Kentucky Certificate of Good Standing

A Kentucky certificate of good standing confirms that a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation was founded lawfully and is being properly maintained.

We will explore the qualifications for good standing and how to get a certificate of good standing in Kentucky in our Certificate of Good Standing Kentucky guide.

How Do I Obtain a Kentucky Certificate of Good Standing?

Request your certificate of good standing, also known as a certificate of existence in Kentucky, from the Secretary of State.

There are two major processes involved in obtaining your certificate of good standing:

1. Maintain your LLC’s compliance

2. Request a certificate of good standing.

What exactly is a good standing certificate? A certificate of good standing is a state document that confirms your company was created lawfully and has been properly maintained.

Step 1: Ensure that your Kentucky business is in compliance.

To be eligible for a Kentucky certificate of existence, your company must meet the following state compliance requirements:
Permits and Licenses

To run a company in Kentucky, you must adhere to federal, state, and local licensing requirements. Regulations such as health permits and construction permits are examples of this.

The Kentucky OneStop Business Portal website has further information on state licensing requirements.
State levies

Depending on your company activity, you may be required to register for several types of Kentucky state tax. Sales tax, withholding tax, and Unemployment Insurance (UI) tax are all examples of this.
Reports on a Year

Every Kentucky LLC and company is required to submit an annual report. This report confirms the company’s fundamental facts, such as its primary office location and registered agent.

Annual reports are due to the Secretary of State by June 30 each year. This may be accomplished in one of three ways:

Submit your application online.
Print the online form to mail or hand deliver.
Return the postcard sent by the Secretary of State earlier this year.

The price for filing is $15.

Step 2: Obtain a Kentucky Certificate of Good Standing.

Once your company is in good standing with the state, you may apply to the Secretary of State for a Kentucky certificate of existence. This can be done via email, mail, or fax.

Is a Certificate of Good Standing Required in Kentucky?

While you don’t always require a certificate of existence to operate a company in Kentucky, there are a few situations when you may. These are some examples:

Purchasing commercial insurance

Applying for commercial loans

Establishing a business checking account

Getting a business license in another state