4th month following the close of the LLC's tax period, which is typically April 15th for calendar year filers.
Quick Answer
- Form
- Annual Report (online or paper form)
- Agency
- Kansas Secretary of State
- Filing fee
- $50 (online), $55 (paper) (2026)
- Due date
- 15th day of 4th month after tax period close (e.g., April 15 for calendar year)
- Filing method
- Online via Business Entity Filing portal, or mail
- Penalty
- Forfeiture of authority to transact business
- State tax
- LLCs are pass-through; no state corporate income tax
Kansas LLC Annual Report Overview
The Kansas LLC annual report is a mandatory filing that keeps your limited liability company's registration current with the Kansas Secretary of State. This report ensures that the state has up-to-date information about your business, such as its principal office address, the name and address of its registered agent, and the names and addresses of its managers or members. Filing the annual report is crucial for maintaining your LLC's good standing and its legal authority to conduct business in Kansas.
Unlike some states that require annual reports to be filed on the anniversary of formation, Kansas ties the due date to the LLC's tax period. This means that while most LLCs will file by April 15th, those with fiscal tax years will have different due dates. The report can be filed conveniently online through the Secretary of State's Business Entity Filing portal, which is also the most cost-effective method.
Failure to file the annual report and pay the associated fee can lead to serious consequences, including the forfeiture of your LLC's authority to transact business in Kansas. This can result in the loss of liability protection and other legal disadvantages. Therefore, understanding and adhering to the annual report requirements is a critical compliance task for every Kansas LLC.
Kansas LLC Annual Report Due Date
The Kansas LLC annual report is due on the 15th day of the 4th month following the close of the LLC's tax period. For the vast majority of LLCs that operate on a calendar year (January 1 to December 31), this means the annual report is due by April 15th each year. If April 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date shifts to the next business day.
It is important to note that this due date is tied to the LLC's tax period, not its formation date. LLCs that have adopted a fiscal tax year will have a different annual report due date. For example, an LLC with a tax period ending on June 30th would have an annual report due date of October 15th.
The Kansas Secretary of State typically sends out reminder notices for annual reports, but it is the LLC's responsibility to ensure timely filing regardless of whether a reminder is received. You can verify your LLC's tax period and annual report due date by checking your LLC's records or by contacting the Kansas Secretary of State's office.
Kansas LLC Annual Report Fee (2026)
The filing fee for the Kansas LLC annual report depends on the method of filing:
- Online Filing: $50
- Paper Filing (by mail): $55
These fees are current for the 2026 reporting year. The Kansas Secretary of State encourages online filing due to its efficiency and slightly lower cost. The fee must be paid at the time of filing the annual report. For online filings, payment is typically made via credit card or electronic check. For paper filings, a check or money order made payable to the "Kansas Secretary of State" is required.
It is important to budget for this annual fee as part of your LLC's ongoing compliance costs. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid each year to maintain your LLC's good standing in Kansas. The table below summarizes the common fees associated with Kansas LLC compliance:
| Item | Fee (2026) | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| LLC Annual Report (online) | $50 | Kansas Secretary of State |
| LLC Annual Report (paper) | $55 | Kansas Secretary of State |
| Certificate of Authority (Foreign LLC) Annual Report (online) | $50 | Kansas Secretary of State |
| Certificate of Authority (Foreign LLC) Annual Report (paper) | $55 | Kansas Secretary of State |
| Initial Certificate of Organization (Domestic LLC) | $160 (online), $165 (paper) | Kansas Secretary of State |
| Application for Certificate of Authority (Foreign LLC) | $160 (online), $165 (paper) | Kansas Secretary of State |
| Registered Agent Change | $20 (online), $25 (paper) | Kansas Secretary of State |
| Federal EIN | $0 (free) | IRS |
How to File the Kansas LLC Annual Report
The Kansas LLC annual report can be filed either online or by mail. Online filing is generally the preferred method due to its speed, lower cost, and immediate confirmation.
Online Filing
- Access the Business Entity Filing Portal: Navigate to the Kansas Secretary of State's website and locate the "Business Entity Filing" portal. You will typically need to search for your business entity by name or business entity ID.
