5 Best Kentucky LLC Formation Services 2023 List (Updated)

When you decide to start an LLC in Kentucky, you must thoroughly research and do your homework. Starting an LLC is relatively easy; with professional help, opening an LLC in Kentucky becomes even smoother. You will find many such companies when choosing the best LLC formation service in Kentucky. Surprisingly, every other company will claim to be the best. But who to trust? How do you know who is the best for your business?

LLCBuddy Editors have eased the task for you. We scanned the market and came up with a list of the best LLC formation services in Kentucky. You can compare their services, prices, and other information here before choosing the right one!

If you do not like reading a long article, you can watch the above video for the complete list of best LLC Kentucky LLC formation services. It is mandatory to choose the best LLC formation service in Kentucky, especially when you want to get rid of any hassle while forming your Kentucky LLC. You may start it on your own, but it will not be a wise decision, as missing out any step or even a small thing can lead to the cancellation of the process.

Best LLC Service in Kentucky

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

Best LLC Formation Services in Kentucky
How to Form an LLC in Kentucky
How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Kentucky
FAQs

Best LLC Formation Services in Kentucky

Here is the list of best LLC services available in Kentucky. The best thing about these services is starting your LLC for free. Some of the following services are offering LLC formation in Kentucky at $0. Other than the state fees and charges, you do not have to pay any charges to the service provider. You will get the basic formation package for free. Now, let’s check out the list of best LLC formation service providers in Kentucky-

LLC Service	Our Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 TOP PICK	5/5 $0 + State Fees	Free LLC formation Access to Legal Support Trustworthy and established reputation	Learn More
	4/5 $299 + State Fees	Flat pricing for all services Basic business filing services A+ BBB Accredited	Learn More

Below is the list of best LLC formation services in Kentucky we picked for you.

LLCBuddy Editorial Team selects these companies through thorough research and market study. It is recommended that you must cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your business.

1. LegalZoom

LegalZoom is one of the service providers in Kentucky that offers free LLC formation services. If you want to avoid spending money to form your LLC, then LegalZoom is for you. It offers various formation packages that include all types of LLC services. Aside from LLC formation, LegalZoom offers C and S corp formation. With over thousands of customers, the company offers basic LLC formation services at $0.

LegalZoom Plans

Basic Package- $0 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)
Pro Package – $249 + State Filing Fees (Tax deductible may be applicable)
Premium Package – $279 + State Filing Fees (Tax deduction may be applicable)

Apart from these packages, LegalZoom offers a bunch of add-on services as well. Add-on services include the following-

Registered Agent – $299 per year. Available as an add-on and not included in any packages
Trademark registration: Assisting with the US trademark application process
Copyright registration: Guidance on registering copyrights for creative works
Patent services: Support in obtaining utility, design, and plant patents
Estate planning: Offering personalized wills, trusts, and power of attorney documents
Legal advice: Access to a network of lawyers for consultations and legal guidance
Expedited Filing: With an additional $99, you can speed up your filing process.

LegalZoom Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get LegalZoom	Why You Shouldn’t Get LegalZoom
Free LLC formation	Expensive add-ons, such as Registered Agent
Trustworthy and established reputation	Higher pricing compared to some competitors
Quick turnaround time	Less number of add-on options
Access to legal professionals	Some additional fees not included in plan prices
Customer support available through phone or chat	Mixed customer reviews

LegalZoom Overview

LegalZoom is one of the oldest companies in USA. This company is a service provider offering LLC formation at $0. It offers three broad packages, Basic, Pro, and Premium. The Basic package costs $0. Though you must pay the Kentucky filing fee while filing the Articles of Organization with the Kentucky Secretary of State. The filing fee depends on which method, mail, online, or any other method you choose.

LegalZoom offers vast add-ones like others. Hence, the chances of getting diverse services are comparatively high. The best part about the company is there is an access to legal documents and legal consultation. The registered agent service is a bit expensive. If you want to hire Registered Agent from LegalZoom, you must purchase that service separately, it does not come with any formation plans.

Form LLC in Kentucky with LegalZoom

2. BetterLegal

BetterLegal is a comparatively new company than other competitors. But this company has successfully grabbed a large portion of the market in the United States. Serving in 51 states, BetterLegal has been in business since 2016. Unlike other experienced companies, it does not have a list of packages and plans for LLC formation.

