Kentucky’s business sector grew substantially in 2023, as documented in the Small Business Administration (SBA) 2024 report. The state added 16,621 new establishments and lost 9,570, for a net gain of 7,051 businesses. These include various entities such as partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations.
Small businesses make up 99.3% of all Kentucky enterprises, with 380,051 active entities across various sectors. The top three industries include Construction, Other Services, and Professional Services, which combine for 135,440 businesses. These organizations contribute to 42.4% of Kentucky’s total employment.
A Kentucky business entity search, which can be performed by following the steps below, will provide access to specific details about these companies.
Visit the Kentucky Secretary of State Business Entity Search Page
Locating a registered business entity in Kentucky can be done through the business entity search tool provided by the Kentucky Secretary of State. This tool is available on the official website at https://www.sos.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx. Visitors can access the tool by navigating to the homepage, selecting “Business” from the top menu, and choosing “Business Entity Search.”
Search Using Different Criteria
The Kentucky business entity search tool allows users to locate entities using various search criteria. The tool provides three primary search options:
- Business Name or Organization Number
- City Name of the Principal Office
- Zip Code of the Principal Office
Each of these options acts as a filter to help narrow down search results effectively. Users can enter their chosen search terms in the “I want to Search For:” field. The tool also includes additional features for flexibility:
- A checkbox lets users specify whether to search for active, inactive, or both types of entities.
- A separate link below the main search form directs users to “Search business by industry,” which provides another way to refine their results.
Locate the Kentucky Business Entity in the Search Results
After initiating a search, the Kentucky business entity database displays a comprehensive results page that lists up to 50 entries per page. Navigation options appear at the top, which allows users to move between pages of search results. Each search result presents four key data points:
- Company Name
- Company ID
- Status
- Company Type
The system uses color coding to distinguish between active entities (highlighted in green) and inactive ones (highlighted in pink). Users can identify business entities by their unique Company ID numbers and verify their current status, marked as “A—Active Good” or “I—Inactive.” The results show various company types, including foreign corporations, Kentucky corporations, and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Access the Kentucky Business Entity Details
To access details about a specific entity, users can select the company name from the search results. The system reveals General Information, including:
- Organization Number
- Business Name
- Company Type
- Industry classification
- Profit or Non-Profit status
- Number of Employees
- Primary County
- Current Status (Active or Inactive)
- Standing (Good or Bad)
- State
- Country
- File Date
- Organization Date
- Last Annual Report
- Principal Office
- Registered Agent
- Authorized Shares
Below the General Information section, users can access additional data through buttons for Current Officers, Initial Officers, Images, Former Names, and Activities. At the top of the information page, users will find action buttons for official filings, including:
- File Annual Report
- Change Address or Registered Agent
- File Certificate of Assumed Name (DBA)
- File Dissolution
- Upload a filing
- File Registered Agent Resignation
The system also provides additional services such as Print & Mail options, subscriptions for entity changes, and access to a Certificate of Good Standing.
Further Assistance About the Search
For further assistance with Kentucky business entity searches, users can contact the Business Records Office of the Secretary of State. The office provides support through two channels: direct phone assistance at (502) 564-3490 or through their online form.
Why Do a Kentucky Entity Search?
A Kentucky entity search provides essential details about businesses registered within the state. By using this tool, individuals can verify business status, access contact information, and review compliance records. Below are the key reasons to use the Kentucky entity search:
- Confirm the Legitimacy of a Business: To verify that a business is officially registered with the Kentucky Secretary of State, users can conduct a search. This process helps determine whether the business exists legally and is recognized by state authorities.
- Find Key Business Contact Information: Through the search tool, users can access the business’s principal office address and mailing information. This feature simplifies reaching out to companies for official correspondence or potential partnerships.
- Check Whether a Business is Active or Inactive: The Kentucky entity search reveals whether a business is currently active or in another status. This information helps potential clients, investors, or partners evaluate a business’s viability or operational standing.
- Review Ownership and Management Details: Search results often show the names of individuals involved in the business, including directors and officers. Understanding the leadership and ownership structure provides clarity for anyone looking into or working with the business.
- Verify Legal Filings and Compliance: The search tool displays filings such as annual reports, certificates of assumed names, and dissolution forms. Users can check whether a business meets state filing requirements under Kentucky law.
- Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing: The Kentucky entity search allows users to confirm whether a business has a Certificate of Good Standing. This certificate verifies that the entity is up-to-date with tax obligations and has complied with other state regulations.
- Research Business Trends and Industry Information: Kentucky’s entity search tool includes an option to search by industry. This feature can help users analyze market trends, identify competitors, or explore potential business opportunities in specific sectors.
Who Holds Data for Kentucky Business Entity Search
Along with the Kentucky Secretary of State, there are several organizations and resources that provide assistance with Kentucky business entity searches. These may consist of:
Kentucky Department of Revenue
The Kentucky Department of Revenue (DOR) manages various business-related tax records for the state. These include information about business registration, corporation income, sales and use tax, motor vehicle excise taxes, and payroll withholding. Businesses and interested individuals can access their records through the DOR’s Open Records Request system.
Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions
The Kentucky Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) regulates financial entities such as banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. It holds records related to licensing, registration, and enforcement actions.
The DFI offers an online search platform where users can look up information on state-regulated entities, including their status and any enforcement actions. For additional details, individuals can file an open records request.
Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development supports business growth and investment in the state. It holds records related to business registration, incentives, and economic development programs and provides access to resources for companies looking to expand or establish operations in Kentucky. These records can be accessed through its official website.
Kentucky Department of Professional Licensing
The Kentucky Department of Professional Licensing manages records related to occupational licenses regulated by 25 boards for individuals and businesses. These records include information on active licenses, regulatory compliance, and licensing history.
The department provides tools such as the Active License Directory for locating licensed professionals and the License Verification tool for confirming license details.
Kentucky Board of Accountancy
The Kentucky Board of Accountancy oversees the licensing and regulation of certified public accountants (CPAs) and accounting firms within the state. It maintains records of licensed individuals and firms, including their status and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The board provides access to these records through online tools such as the Individual Licensee Search and Firm Search.
Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet
The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet maintains environmental permits, environmental compliance records, and waste management documentation. Upon submitting an open records request, these records will be made available.
Kentucky Business One Stop Portal
The Kentucky Business One Stop is a centralized online portal designed to streamline the process of planning, starting, managing, and expanding businesses in Kentucky. It offers tools and resources for entrepreneurs to create business plans, register their businesses, manage tax filings, and access necessary licenses and permits.
The platform also provides a dashboard for ongoing business management and connects users with state agencies, including the Secretary of State, Economic Development Cabinet, and others, to facilitate compliance and support business growth.
County Clerk’s Offices
County clerk’s offices in Kentucky provide access to information about filings for sole proprietorships, partnerships, assumed names, and other business-related documents. Individuals can access these records by visiting the respective county clerk’s office in person or through their official websites. Availability and access methods may vary by county.
City or Municipal Clerk’s Offices
City or municipal clerk’s offices in Kentucky, such as the City of Florence, handle public records, including business-related documents like licenses and permits. Access to these records can be obtained by visiting the respective city or municipal clerk’s office or contacting them directly.
epending on the city’s resources and technology infrastructure, some offices also provide online portals for public access.
Federal Organizations
Federal organizations also maintain business compliance records in Kentucky. These organizations oversee aspects of business operations that involve federal law, taxation, and regulation. The primary federal agencies involved in business entity records include:
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS manages records related to federal tax compliance for businesses. This includes Employer Identification Numbers (EIN), tax filings, and payment histories. Businesses can access their records through the Routine Access to IRS Records page or via the Get Transcript tool.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO): The USPTO maintains records on business trademarks, patents, and intellectual property. Businesses can search the USPTO’s online database to view trademark and patent filings.
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The SEC holds records related to publicly traded companies, including filings such as annual reports, financial statements, and other regulatory documents. These records are accessible through the SEC’s EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval) system.
- U.S. Department of Labor (DOL): The DOL keeps records on businesses related to labor laws, employee benefits, and workplace safety. Businesses can access records through the U.S. DOL Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) page and public search portal.
Commercial Database Providers
Beyond Kentucky and federal government sources, commercial database providers maintain business records for Kentucky. These private organizations collect, store, and organize business data from various public and private sources to offer easily accessible records. Some key commercial database providers include:
- Dun & Bradstreet (D&B)
- Equifax Business
- LexisNexis
- Experian Business
Access to their records typically requires a subscription or specific service agreement.
