LLC Annual Report: Due Dates, Fees, What Happens If Missed

What is an LLC annual report, what does it ask for, when it's due, what it costs, and what happens if you miss the filing deadline in your state each year?

An LLC annual report is a short filing most states require to keep your company in good standing. It confirms your basic information, like your address and registered agent, and usually comes with a small fee. This guide explains what it asks for, when it's due, and what happens if you skip it.

What an annual report is

An annual report is a periodic filing that updates the state on your LLC's basic details. Some states call it a biennial report, an annual statement, or a certificate of good standing. Whatever the name, its purpose is the same: keep your public record current.

It's not a tax return. It's a separate filing with your Secretary of State or similar agency. Filing it keeps your LLC active and in good standing, which matters if you ever need to prove your company is legitimate.

What the report asks for

Annual reports are usually short. They typically ask for your LLC's name, your principal office address, and the name and address of your registered agent. Some states also ask for the names of your members or managers.

• Your LLC's legal name.
• Your principal office address.
• Your registered agent's name and address.
• Names of members or managers in some states.

You'll also confirm that your registered agent is still valid. If your agent has changed, you'll update that here. Keeping this information current is important, since the state uses it to send you official notices.

When it's due varies by state

There's no single due date. Some states tie the report to your LLC's anniversary of formation. Others use a fixed date, like the end of the year or the anniversary of your registration. A few states require reports every two years instead of every year.

• Annual reports due on your formation anniversary.
• Reports due on a fixed date like year end.
• Biennial reports filed every two years.

Because the rules differ so much, check your state's Secretary of State website for the exact schedule. Missing the deadline is easy if you assume a date that doesn't apply to your state.

Fees and how to file

Annual report fees are typically $20 to $100, though they vary by state and can be higher in some places. Most states let you file online through their business portal, which is fast and confirms your submission immediately.

Some states charge a late fee if you file after the deadline, so it's worth filing on time. A few states don't require an annual report at all, but most do, so confirm what applies to you.

What happens if you miss it

Missing your annual report can lead to late fees, and eventually your LLC can be administratively dissolved. That means the state cancels your LLC, and you lose the liability protection it provides.

If your LLC is dissolved, you may be able to reinstate it by filing the overdue reports and paying the fees. But it's easier to stay on schedule. Our LLC compliance guide covers all the ongoing requirements, and if you ever need to close the business, see our guide to how to dissolve an LLC.

Keep your registered agent current

Your registered agent is the person or service that receives official mail for your LLC, including annual report notices. If your agent changes and you don't update it, you could miss important deadlines. Learn more in our guide to registered agents.

Staying on top of your annual report is one of the simplest ways to keep your LLC healthy. It takes a few minutes a year and protects the structure you set up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an LLC annual report?

An annual report is a short filing that updates the state on your LLC's basic information, like your address and registered agent. It's separate from your taxes and keeps your LLC in good standing. Some states call it a biennial report.

When is the LLC annual report due?

Due dates vary by state. Some states tie the report to your LLC's formation anniversary, while others use a fixed date. A few require reports every two years. Check your state's Secretary of State website for the exact schedule. Mark it on your calendar so you don't forget.

How much does an LLC annual report cost?

Fees are typically $20 to $100, though they vary by state and can be higher in some places. Some states also charge a late fee if you file after the deadline. Most states let you file and pay online. Filing online usually takes just a few minutes.

What happens if I don't file my LLC annual report?

You may face late fees, and eventually your LLC can be administratively dissolved, which cancels the company and its liability protection. You can often reinstate it by filing the overdue reports and paying the fees. Reinstatement rules and costs vary by state.

Is an annual report the same as a tax return?

No. An annual report is a filing with your Secretary of State that updates your business information. A tax return is filed with the IRS and your state tax agency. You may need to do both each year. They serve different purposes and go to different offices.