Kentucky LLC Operating Agreement Template [PDF]

• Single-member LLC operating agreement: This operating agreement type is used for LLCs established by only one member. It includes rules on how the company will be operated but doesn’t regulate the relationships between the members.

• Multi-member LLC operating agreement: Here, there are multiple members that establish the LLC. The operating agreement then has to regulate how the company will be operated and outline the rules that regulate the mutual relationship between the partners.

• Member-managed LLC operating agreement: This type of operating agreement provides rules on how the company will be operated in situations where the members decide to actively participate in a decision-making process in the LLC.

• Manager-managed LLC operating agreement: Here, the members of the LLC decide to delegate their decision-making powers to the professional manager. The operating agreement then outlines the rights and duties of a manager in the company.

#1. Reserve a Name For Your LLC

The very first step in this process is to choose the business name of your company. You are free to choose any business name, as long as it is distinguishable. This means that the name is not similar to any business name already registered in Kentucky. 

To check if your business name is distinguishable, you should go to the Secretary of State business database and do a preliminary check.

#2. Choose the Type of LLC

In Kentucky, you can choose between a domestic LLC and a foreign LLC. The main difference between these two types is that the domestic LLC is established and registered in Kentucky, while the foreign LLC is registered in Kentucky but was previously established in some other state.

#3. Nominate an Agent

In this step, you must choose a registered agent that will receive official notices and documents on behalf of the LLC. This must be an individual with a registered address in Kentucky or an entity with the authority to conduct business in Kentucky.

#4. File the Registration Documents

For domestic LLCs, you should submit the Articles of Organization. You can do it online or by submitting the form in hard copy.

For foreign LLCs, you must submit the Certificate of Authority. Here, you can also apply online or fill out the application in hard copy.

#5. Pay the Required Fee

The fee for establishing a domestic LLC is $40, while the fee for establishing a foreign LLC is $90. If you submit the application in hard copy, you should attach a check for one of the abovementioned amounts and send it to the following address:

• Secretary of State, P.O. Box 718, Frankfort, KY 40602-0718, or

• Room 154, Capitol Building, 700 Capital Avenue, Frankfort, KY 40601

#6. Create your LLC Operating Agreement

After registering your LLC in Kentucky, you should create an operating agreement and outline the operation procedures inside your company. Although this step is not required, it will help you optimize your business. 

#7. Apply For an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

This number will enable you to open a bank account and hire employees. You can obtain it on the IRS website or by completing the SS-4 form.