Kentucky
LLC Formation Costs & Requirements
Filing Fee
$40
↓67% below avg
Annual Fee
$15
↓79% below avg
Franchise Tax
None
1st Year Total
$55
↓75% below avg
Processing Time
5-7 business days
5-Year Cost Projection
Total over 5 years
$115
Average per year
$23
Best LLC Services for Kentucky
Save time and avoid mistakes with professional LLC formation services. All include state fee and handle the paperwork for you.
ZenBusiness
Entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and compliance tools at an affordable price
ZenBusiness stands out as our top pick for LLC formation services thanks to its unbeatable combination of value, features, and support. With formation starting at $0 plus state fees, you can rest easy with their worry-free compliance service, award-winning customer support, and 100% accuracy guarantee. The Pro and Premium packages add even more value with 1-day processing, an employer ID number, operating agreement, and services to get your business online like domain name registration, AI business website builder, and more.
Pros:
- ✓ Starter package is $0 plus state fees
- ✓ Registered agent and compliance services
- ✓ Free worry-free compliance for 1 year
- ✓ Fast 1-day processing time available
- ✓ 100% accuracy guarantee
- ✓ Award-winning customer support
Cons:
- ✗ Some features require upgraded plans
- ✗ More expensive Registered Agent service
Bizee
Budget-conscious startups needing fast formation
Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers lightning-fast LLC formation with their $0 package. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who need to form their LLC quickly and affordably. With same-day processing in many states and a year of free registered agent service, Bizee provides exceptional value for basic LLC formation needs.
Pros:
- ✓ $0 basic formation package
- ✓ Same-day processing available
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Compliance alerts included
- ✓ Dashboard for document management
- ✓ Free business tools and templates
Cons:
- ✗ Operating agreement not included in basic package
- ✗ Limited customer support hours
Tailor Brands
Creative businesses wanting formation plus branding
Tailor Brands combines LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Their unique approach includes AI-powered logo design, website creation, and marketing materials. Perfect for creative entrepreneurs who want to establish their brand identity alongside their legal structure.
Pros:
- ✓ Includes logo design and branding
- ✓ Website builder included
- ✓ Business card designs
- ✓ Mobile app available
- ✓ Operating agreement included
- ✓ EIN service included
Cons:
- ✗ No rush processing available
- ✗ Monthly subscription required
- ✗ Customer service via chat/email only
Inc Authority
Budget-conscious entrepreneurs comfortable with DIY approach
Inc Authority offers genuinely free LLC formation with free registered agent service for the first year. While their basic package is unbeatable for price, be prepared for upselling attempts and note that the registered agent service renews at $119/year. They're perfect for entrepreneurs who want the absolute lowest cost and don't mind a more hands-off approach.
Pros:
- ✓ Truly free basic formation
- ✓ Free registered agent for first year
- ✓ Free tax planning consultation
- ✓ No hidden fees on basic package
- ✓ Phone and chat support available
- ✓ Basic compliance tools included
Cons:
- ✗ Aggressive upselling tactics
- ✗ Processing can be slow (7-10 days)
- ✗ Registered agent renews at $119/year
LegalZoom
Businesses that need ongoing legal support and established credibility
LegalZoom brings decades of experience and attorney-backed support to LLC formation. While some add-ons are pricey, their comprehensive legal services, extensive forms library, and ability to connect with attorneys make them ideal for businesses with complex legal needs or those who value the security of working with an established industry leader.
Pros:
- ✓ Attorney support available
- ✓ Comprehensive legal forms library
- ✓ Rush processing available (1 day +$99)
- ✓ Phone and chat support
- ✓ 30+ years in business
- ✓ Peace of mind guarantee
Cons:
- ✗ Registered agent costs $249/year
- ✗ Operating agreement costs extra (+$99)
- ✗ EIN service expensive (+$159)
Rocket Lawyer
Businesses needing ongoing legal support beyond formation
Rocket Lawyer offers comprehensive legal services beyond just LLC formation. Their platform provides access to attorneys, unlimited legal documents with membership, and ongoing legal support. While the formation takes 5-7 days, they're ideal for businesses that anticipate needing regular legal assistance.
Pros:
- ✓ Full legal services platform
- ✓ Operating agreement included
- ✓ Attorney consultations available
- ✓ Mobile app for on-the-go access
- ✓ Document library with membership
- ✓ Phone and chat support
Cons:
- ✗ No rush processing available
- ✗ Registered agent costs $149/year
- ✗ EIN service costs extra (+$99)
How Kentucky Compares to Other States
See how Kentucky's LLC costs and requirements stack up against other popular states.
| State | Filing Fee | Annual Fee | Franchise Tax | Total 1st Year | Processing | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona AZ | $50 | FREE | — | $50 | ✓ 5-10 business days | |
| Missouri MO | $50 | FREE | — | $50 | ✓ 5-7 business days | |
| New Mexico NM | $50 | FREE | — | $50 | ⏱ 7-10 business days | |
| Mississippi MS | $50 | FREE | — | $50 | ✓ 5-7 business days | |
| Kentucky KY | $40 | $15 | — | $55 | ✓ 5-7 business days | |
| Colorado CO | $50 | $10 | — | $60 | ⚡ 1-2 business days | |
| Hawaii HI | $50 | $15 | — | $65 | ✓ 3-5 business days | |
| Utah UT | $54 | $18 | — | $72 | ⚡ 2-3 business days | |
| Michigan MI | $50 | $25 | — | $75 | ⏱ 7-10 business days | |
| Montana MT | $70 | $20 | — | $90 | ✓ 5-10 business days |
Kentucky LLC Formation FAQ
Common questions about forming an LLC in Kentucky.
How much does it cost to start an LLC in Kentucky?
The state filing fee in Kentucky is $40. There's also an annual fee of $15. Using a formation service typically adds $0-$300 to these costs but includes professional handling and compliance support.
How long does LLC formation take in Kentucky?
Standard processing time in Kentucky is 5-7 business days. Many formation services offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can reduce this to 1-3 business days in most cases.
Do I need a registered agent in Kentucky?
Yes, all LLCs in Kentucky must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state. You can serve as your own registered agent, but most business owners prefer using a professional service for privacy and reliability.
What are the ongoing requirements for an LLC in Kentucky?
You'll need to pay an annual fee of $15 to maintain your LLC. Additionally, you should maintain proper records, file tax returns, and keep your registered agent information current.
Ready to Start Your Kentucky LLC?
Choose a professional formation service or file directly with the state. Either way, you'll have your LLC formed in 5-7 business days.