How to Form an LLC in Kentucky

Step 1: File Your LLC ($40)

Go to the Kentucky Secretary of State website and file your Articles of Organization online. You'll need: your LLC name (must be unique in Kentucky — search the state database first), a registered agent (can be yourself at your home address for a single-member LLC), and $40 for the filing fee.

At $40, Kentucky is one of the most affordable states to form an LLC — ranked #1 cheapest out of 50 states.

Step 2: Get Your Free EIN (Same Day)

After your LLC is approved, apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) at IRS.gov. It's free and instant online. Your EIN is your business's tax ID number — you need it to open a business bank account, apply for business credit cards, and file business taxes.

Step 3: Open a Business Bank Account

With your LLC docs and EIN, open a free business checking account. Options with no monthly fees or minimums: Novo, Relay, Bluevine, or Mercury. Deposit all business income here and pay all business expenses from here. This separation is critical — it maintains your LLC's liability protection and makes tax filing dramatically easier.

Step 4: Get Your Free DUNS Number

Register at dnb.comfor a free D-U-N-S number. This is the foundation of your business credit file with Dun & Bradstreet. Do NOT pay for CreditBuilder ($149/month) — the free registration is sufficient. Your DUNS number activates within 1-2 weeks.

Step 5: Open Net-30 Accounts & Apply for Business Cards

Open 3-5 Net-30 vendor accounts that report to business credit bureaus (Uline, Quill, Grainger). Make small purchases and pay early. After 3-6 months of reporting, apply for a business credit card — the Chase Ink Business Cash ($0 fee, 5% on office supplies) is the best starting point.