This state overview includes local filing rules. Choose your entity below, then confirm the office for the location where you do business. A county example or fee in the sources is not a statewide filing destination or a quote for your selected office.
If your location is not listed, use the local authority described in the entity rules below. We do not have a reviewed local answer for every location.
What Kentucky calls a DBA
The official term documented here is assumed name.
Kentucky requires an assumed-name certificate when a covered individual or entity does business under a name other than its real name as defined in KRS365.015. The filing office depends on the entity. A sole proprietor files with a county clerk; the reviewed general partnership, LLC and corporation routes begin with the Secretary of State.
No individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Each certificate of assumed name for an individual shall be filed with the county clerk where the person maintains his or her principal place of business.
Each certificate of assumed name for a general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, or limited cooperative association shall be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing, accompanied by one (1) exact or conformed copy. One (1) of the exact or conformed copies stamped as "filed" by the Secretary of State shall be filed with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its registered agent for service of process or, if no registered agent for service of process is required, then with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its principal office. If the entity does not maintain a registered agent for service of process and does not maintain a principal office in this Commonwealth, then the certificate of assumed name shall be filed only with the Secretary of State.
A certificate does not automatically prevent another person from using the name. Assumed-name registration is separate from choosing or forming the legal entity.
The filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.
Search existing names
Before filing, check the authority’s own records for the name you plan to use. This guide links to the official search; it does not run, proxy, or store searches.
What the search covers: This system enables customers to review all documents on file with the Office of the Secretary of State.Source: sosbes.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt##### This system enables customers to review all documents on file with the Office of the Secretary of State.
Rules by legal entity type
Jump to the entity that already exists. Each section keeps its own authority, fee, exceptions, and official evidence.
Local filing route: confirm the county, parish, city or town office identified by the authority and applicability below. The following forms, fees and office details are references from the cited jurisdiction; confirm they apply to your location before using them. Check reviewed local filing choices →
Required: Yes, when the documented conditions apply.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Authority: county clerkSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptEach certificate of assumed name for an individual shall be filed with the county clerk where the person maintains his or her principal place of business.
When this route applies: No individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Local filing reference — Official form: certificate of assumed nameSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Local filing reference — Form destination: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — Online filing link: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — State filing fee — county charges separate: The county clerk shall receive a fee pursuant to KRS 64.012 for filing each
certificateSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerpt(11) The county clerk shall receive a fee pursuant to KRS 64.012 for filing each
certificate, and the Secretary of State shall receive a fee of twenty dollars ($20) for
filing each certificate, amendment,
Local filing reference — Effective duration: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filingSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Local filing reference — Renewal: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Local filing reference — Changes or amendments: A certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptA certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.
Local filing reference — Abandonment or cancellation: Upon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptUpon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.
Local filing reference — Important exclusions: The filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptThe filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.
Local filing reference — Mail filing: Not confirmed in this guide.
Local filing reference — In-person filing: Could not be confirmed because official sources conflict.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptEach certificate of assumed name for an individual shall be filed with the county clerk where the person maintains his or her principal place of business.
General partnership
Required: Yes, when the documented conditions apply.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Authority: Secretary of StateSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptEach certificate of assumed name for a general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, or limited cooperative association shall be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing, accompanied by one (1) exact or conformed copy. One (1) of the exact or conformed copies stamped as "filed" by the Secretary of State shall be filed with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its registered agent for service of process or, if no registered agent for service of process is required, then with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its principal office. If the entity does not maintain a registered agent for service of process and does not maintain a principal office in this Commonwealth, then the certificate of assumed name shall be filed only with the Secretary of State.
When this route applies: No individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Official form: certificate of assumed nameSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Form destination: https://web.sos.ky.gov/forms/corp/ASN-Certificate%20of%20Assumed%20Name.pdfSource: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptCertificate of Assumed Name
Online filing link: Not confirmed in this guide.
State filing fee — county charges separate: $20.00Source: www.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOther Filing Fees - $20.00 - Certificate of Assumed Name - Amended Certificate of Assumed Name - Withdrawal Certificate of Assumed Name - Renewal Certificate of Assumed Name
Effective duration: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filingSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Renewal: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Changes or amendments: A general partnership, except a limited liability partnership, shall amend an assumed name certificate to reflect a change in the identity of partners. The amendment shall set forth: (a) The assumed name and date of original filing; (b) A statement setting out the changes in identity of the partners; and (c) Shall be signed by at least one (1) partner authorized to do so by the partners.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptA general partnership, except a limited liability partnership, shall amend an assumed name certificate to reflect a change in the identity of partners. The amendment shall set forth: (a) The assumed name and date of original filing; (b) A statement setting out the changes in identity of the partners; and (c) Shall be signed by at least one (1) partner authorized to do so by the partners.
Abandonment or cancellation: Upon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptUpon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.
Important exclusions: The filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptThe filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.