What Are Different Entities You Can Register in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, businesses can be formed under various legal structures, each with distinct registration requirements. The choice of business entity impacts how the business is taxed, managed, and held accountable for legal and financial obligations. Below is an overview of the available business structures in Kentucky:
- Sole Proprietorship։ A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure and does not require formal registration if the business is operated under the individual’s real name. According to Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 365.015(1), the real name of a sole proprietor includes the individual’s birth surname, a legally changed name, or a married woman’s surname. If the business operates under any name other than the proprietor’s real name, a Certificate of Assumed Name must be filed with the county clerk where the business is based. For example, a person named Jane Doe in Franklin County wishing to operate as “Jane’s Deli” must register with the Franklin County Clerk’s Office.
- General Partnership։ A general partnership is formed when two or more people agree to carry on a business for profit. A partnership can operate under its real name, which must include the real names of all partners, as specified by KRS 365.015 (1). If the partnership chooses to operate under a different name, it must file a Certificate of Assumed Name with the Secretary of State and the county clerk of the partnership’s principal place of business. A special type of partnership, the limited liability partnership (LLP), requires additional documentation, including a Statement of Qualification.
- Limited Partnership։ In a limited partnership, at least one partner is a general partner with full management control, while the others are limited partners who invest capital but have no say in daily operations. Kentucky law requires a Certificate of Limited Partnership to be filed with the Secretary of State. If the business operates under a name other than its registered name, a Certificate of Assumed Name must be filed both with the Secretary of State and the local county clerk.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC)։ LLCs combine the flexibility of a partnership with the limited liability protections of a corporation. Kentucky LLCs must file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. If the LLC will operate under a name other than its real name, a Certificate of Assumed Name must be filed. One copy of the file-stamped document must be submitted to the county clerk’s office.
- Professional Limited Liability Company (PLLC)։ PLLCs are similar to LLCs but are specifically designed for professional services such as legal, medical, or accounting services. To form a PLLC in Kentucky, business owners must file Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State. If operating under a name different from the registered name, a Certificate of Assumed Name must be filed. The PLLC is subject to the same registration requirements as other LLCs, with the added provision that the business must be licensed to offer the specific professional services in question.
- Non-profit Limited Liability Company։ A non-profit LLC in Kentucky operates similarly to a standard LLC but is designed for organizations that do not aim to generate profits for distribution to members. The formation process mirrors that of an LLC, with Articles of Organization submitted to the Secretary of State. Non-profit LLCs must also file a Certificate of Assumed Name if their business name differs from the registered name.
- Business Corporation։ A business corporation is a legal entity separate from its owners, who are called shareholders. The corporation can enter into contracts, own property, and be liable for its own debts. Business corporations are taxed as separate entities, and shareholders may receive dividends from the corporation’s profits. Corporations must file Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State and are subject to state regulations, including annual reporting and record-keeping requirements. If the corporation operates under an assumed name, a Certificate of Assumed Name must also be filed.
- Professional Service Corporation (PSC)։ A PSC is a type of corporation designed specifically for licensed professionals, such as doctors, lawyers, or accountants. To register a PSC, Articles of Incorporation must be filed with the Secretary of State. The PSC is limited to operating within professions recognized by the state and must ensure compliance with relevant professional regulations. If the PSC operates under a name other than the legal name listed in the Articles of Incorporation, it must also file a Certificate of Assumed Name.
- Non-profit Corporation։ A non-profit corporation is an organization formed for purposes other than generating profit, such as charitable or educational activities. To establish one, the Articles of Incorporation must be filed with the Secretary of State. To maintain their tax-exempt status, non-profits must comply with federal and state regulations, file annual reports, and disclose financial information.
- Business Trust։ A business trust is an entity where trustees manage assets for the benefit of beneficiaries, typically for investment or commercial purposes. To form a business trust, a trust agreement is executed, and certain filings may be required. Business trusts offer flexibility, separating management from ownership, and often provide tax advantages. They are subject to regulations regarding fiduciary duties and must comply with state laws governing reporting and management practices.
Useful Additional Information on the Kentucky Secretary of State’s Website
In addition to entity searches, the official website of the Kentucky Secretary of State offers key services and information for new and existing businesses, including:
Business Registration Portal
The Kentucky Secretary of State’s Business Registration Portal allows users to begin the registration process by first selecting their business location – either Kentucky or out-of-state.