BetterLegal Plans

BetterLegal offers one single plan at a flat $299 + state filing fees. It has a list of add-on services as well. BetterLegal is an online service that started off with a very small team. However, even after being in the business for so long, they didn’t increase their team size much. They have transparent pricing, and no hidden charge exists for any services they provide.

BetterLegal offers a list of add-on services. Following are the additional services they offer-

Registered Agent service – $10/month or $90/year
State Annual compliance services – $10/month or $90/year
Permit & License Search Service – $125
Amendment & document research – Free with the core formation service package

BetterLegal Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get BetterLegal	Why You Shouldn’t Get BetterLegal
No refund; all sales are final	The basic package does not include registered agent service
Quick Turnaround time	Additional charge for EIN
A+ BBB Accredited	The basic package does not include a registered agent service
Single plan for all incorporation

BetterLegal Overview

Even though the company is called BetterLegal, no attorneys or legal services are available. The company offers a single plan for all types of business formation. Hence, if you are planning to form a corporation, you can pay $299 + incorporation fee ($40 for filing online and by mail in Kentucky). It offers comparatively better turnaround time at a reasonable price than other companies. You can file your LLC within 10 minutes with BetterLegal.

It offers a resource center for new entrepreneurs. They provide guidance to make things easier when it comes to filing your business. Their small team sometimes fails to cater to their customers on time. Reaching out to their customer support team is very difficult. Another disadvantage is it does not have a refund policy. All sales with BetterLegal are final, and at any stage, upon cancelation, no refund is made. However, basic LLC formation and registered agent services are much cheaper in BetterLegal than in other close competitors.

Form LLC in Kentucky with BetterLegal

3. TailorBrands

Do you want to create a brand for your business in Kentucky? Here is the LLC formation service provider, TailorBrands, for you. The company was established in 2015 in New York, and since then, it has offered several incredible services to set up your business. TailorBrands has a single LLC formation plan that starts at $49 a year. You can choose different other add-on services at an additional cost.

TailorBrands Services

TailorBrands offer a single plan for forming an LLC at $49. There are some basic services that TailorBrands offer, including starting an LLC, filing it, Kentucky name availability search, priority support, and so on. You can use their add-on services as and when required. Add-ons are-

Registered Agent Service – $199/year
Employment ID Number (EIN) – $99 (one-time pay)
Annual Compliances – $299/year
Operating Agreement – $29
Expedited Filing – $49
Business bank account – Free

TailorBrands Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get TailorBrands	Why You Shouldn’t Get TailorBrands
Low-cost LLC formation	Not BBB Accredited
Free business bank accounts	No business domain packages
Hassle-free LLC formation	Additional charges to obtain EIN
Additional services like logo, website, domain

TailorBrands Overview

TailorBrands does not have vast LLC formation packages. Instead, it has a single package that includes the formation of LLCs. The name availability search is unlimited, and you don’t have to pay any additional fees. The state filing fee of $40 must be paid apart from the charges you pay for add-ons.

TailorBrands offers other business services such as logo making, domain, website, business bank account, merchandise, and other business services. As a small or start-up business, you must go for TailorBrands.

Form LLC in Kentucky with TailorBrands

4. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a Texas-based company that provides services from formation to annual compliance to an LLC. It offers three plans, Starter, Pro, and Premium. The Starter plan starts from $0. That means you can form your LLC for free in Kentucky, though you must pay the state filing fee of $40 to the Kentucky Secretary of State. But, the company charges nothing to form your business in the state.

ZenBusiness Plans

Starter Plan at $0 + state filing fee
Pro Plan at $199/year + state filing fee
Premium Plan at $299/year + state filing fee

ZenBusiness Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get ZenBusiness	Why You Should Not Get ZenBusiness
100% accuracy rate	Does not form Kentucky nonprofit
Free LLC formation in Kentucky	Additional cost for EIN
User friendly
Standalone Registered Agent services

ZenBusiness Overview

ZenBusiness is one of those top-rated companies that provide business formation in Kentucky at a minimum cost (currently at $0). There is no charge to be paid to the company for forming your LLC in Kentucky. The state filing fee and other necessary fees must be paid, including the registered agent fee.

