Filing A Kansas Corporation
When determining which corporate structure to file under, new business owners would be wise to look into the benefits of the entity and the filing process. A Kansas Corporation offers tax benefits and the ability to gain credibility with customers. However, the process is a bit extensive, requiring diligence when filing.
Steps When Filing
Choose A Name
The first thing that those looking for form a business must do is choose a name for their new entity. The state of Kansas requires the name to include an indicator in the name, such as “Corporation,” “Incorporation,” “Limited,” “Company,” or an abbreviation of such terms, such as “Inc.” Also, the state also mandates that each entity have a unique name. This means that no two organizations can share a name. To prevent themselves from choosing a name that is already in use, owners should utilize the DoMyLLC Name Availability Check Page.
Choose An Agent For Service Of Process
After choosing a name, owners will then need to hire a registered agent. The registered agent is responsible for accepting legal correspondence on behalf of the company. Many new owners don’t realize how critical the registered agent position is. New owners will want to consider hiring a professional third-party company, such as DoMyLLC, to serve in the registered agent position.
File Articles Of Incorporation & Pay Filing Fees
Once owners have secured a name and registered agent, they can begin filing the Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State’s office. Owners can submit this form online with a filing fee of $85, mail it for $90, or fax it for $110. Below is an overview of the information needed on this form:
- The name of the company
- Name and address of the registered agent
- Business’ mailing address
- Tax closing month
- Nature of the corporation’s business of purpose
- Total number of shares authorized to issue
- Name and mailing address of each incorporator
- Name and mailing address of each member of the board of directors
- Duration of corporation
- Effective date
- Signatures of incorporators
File Initial Report
The state of Kansas does not require an initial filing. But, owners should keep Initial Report if they wish to expand in the future.
Create Corporate Bylaws, Appoint Directors And Hold Meetings
After filing the Articles of Incorporation, members of the Kansas Corporation will need to hold an initial corporate meeting. In attendance at this meeting should be the directors who were listed on Articles of Incorporation. These directors will serve in this capacity on the board until the next annual meeting of shareholders, where directors are up for re-election.
Once in place, the board can elect officers, define the roles of the organization’s members, and draft corporate bylaws. Corporate bylaws are a private, internal operating manual. However, they are critical to corporate compliance, as a Corporation cannot exist or conduct business until the board has adopted bylaws. Additionally, many banks and insurers require proof of bylaws to begin working with a Corporation.
Issue Stock
While at the initial corporate meeting, directors should also issue stock and begin to maintain the stock ledger. The board must approve any stock issuance, and are responsible for doing so throughout the life cycle of the Corporation. The amount of stock that the Corporation can issue is defined in the Articles of Incorporation. The ledger is critical, as it protects the corporate veil and provides
Obtain Employer Identification Number
The Kansas Corporation will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number from the IRS so that they can open a business banking account, pay taxes, and hire employees.
File Kansas Required Annual Reports
The Corporation will also need to file an Annual Report each year. The report is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after the close of your fiscal year. If your fiscal year ends on December 31, as it does for most companies, the filing deadline is April 15. The form costs $50 to file online or $55 to submit by mail. Learn more at our Kansas Annual Report page.
Ongoing Maintenance
Companies will need to file state and federal taxes each year. They’ll also need to renew all licenses and permits.
How DoMyLLC Can Assist With Streamlining The Process
At DoMyLLC, we can help you fulfill your administrative requirements to the state of Kansas. Our services include:
- Name availability check
- Prepare Articles of Incorporation
- File Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of Kansas’s office
- Provide sample bylaws, meeting notices and minutes for meetings
- Dedicated account manager
- Unlimited customer support
We streamline the process, offering comprehensive solutions to businesses across the state. Contact us today to learn more!