Kansas Secretary of State

The Kansas Secretary of State is one of the four important state offices. It is authorized by the Kansas Constitution. Moreover, the Secretary of the State is elected for four years. The term starts on the second Monday of January.  

In addition, about 1,000 laws determine the responsibilities of the Office. The list includes but is not limited to administering elections, collecting information about companies in Kansas (KS), and issuing official documentation regarding the state. Due to the letter, the Secretary of State maintains thousands of different types of documents.

How Do You Check if a Business is Registered in Kansas?

Kansas Secretary of State business search is a common practice. What is more, to find out information regarding corporations, you should check the Business Entity Database website. Eventually, the search will show a maximum of 400 results. 

There are several options when it comes to searching types. Those are searches by:  

• Business entity name

• Keyword

• Entity ID number

• Name of the resident’s agent; keyword

• Full name of the resident’s agent

Note: make sure to fill out the necessary information properly to get expected and precise data.  

How Do I Lookup a Name For My Corporation?

The process of choosing a name for your company is important. Some names may already be reserved. So, you cannot choose those anymore. 

It is possible to check if the desired title is available or not. To do so, you should visit the official website of the Secretary of State. Afterward, you may simply enter the name in the space that says “Enter Business Name.” 

One can learn more about the name availability guidelines by checking the webpage. 

How Do I Reserve a Name For My Business?

The Secretary of State of Kansas offers the service of name registration. You can reserve a business name online.

If the title is available, you can reserve it for 120 days. Additionally, the reservation fee is $30. Note that the fee is non-refundable. Also, it is important to mention that name reservation is not a mandatory procedure. 

Do I Have to Reserve a Name Before Filing Formation Documents/Applications for Authority?

The short answer is no. Specifically, it applies only to those who want to file articles of formation as a limited entry or a corporation.

Can Formation Documents for Domestic Entities be Filed Online?

Yes. Specifically, you can file the formation documents online for specific entity types. Those are:

• Not-for-profit corporations

• For-profit corporations

• Limited partnership

• Limited liability corporations

You can also access online filings.

Do I Need to Complete an Application for Authority to do Business in KS?

Please, check K.S.A. 17-7932 to find out if you are eligible to open a company in KS. 

How Do I Get a DBA Certificate in Kansas?

KS does not have certain rules and regulations on the registration of DBA at the country level. In most cases, the letter takes place on county or local levels. Also, you should check with your county if there is a need for a DBA filing. Note that you should clarify with the County Clerk if the DBA will be beneficial or even mandatory.  

My Company’s Status is Listed as Delinquent. What Does This Mean?

Delinquent means that the entity did not file its annual report by the deadline. It also means that the fee was not paid by the due date. 

Note that the status will be Delinquent until it files its annual report.

How Do I Find an EIN Number in Kansas?

In general, most companies registered in KS need an EIN (federal tax ID) number. Additionally, you will need to have an EIN number if your corporation has multiple partners. You will also need it if you are planning to hire employees. The number is also necessary if you will:

• Open a bank account,

• Apply for a loan,

• Get a license.

To get the ID number, you need to fill out an online form. Afterward, you will get your ID in less than an hour.   

How Can I Protect My Business Name?

It is not mandatory to reserve a title for your corporation. However, the applicants have the opportunity to reserve their desired name. You can reserve the title only for 120 days. You simply should fill out an online form for the reservation.

Are All Companies Doing Business in Kansas Required to File With the Secretary of State? 

Only Sole Proprietorships are not required to file with the Secretary of State. Other partnerships are free to choose to file an authority application with the Office. However, if an out-of-state company's entity wants to do business, they have to file an authority application. 

You should check K.S.A 17-7932 to find out if you can function as a corporation in this region. 

How Do I Register My Sole Proprietorship?

Establishing a sole proprietorship is quite easy. To do so, you need to take several simple steps. Those are:  

• Select a name for your company.

• Get an employer ID number.

• Obtain licenses, permits, and zoning clearance.

• File a trade title as a registered trademark (optional).

How Much Does a Business License Cost in Kansas?

KS does not offer general business licenses at the country level. Thus, there are no fees. However, note that your company might need a permit to operate on an occupational license.

The fee for these services may vary. Specifically, it depends on the type of corporation. 

In the case of an LLC, there may not be any fees or payments. In this case, your Kansas business license will cost $0. 

Contact Information

The Secretary of State’s office is located at 120 SW 10th Street in downtown Topeka. The working hours are from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. 

You can also ask your questions via phone by calling 785-296-4580.