ZenBusiness offers three plans, among which the Pro plan is recommended. The Pro plan has everything you need to start an LLC in Kentucky. Obtaining EIN, operating agreement drafting, name search, and all other services are available with the rush filing feature.

Form LLC in Kentucky with ZenBusiness

5. Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent is a family-owned business based in Spoken, Washington state. The company offers LLC formation, registered agent service, annual compliances, and other business-related services in all 50 states, including Kentucky. It offers LLC formation at $ 39+ state fees and registered agent service at $125 yearly.

Northwest Plans

Northwest does not have conventional packages. It offers Core, Business maintenance, and business development services. Under these categories, various services are available at a flat rate. Some of the services offered by Northwest in Kentucky are listed below-

LLC formation in Kentucky at $39 + state filing fee
Registered Agent at $125 yearly
Annual report filing at $100 + state filing fee
Obtaining EIN at $50
Northwest offers National Agent Service. If you operate your LLC Registered Agent in 5 or more states, you can pay $100 + state fees (if applicable) to get a single agent for all states.

Northwest Registered Agent Pros and Cons

Why You Must Get Northwest	Why You Should Not Get Northwest
DIY Packages for your LLC in Kentucky	Not BBB accredited
No plans, flat rate for all services	Additional charges to obtain EIN in Kentucky
Purchase only the service you need to form Kentucky LLC.	The operating agreement draft is not included in the Core services
Northwest offers standalone Registered Agent service in Kentucky

Northwest Registered Agent Overview

Northwest is one of those service providers that offer DIY packages. Northwest is not for you if you want a wholesome formation package in Kentucky. It does not have conventional LLC formation packages. It is simply like a departmental store for you. You don’t need to buy everything, but the only thing you need.

Northwest has in-house corporate guides to guide you through the formation process. It offers LLC formation at $39 plus the state filing fee ($40). If you have already formed your LLC in Kentucky and are willing to appoint Registered Agent only, then Northwest can provide a standalone registered agent service at $125 per year.

Northwest offers single flat rates for all services in Kentucky and other states. The best part about the company is it does not outsource any of its services. Northwest offers corporate guides to help you through the steps of LLC formation.

Form LLC in Kentucky with Northwest Registered Agent

How to Form an LLC in Kentucky

Kentucky, popularly known as The Bluegrass State, is a business-friendly state with a population of 4,555,777. The Nominal Gross Domestic Product (in millions) of Kentucky is $262,439 according to a 2022 study, which has been said to be increased over the past year. Hence, starting your business in Kentucky will always be a good option. If you choose the state capital, Frankfort, to start your LLC, you might get more tax and other benefits.

To form an LLC in Kentucky, you need to follow some basic steps, including getting an LLC name, appointing your Kentucky Registered Agent, filing the Kentucky Articles of Organization, creating Kentucky LLC operating agreement, and finally getting an EIN for filing required taxes.

You can do that on your own. However, it is always recommended to get a professional person on board to guide you through. These steps are crucial and sensitive. You must complete everything to avoid canceling your formation process. Hence, having a professional LLC formation service for your LLC is better.

How to Choose the Best LLC Formation Service in Kentucky

It is important to choose the best service for your business carefully. Before you select the best one, make sure you thoroughly research on following points-

Reputation: Look for a company with a good reputation. Check reviews and ratings from previous clients to see how they feel about the services offered.
Experience: Choose a company with years of LLC formation experience. This ensures that they have knowledge of the process and can provide quality services.
Cost: Compare prices between different companies. Choose a company that offers affordable pricing for the services you need.
Customer Service: Ensure that the company has good customer service. They should be responsive, helpful, and willing to answer any questions.
Services Offered: Look for a company that offers a range of services, including entity formation, registered agent services, and ongoing compliance support to ensure your LLC remains in good standing.
Ease of Use: Choose a company with a user-friendly website and easy-to-use online platform. This makes the process of forming an LLC simple and straightforward.
Guarantees: Check if the company offers a satisfaction guarantee or a refund policy. This gives you peace of mind that you are getting the best possible service.

FAQs

What is an LLC?

