LLCs
Fee
$90
Timing
Foreign entities formed under another state or country’s laws are generally required to obtain a certificate of authority before transacting business in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Required documents
Signed Application for Certificate of Authority (FBE), including certification of valid existence, and the registered agent's written consent unless the agent signs the application.
Penalties for operating without registration
Cannot maintain a Kentucky court proceeding until authorized; civil penalty of $2 per day of unauthorized business.
Timing
Foreign entities formed under another state or country’s laws are generally required to obtain a certificate of authority before transacting business in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Verified 2026-10-25 — source and quotation
required to obtain a certificate of authority before transacting businessOfficial source
Required documents
Signed Application for Certificate of Authority (FBE), including certification of valid existence, and the registered agent's written consent unless the agent signs the application.
Verified 2026-10-25 — source and quotation
I certify that, as of the date of filing this application, the above-named entity validly exists under the laws of the jurisdiction of its formation. … APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF AUTHORITY FOR A FOREIGN BUSINESS ENTITY … Unless the registered agent signs the form, the business entity must deliver with the certificate of authority, the registered agent’s consent to the appointment. … The document must be signed by an officer, chairman of the board, member, manager, trustee or a partner.Official source
Fee
$90
Verified 2026-10-25 — source and quotation
Application for Certificate of Authority: $90.00Official source
Penalties for operating without registration
Cannot maintain a Kentucky court proceeding until authorized; civil penalty of $2 per day of unauthorized business.
Verified 2026-10-25 — source and quotation
(1) A foreign entity transacting business in this Commonwealth without a certificate of authority may not maintain a proceeding in any court in this Commonwealth until it obtains a certificate of authority. … (4) A foreign entity is liable for a civil penalty of two dollars ($2) for each day it transacts business in this Commonwealth without a certificate of authority. The Secretary of State may collect all penalties due under this subsection.Official source