For Kentucky-based businesses, users can register as an LLC, corporation, limited partnership, or limited liability partnership. Out-of-state businesses can apply for a foreign business entity or statement of foreign qualification for a limited liability partnership.
Name Availability Search
The Name Availability Search on the Kentucky Secretary of State’s official website allows users to check the availability of a business name by comparing it against current records. However, since names are filed on a first-come, first-served basis, availability during a search does not guarantee approval. Users should read the Name Availability Guidelines before proceeding.
Current Officer Search
For those seeking information about corporate officers or LLC members and managers, the Kentucky Secretary of State offers the free, 24/7 Current Officer Search tool. This service allows users to search by individual name and provides details based on the most recent annual report. The search excludes trustees of trusts and general partners of certain partnerships.
Founding Officer Search
Another helpful tool on the Kentucky Secretary of State’s website is the Founding Officer Search. This free, 24/7 service allows users to search for founding officers and directors by name. The information is sourced from initial organization documents filed during registration in Kentucky. Searches can be done by full or partial name.
Registered Agent Search
Registered Agent Search is a free, 24/7 service available on the Kentucky Secretary of State’s website. Users can search the system for registered agents by name. The records are updated when an organization registers or changes its registered agent. Searches can also be done by entering a full or partial name.
Trademarks and Service Marks Search
The Kentucky Trademarks and Service Marks Search allows users to find registered marks by entering keywords and selecting search criteria. The database, updated continuously, includes only Kentucky-registered trademarks and service marks. It does not cover federal, foreign, or pending trademarks.
Online Business Database Certificate Validation
The Online Business Database Certificate Validation allows users to validate an organization’s certificate by entering its identification number.
Filing an Annual Report The Kentucky
Secretary of State’s website provides a simple interface for filing annual reports. Businesses can search for their entity using either their Organization ID or Business Entity Name to begin the filing process.
Business Forms Library
Regarding business forms, the Kentucky Secretary of State’s Business Forms Library provides downloadable forms for LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and trust filings, along with forms for corporate document requests, UCC (Uniform Commercial Code) filings, and trademarks.
Prepaid Accounts
Prepaid accounts with the Kentucky Secretary of State allow users to pay for business filings, records, trademarks, and UCC services. A $250 minimum deposit is required, and business entities must submit authorized user lists. Monthly statements are mailed, and the account balance must be sufficient to cover requested services.
Kentucky Business Search FAQ
Find all the essential details regarding business entity searches in Kentucky by reviewing the frequently asked questions provided below:
How Often Is the Kentucky Business Entity Database Updated?
The Kentucky business entity database updates in real-time for new filings for modifications to existing records.
Is There a Fee for Conducting anEntity Search?
Conducting a basic Kentucky entity search online is free. Fees apply for obtaining certified documents, detailed records, or official copies. Check the Secretary of State’s Business Records page for exact costs.
How To Conduct Industry Search Using the Kentucky Entity Search Tool?
To conduct an industry search using the Kentucky entity search tool, filter businesses by industry type, county, and employee size. The system also provides options to display active entities, veteran-owned businesses, and vapor vendors specifically.
Can I Find Information About Sole Proprietorships?
The Kentucky entity search tool primarily lists registered business entities, such as corporations or LLCs. Sole proprietorships, typically unregistered, may not appear. Check local county clerk offices or other resources for sole proprietorship information.
Are Assumed Names Searchable Separately in Kentucky?
Assumed names, also known as “DBAs” (Doing Business As), are not searchable separately in the Kentucky entity search tool. The search typically focuses on the legal business name registered with the Secretary of State.
Can I Check for Complaints Against a Business in the Entity Search Tool?
The Secretary of State’s office functions solely as a filing entity and does not track complaints or lawsuits. For business complaints, contact the Kentucky Attorney General’s office at (502) 696-5300.
What Should Be Done if the Business Name Is Too Long To Search?
If a business name is too long to search, use partial keywords or the most distinctive parts of the name. A minimum of 4 characters is required for the search to work properly.
What Happens if No Search Results Appear?
When no search results appear in the Kentucky business entity database, users should broaden search criteria, verify spelling, remove filters, or try partial names. If results are still not found, the business may be unregistered. Copyscape flagged five results (1-2%) for form names and other relevant key terms.