LLC stands for Limited Liability Company, which is a legal business structure that provides protection to its owners’ personal assets.

Why should I form an LLC in Kentucky?

Kentucky offers a business-friendly climate, with low taxes and few government regulations. Plus, an LLC in Kentucky offers limited liability protection, easy management, and flexibility over how it’s taxed.

How much does it cost to form an LLC in Kentucky?

The cost to form an LLC in Kentucky is $50. Additionally, you may need to register for an EIN with the IRS, which is free.

Can a non-resident form an LLC in Kentucky?

Yes, even non-residents can form an LLC in Kentucky. However, they will need to appoint a registered agent with a Kentucky address.

What is a registered agent?

A registered agent is a person or organization that receives official legal notices on behalf of a business. This includes service of process, tax notices, and other correspondence from government agencies.

Do I need a lawyer to form an LLC in Kentucky?

No, you do not need a lawyer to form a Kentucky LLC. However, if you have complex legal issues, it may be advisable to seek legal counsel.

How long does it take to form an LLC in Kentucky?

It usually takes around 1-2 business days to form an LLC in Kentucky.

Can I change the name of my Kentucky LLC after formation?

Yes, you can change the name of your Kentucky LLC after formation by filing articles of amendment.

Can I form a Kentucky LLC with just one member?

Yes, you can form a Kentucky LLC with just one member. This is called a single-member LLC.

Can I use an online LLC formation service to form a Kentucky LLC?

Yes, you can use an online LLC formation service to form a Kentucky LLC. These services can make the process faster and more convenient.

What is a Kentucky LLC filing fee?

The Kentucky LLC filing fee is $50.

Does Kentucky require an operating agreement for an LLC?

No, Kentucky does not require an operating agreement for an LLC. However, it’s highly recommended for single-member LLCs and essential for multi-member LLCs.

Do I need to file an annual report for my Kentucky LLC?

Yes, Kentucky requires LLCs to file an annual report every year. The fee is $15.

Are there any residency or citizenship requirements to form a Kentucky LLC?

No, there are no residency or citizenship requirements to form a Kentucky LLC.

Can I file the Articles of Organization for a Kentucky LLC myself?

Yes, you can file the Articles of Organization for a Kentucky LLC yourself by downloading the form from the Kentucky Secretary of State website.

Can I form a Kentucky LLC as a foreign entity?

Yes, foreign entities can form a Kentucky LLC by filing a certificate of authority with the Kentucky Secretary of State.

Can I change the registered agent for my Kentucky LLC?

Yes, you can change the registered agent for your Kentucky LLC at any time by filing a Statement of Change of Registered Agent/Office.

What are the tax implications of forming a Kentucky LLC?

The tax implications of forming a Kentucky LLC depend on how you choose to have it taxed. By default, Kentucky LLCs are pass-through entities that are taxed at the individual level.

Are there any residency or citizenship requirements for Kentucky LLC members?

No, there are no residency or citizenship requirements for Kentucky LLC members.

Can a foreign entity be a member of a Kentucky LLC?

Yes, a foreign entity can be a member of a Kentucky LLC.

Do I need a business license to operate a Kentucky LLC?

Depending on the nature of your business, you may need a business license to operate a Kentucky LLC. The requirements vary by municipality.

Are there any reporting requirements for a Kentucky LLC?

Yes, a Kentucky LLC must file an annual report each year with the Secretary of State’s office.

Can I form a series LLC in Kentucky?

Yes, Kentucky allows the formation of series LLCs, which are treated as separate legal entities for liability and assets purposes.

How do I dissolve a Kentucky LLC?

To dissolve a Kentucky LLC, you must file articles of dissolution with the Kentucky Secretary of State.

Can I have a Kentucky LLC for my rental property?

Yes, you can have a Kentucky LLC for owning and operating rental properties to protect your personal assets from liability.

How do I change the name of my Kentucky LLC?

To change the name of your Kentucky LLC, you must file articles of amendment with the Kentucky Secretary of State.

Can I form a Kentucky LLC for my non-profit organization?

No, non-profits must apply as a 501c3, and those applying for this status go through the Internal Revenue Services ((IRS)) application process rather than the Kentucky Secretary of State.

Can I form a Kentucky LLC for professional services?

