How Long Does It Take To Form an LLC in Kansas (Full Guide)
Forming an LLC in Kansas requires filing the necessary documents with the Kansas Secretary of State and adhering to state procedures.
As a Mergers and Acquisitions specialist who has guided over 30 clients through Kansas business formation, and I consulted with local LLC attorneys to compile this timeline guide. Online filings receive immediate approval, while mail submissions process within 2-3 business days.
You can also engage professional LLC formation services in Kansas, who can handle the entire LLC setup process on your behalf.
Quick Summary
- It takes 2-3 business days to form an LLC in Kansas by mail, while online filings are processed immediately.
- The state of Kansas does not offer expedited service because electronic submissions are instantly approved.
- Kansas saw a 5.7% increase in business filings between the first nine months of 2022 and 2023.
- I remind you that in-person filings are processed within 2-3 business days.
What is The Fastest Way to Start an LLC in Kansas?
The fastest way to start an LLC in Kansas is by filing online for immediate approval. However, the approval time may take longer if due to errors in the processing.
When filing your limited liability company online, you can access the Secretary of State business services via KanAccess on the Kansas Business Filing Center [1].
If you file online, the different payment methods include Visa, Discover, Mastercard, American Express, or electronic checks.
As per Kansas SOS regulations, if you want to pay via an electronic check from a checking account, ensure you list your routing and account numbers at the bottom of the check [2].
LLC Processing Time in Kansas
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2025 Kansas profile, 11,181 establishments opened between March 2023 and March 2024, with small businesses accounting for 10,314 of those openings [3].
Here's a detailed breakdown of each filing method the Kansas Secretary of State Business Services provides.
1. Non-Expedited Kansas LLC Processing Time By Mail (2-3 business days)
Standard mail processing takes 2-3 working days plus the extra mailing time.
When mailing your LLC registration documents, attach the $165 filing fee as a money order or check payable to the Kansas Secretary of State.
When mailing your LLC registration documents, attach the $165 filing fee as a money order or check payable to the Kansas Secretary of State.
Submit paper documents to:
Kansas Secretary of State
Docking State Office Building
915 SW Harrison Street
Topeka, KS 66612
Phone: (785) 296-4564
After approval, the Kansas SOS will mail your certified Articles of Organization to your Kansas registered agent service via first-class mail.
2. Kansas LLC Processing Time Online (Immediate approval)
The Kansas SOS processes online LLC filings within minutes because there's no mailing transit time. Filing online costs $160 (or $166 including the $6 KanAccess processing fee) and provides immediate access to your certified copy for printing.
3. Kansas LLC Processing Time by Fax (1 business day)
Fax filing takes 1 working day to process. Submit documents with a $185 fee (base $165 plus $20 fax surcharge).
When I tried filing through fax, I learned that you have to fax the correct documents with updated information before 4:00 pm CT, so that your LLC will receive that day's filing date.
After approval, you can request a certified/stamped copy to be faxed to you for an additional $1.
4. Kansas LLC Processing Time In Person (2-3 business days)
In-person filing has an LLC processing time of 2-3 business days. Download the Articles of Organization online and submit the paperwork with a $165 filing fee to the Secretary of State's office.
"Timing matters; filing during off-peak periods can expedite the LLC formation process in Kansas."
- Jon Morgan, CEO, Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter
Factors Influencing The Formation Timeline Of Kansas LLCs
The LLC processing time may be prolonged due to the following reasons:
- Method of filing: The approval time will primarily depend on the filing method you opted for. Mail application, online submissions, in person and by fax filings have different processing times.
- Volume of application: The volume of transactions will delay the approval time, since the state can’t immediately review and process formation documents during periods with high filing volume.
- Weekends or holidays: The state agency only reviews applications during regular business hours. That’s why I always file on a Monday so that the state can process the document without delay.
Related article: How to Dissolve an LLC in Kansas
FAQs
Where Can I Check the Status of My Kansas LLC Formation During the Processing Period?
You can check the status of your Kansas LLC formation during the processing period by contact the Secretary of State’s office or checking your online account.
Is There a Difference in Processing Time for Domestic and Foreign LLCs in Kansas?
There's no difference in processing time for domestic and foreign LLCs in Kansas.
Do I Need a Registered Agent to Form an LLC in Kansas?
Yes, you need a registered agent to form an LLC in Kansas. State law requires every LLC to designate a registered agent with a physical street address who can accept legal documents during business hours. You can serve as your own or hire a professional service for $100-$300 annually.
How Do I Get an Employer Identification Number for My Kansas LLC?
You get an EIN for your Kansas LLC by applying through the Internal Revenue Service. Visit the IRS website at irs.gov and complete the free online application to receive your EIN immediately. You need this number to open a business bank account, hire employees, and file federal taxes.
References:
- https://sos.ks.gov/business/business.html
- https://sos.ks.gov/business/faq-business-entity.html
- https://advocacy.sba.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Kansas_2025-State-Profile.pdf