- Locate Your LLC: Once you find your LLC, select the option to file an annual report.
- Review and Update Information: The online form will pre-populate with your
LLC's current information on file. Carefully review all details, including:
- Principal office address
- Registered agent name and address
- Names and addresses of managers or members (depending on management structure)
- Nature of business
- Pay the Fee: Submit the $50 online filing fee using a credit card or electronic check.
- Confirmation: Upon successful submission and payment, you will receive an immediate confirmation that your annual report has been filed.
Paper Filing (by Mail)
- Download the Form: Obtain the appropriate paper annual report form from the Kansas Secretary of State's website under their "Business Forms" section. Ensure you download the correct form for a Limited Liability Company.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the form completely and accurately. Provide all required information, including any updates to your LLC's details.
- Prepare Payment: Make a check or money order for $55 payable to the "Kansas Secretary of State."
- Mail the Form: Send the completed form and payment to the address provided on the form or on the Secretary of State's website.
- Processing Time: Paper filings generally take longer to process than online submissions. Keep a copy of your submitted form and payment for your records.
Regardless of the method chosen, it is critical to file before the due date to avoid penalties and maintain your LLC's good standing.
Registered Agent Information on the Annual Report
One of the most critical pieces of information updated by the Kansas LLC annual report is the registered agent and registered office address. Every LLC authorized to transact business in Kansas must continuously maintain a registered agent with a physical street address in Kansas (the registered office). The registered agent is the official point of contact for receiving legal documents, state correspondence, and service of process on behalf of the LLC.
When filing your annual report, you must verify that the registered agent information on file is accurate and up-to-date. If there has been a change in your registered agent or their registered office address, you must update this information on the annual report. Alternatively, a separate "Statement of Change of Registered Office or Registered Agent" form can be filed with the Kansas Secretary of State for a fee of $20 (online) or $25 (paper).
It is essential that your registered agent remains current and reliable. If the Secretary of State cannot reach your LLC through its registered agent, it can lead to serious issues, including the forfeiture of your LLC's authority to transact business. For more information on the role and requirements of a registered agent, see our comprehensive guide on what is a registered agent.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to file the Kansas LLC annual report by its due date can lead to significant penalties and the loss of your LLC's good standing. The primary consequence is the forfeiture of the LLC's authority to transact business in Kansas. This means:
- Loss of Good Standing: Your LLC will no longer be considered in good standing with the state, which can impact its ability to obtain loans, contracts, or licenses.
- Loss of Liability Protection: The limited liability protection afforded by the LLC structure may be jeopardized, potentially exposing members to personal liability for the LLC's debts and obligations.
- Inability to Sue or Defend: A forfeited LLC may lose its right to bring or defend lawsuits in Kansas courts.
- Administrative Dissolution: If the annual report remains unfiled for an extended period, the Kansas Secretary of State may administratively dissolve the LLC, effectively terminating its legal existence.
To reinstate a forfeited LLC, you will typically need to file all delinquent annual reports, pay all outstanding fees and any associated penalties, and potentially file a reinstatement application. This process can be more complex and costly than simply filing the annual report on time. Therefore, proactive compliance is strongly advised to avoid these severe repercussions.
Kansas LLC State Tax Context
Kansas LLCs are generally treated as pass-through entities for state income tax purposes, mirroring their federal tax treatment. This means the LLC itself does not typically pay state corporate income tax. Instead, the LLC's profits and losses are "passed through" to the individual members, who then report these on their personal Kansas income tax returns (Form K-40).
Kansas does impose a state income tax on individuals, with various tax brackets. LLC members will be subject to this personal income tax on their share of the LLC's profits. For multi-member LLCs taxed as partnerships, the LLC may need to file an informational partnership return (Form K-120S) with the Kansas Department of Revenue, but no tax is paid at the entity level.
Kansas also has a state sales tax, which businesses (including LLCs) must collect and remit if they sell taxable goods or services. Businesses must register for a sales tax permit with the Kansas Department of Revenue if they engage in such activities. There are also various other business taxes, such as withholding tax for employees, that an LLC might be subject to depending on its operations.