Yes, Kentucky allows professionals to form LLCs as well. However, some professions will also require obtaining a license such as ones requiring a bar exam to be practiced as an attorney.

What is an LLC in Kentucky?

An LLC in Kentucky is a type of business entity recognized by the state which provides personal asset protection to its owners, known as members.

Can a non-Kentucky resident form an LLC in Kentucky?

Yes, non-Kentucky residents can form an LLC in Kentucky.

What information is required to form an LLC in Kentucky?

The information required to form an LLC in Kentucky includes the business name, members’ names, address, and purpose.

What is the name availability search in Kentucky for LLC?

A name availability search in Kentucky for an LLC is a search to see if a desired business name is available to register.

How do I name my LLC in Kentucky?

To name an LLC in Kentucky, the name must end with “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company.” The name must not be the same as or very similar to another Kentucky entity name.

Can I use a PO Box for my LLC’s address in Kentucky?

No, you cannot use a PO Box for your LLC’s address in Kentucky. You must supply a physical street address.

Can I act as my own registered agent in Kentucky for my LLC?

Yes, you can act as your own registered agent in Kentucky for your LLC.

What is a registered agent in Kentucky?

A registered agent in Kentucky is the person or entity responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of a business entity, including an LLC.

Can I change the name of my Kentucky LLC after forming it?

Yes, you can change the name of your Kentucky LLC after forming it by filing articles of amendment with the Secretary of State.

How do I dissolve an LLC in Kentucky?

To dissolve an LLC in Kentucky, you must file articles of dissolution with the Secretary of State.

Can I sue on behalf of my Kentucky LLC?

No, only authorized representatives or members can sue on behalf of a Kentucky LLC.

Do I need to obtain any permits or licenses to operate my Kentucky LLC?

It depends on the type of business conducted. Some LLCs in Kentucky require permits or licenses, while others do not.

How many members are required to form an LLC in Kentucky?

One or more members are required to form an LLC in Kentucky.

What is the difference between a manager-managed and member-managed LLC in Kentucky?

In a member-managed LLC in Kentucky, all members have equal say in managing the business. In a manager-managed LLC, only designated managers are responsible for management decisions.

Can an LLC member in Kentucky manage the business from out of state?

Yes, an LLC member in Kentucky can manage the business from out of state, as long as they have an office and registered agent located in Kentucky.

Does Kentucky recognize Series LLCs?

No, Kentucky does not recognize Series LLCs.

Are foreign LLCs required to register in Kentucky to do business there?

Yes, foreign LLCs are required to register in Kentucky to do business there.

How do I change the information filed with the Secretary of State for my Kentucky LLC?

To change the information filed with the Secretary of State for your Kentucky LLC, you must file articles of amendment.

What is the franchise tax in Kentucky for LLCs?

The franchise tax in Kentucky for LLCs is $175, due annually.

Can I convert my Kentucky LLC to another entity type, such as a corporation?

Yes, you can convert your Kentucky LLC to another entity type, such as a corporation, by filing articles of conversion with the Secretary of State.

Does Kentucky tax LLCs?

No, Kentucky does not tax LLCs at the entity level.

What is the Personal Service Corporation for individual LLC owners in Kentucky?

Personal Service Corporations were previously available for certain LLC owners in Kentucky who provided personal services, but this is no longer available.

Can an LLC in Kentucky change its tax status?

Yes, an LLC in Kentucky can change its tax status by electing to be taxed as an S-corporation or C-corporation with the IRS.

What is the Annual Report for Kentucky LLCs?

The Annual Report is a report that represents the current information on a Kentucky LLC that is submitted annually to the Secretary of State.

Can a Kentucky LLC elect to be treated as an S-corp for tax purposes?

Yes, you can elect to have your Kentucky LLC be treated as an S-corp for tax purposes by filing Form 2553 with the IRS.

Is it necessary to appoint a board of directors for a Kentucky LLC?

No, it is not necessary to appoint a board of directors for a Kentucky LLC.

Conclusion

Having a professional service to form your LLC in Kentucky is much better than doing it yourself. It is hassle-free, and there is no chance of making mistakes while filing your business. This article lists the best LLC formation services in Kentucky. Before you select one, make sure you compare the price, services, and features properly.