Short answer: Must include an LLC designator.
We've pulled these figures from the Kentucky Secretary of State, Division of Business Filings's own pages. If something's changed since our last check, the state's portal wins, so it's worth a quick look before you pay.
Kentucky naming rules
Must include an LLC designator.
Open the official Kentucky name search
Reserving a name
Kentucky lets you reserve a name for $15, which holds it for 120 days.
Doing business under another name
Kentucky DBAs are filed with: UNCONFIRMED. Fee: UNCONFIRMED.
How Kentucky compares
Kentucky's name reservation fee is $15. That's the 11th lowest of 50 jurisdictions we track. The national median is $25, so Kentucky comes in $10 under it.
| State | Fee | National rank (1 = highest) |
|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $15 | 38 of 50 |
| Indiana | $10 | 41 of 50 |
| Missouri | $25 | 18 of 50 |
| Tennessee | $20 | 33 of 50 |
| West Virginia | $15 | 38 of 50 |
| Arkansas | $22.5 | 31 of 50 |
Kentucky fees that apply here
| Filing | State fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Articles of Organization | $40 | $40 for both online and paper submissions |
| Name reservation (optional) | $15 | 120 days |
| Amendment | $40 | |
| DBA / assumed name | UNCONFIRMED | UNCONFIRMED |
Name search and rules: Kentucky questions
How do I check if an LLC name is available in Kentucky?
Use the official Kentucky Secretary of State, Division of Business Filings business search. A name that's distinguishable from existing records can usually be registered.
What words must a Kentucky LLC name include?
Must include an LLC designator.
Can I reserve an LLC name in Kentucky?
Yes. Reservation costs $15 and holds the name for 120 days.
Do I need a DBA in Kentucky?
Only if you'll do business under a name other than your exact LLC name. DBAs are filed with: UNCONFIRMED. Fee: UNCONFIRMED.
Sources and verification
Last checked against official state sources on . States change fees with little notice, so confirm on the filing portal before you pay. How we verify.
Still being confirmed with the state: dba where, dba fee.