It is important to distinguish the annual report filing with the Secretary of State from any tax filings with the Kansas Department of Revenue. While the annual report is a corporate compliance requirement, tax filings address the LLC's income and sales tax obligations. For detailed information on Kansas business taxes, consult the Kansas Department of Revenue.
EIN and Federal Tax Obligations
While the Kansas annual report focuses on state-level corporate compliance, it's important to remember federal tax obligations. Most Kansas LLCs will need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. An EIN is a federal tax ID number used to identify a business entity for tax purposes, similar to a Social Security number for individuals.
An EIN is required if your LLC has more than one member, has employees, or elects to be taxed as a corporation (including an S-corporation). Even single-member LLCs without employees often obtain an EIN to open a business bank account or for other business purposes. The EIN is free and can be obtained directly from the IRS website.
Maintaining Good Standing in Kansas
- Maintaining a Registered Agent: As discussed, continuously having a valid registered agent and registered office in Kansas is essential.
- Updating Business Information: Promptly filing any necessary amendments with the Secretary of State for changes to your LLC's name, principal office, or other critical details.
- Compliance with Other State Agencies: While not directly impacting good standing with the Secretary of State, compliance with the Kansas Department of Revenue (for taxes) and other regulatory bodies is vital for overall legal operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kansas LLC annual report?
The Kansas LLC annual report is a mandatory filing with the Kansas Secretary of State to keep your LLC's registration current. It updates information such as the registered agent, principal office address, and names of managers or members.
When is the Kansas LLC annual report due?
The Kansas LLC annual report is due on the 15th day of the 4th month following the close of your LLC's tax period. For most LLCs operating on a calendar year, this means April 15th.
How much does the Kansas LLC annual report cost?
The filing fee for the Kansas LLC annual report is $50 if filed online, or $55 if filed by paper. These fees are current for 2026.
How do I file the Kansas LLC annual report?
You can file the Kansas LLC annual report online through the Kansas Secretary of State's website using the Business Entity Filing portal, or by mail using a paper form. Online filing is generally recommended for speed and lower cost.
What happens if I don't file my Kansas LLC annual report?
Failure to file the Kansas LLC annual report by the due date can result in the forfeiture of your LLC's authority to transact business in Kansas. This means your LLC loses its good standing and legal protections, and may eventually be administratively dissolved.
Related
- what is an llc
- How to form an LLC in Kansas
- Kansas registered agent requirements
- LLC annual report requirements by state (cluster hub)
- How to get an EIN
- What is a registered agent?
- How to dissolve an LLC
Sources
- Kansas Secretary of State - Business Entity Filing (online filing portal).
- Kansas Secretary of State - Business Forms (paper annual report forms).
- Kansas Secretary of State - LLC Annual Report Instructions (PDF) (due date, fees, information required).
- Kansas Secretary of State - Business Entity FAQs (general questions on filing, good standing).
- Kansas Secretary of State - Registered Agent Information (requirements for registered agents).
- Kansas Secretary of State - Business Entity Search (check good standing).
- Kansas Department of Revenue - Business Tax Types (overview of state business taxes).
- Kansas Department of Revenue - Form K-200, Kansas Business Tax Application (PDF) (sales tax registration).
- Kansas Department of Revenue - Form K-120, Kansas Corporation Income Tax Booklet (PDF) (for C-corps).
- Kansas Department of Revenue - Form K-120S, Kansas S Corporation Income Tax Booklet (PDF) (for S-corps).
- Kansas Department of Revenue - Form K-120K, Kansas Partnership Income Tax Booklet (PDF) (for partnerships/multi-member LLCs).
- Kansas Department of Revenue - Form K-120ES, Estimated Tax for Corporations (PDF).
- IRS - Limited Liability Company (LLC) (federal tax treatment).
- IRS - Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) (how to obtain an EIN).
LegalGlass provides general information for educational purposes and is not a law firm or a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney or tax professional. Laws, fees, and thresholds change; verify current requirements with the Kansas Secretary of State and Kansas Department of Revenue before acting.