Start a Business in Kansas

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This guide on starting your business in Kansas provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.

how to start a business

Step-By-Step Startup

Below is an overview of the paperwork, cost, and time to form each of the most popular business structures. Simply click on the link for your desired structure to view detailed step-by-step instructions.

  • If you have not decided whether you want to form an LLC, corporation, or other business structure, click here.
  • If wish to form your business in a different state than Kansas, click here.
Structure Paperwork Cost Time

Kansas Limited Liability Company

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  • Form DL: Kansas Limited Liability Company Articles of Organization
  • Operating Agreement
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form CR-16: Kansas Business Tax Application
  • Formation: $165 + optional $20 fax fee
  • Kansas business tax application: The state fee varies based on the tax accounts / licenses required.
  • Formation: Immediately online. ~2-3 business days by paper.

Kansas Corporation

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  • Form CF: Kansas For-Profit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • Form 2553: S-Corp Election, if desired
  • Form CR-16: Kansas Business Tax Application
  • Incorporation: $90 + optional $20 fax fee
  • Incorporation: Immediately online. ~2-3 business days by paper.

Kansas Nonprofit

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  • Form CN: Not-For-Profit Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form CR-16: Kansas Business Tax Application
  • Kansas Sales Tax Exemption Certificate
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form SC: Kansas Registration Statement for Solicitations
  • Incorporation: $20 + optional $20 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Kansas business tax registration: varies based on tax accounts/licenses
  • Kansas Charitable Registration: $35
  • Incorporation: Immediately online. ~4 business days by paper. ~1 business day by paper with $20 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Kansas

  1. Filing your formation documents online with the Secretary of State is the best method and you'll get the results immediately.
  2. Remember to include a corporate designator. This is required in Kansas.
  3. Kansas uses the term "resident agent" to refer to what other states call a "registered agent". This is the individual or company designated to sign for notice of lawsuit and other government or official documents for the business.
  4. If your business is required to pay Kansas state taxes, then it must register by filing Form CR-16.
  5. There is no reminder notice for the annual report. It is due four months and 15 days after the close of your fiscal year (six months and 15 days for a nonprofit). If you hire a commercial resident agent (such as us), we'll remind you.
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