Mail filing: MAILING ADDRESS Michael Adams Office of the Secretary of State PO Box 718 Frankfort, KY 40602-0718Source: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptMAILING ADDRESS Michael Adams Office of the Secretary of State PO Box 718 Frankfort, KY 40602-0718
In-person filing: OFFICE LOCATION 1025 Capital Center Drive Suite 201 Frankfort, KY 40601 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM ETSource: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOFFICE LOCATION 1025 Capital Center Drive Suite 201 Frankfort, KY 40601 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM ET
LLC
Required: Yes, when the documented conditions apply.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Authority: Secretary of StateSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptEach certificate of assumed name for a general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, or limited cooperative association shall be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing, accompanied by one (1) exact or conformed copy. One (1) of the exact or conformed copies stamped as "filed" by the Secretary of State shall be filed with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its registered agent for service of process or, if no registered agent for service of process is required, then with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its principal office. If the entity does not maintain a registered agent for service of process and does not maintain a principal office in this Commonwealth, then the certificate of assumed name shall be filed only with the Secretary of State.
When this route applies: No individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Official form: certificate of assumed nameSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Form destination: https://web.sos.ky.gov/forms/corp/ASN-Certificate%20of%20Assumed%20Name.pdfSource: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptCertificate of Assumed Name
Online filing link: Not confirmed in this guide.
State filing fee — county charges separate: $20.00Source: www.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOther Filing Fees - $20.00 - Certificate of Assumed Name - Amended Certificate of Assumed Name - Withdrawal Certificate of Assumed Name - Renewal Certificate of Assumed Name
Effective duration: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filingSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Renewal: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Changes or amendments: A certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptA certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.
Abandonment or cancellation: Upon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptUpon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.
Important exclusions: The filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptThe filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.
Mail filing: MAILING ADDRESS Michael Adams Office of the Secretary of State PO Box 718 Frankfort, KY 40602-0718Source: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptMAILING ADDRESS Michael Adams Office of the Secretary of State PO Box 718 Frankfort, KY 40602-0718
In-person filing: OFFICE LOCATION 1025 Capital Center Drive Suite 201 Frankfort, KY 40601 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM ETSource: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOFFICE LOCATION 1025 Capital Center Drive Suite 201 Frankfort, KY 40601 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM ET
Corporation
Required: Yes, when the documented conditions apply.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Authority: Secretary of StateSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptEach certificate of assumed name for a general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, or limited cooperative association shall be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing, accompanied by one (1) exact or conformed copy. One (1) of the exact or conformed copies stamped as "filed" by the Secretary of State shall be filed with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its registered agent for service of process or, if no registered agent for service of process is required, then with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its principal office. If the entity does not maintain a registered agent for service of process and does not maintain a principal office in this Commonwealth, then the certificate of assumed name shall be filed only with the Secretary of State.
When this route applies: No individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Official form: certificate of assumed nameSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptNo individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association shall conduct or transact business in this Commonwealth under an assumed name or any style other than his, her, or its real name, as defined in subsection (1) of this section, unless such individual, general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, limited cooperative association, or unincorporated nonprofit association that has filed a certificate of association has filed a certificate of assumed name;
Form destination: https://web.sos.ky.gov/forms/corp/ASN-Certificate%20of%20Assumed%20Name.pdfSource: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptCertificate of Assumed Name
Online filing link: Not confirmed in this guide.
State filing fee — county charges separate: $20.00Source: www.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOther Filing Fees - $20.00 - Certificate of Assumed Name - Amended Certificate of Assumed Name - Withdrawal Certificate of Assumed Name - Renewal Certificate of Assumed Name
Effective duration: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filingSource: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Renewal: An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptAn assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Changes or amendments: A certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptA certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.
Abandonment or cancellation: Upon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptUpon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.
Important exclusions: The filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptThe filing of a certificate of assumed name shall not automatically prevent the use of that name or protect that name from use by other persons.
Mail filing: MAILING ADDRESS Michael Adams Office of the Secretary of State PO Box 718 Frankfort, KY 40602-0718Source: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptMAILING ADDRESS Michael Adams Office of the Secretary of State PO Box 718 Frankfort, KY 40602-0718
In-person filing: OFFICE LOCATION 1025 Capital Center Drive Suite 201 Frankfort, KY 40601 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM ETSource: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptOFFICE LOCATION 1025 Capital Center Drive Suite 201 Frankfort, KY 40601 Hours of Operation: 8:00 AM-4:30 PM ET
Facts awaiting confirmation
Official sources currently conflict for this sole proprietor filing, so the disputed value is suppressed. Review every competing official excerpt before paying.
Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptEach certificate of assumed name for an individual shall be filed with the county clerk where the person maintains his or her principal place of business.Source: web.sos.ky.gov official record · retrieved Supporting excerptKRS 365.015(3) requires the certificate of assumed name for an individual (sole proprietorship) to be filed with the county clerk where the person is deemed a resident for the purposes of and under the provisions of KRS Chapter 355.
How to file through the authority
For a sole proprietor, confirm the correct county before filing. The statute says the county of the principal place of business, while the currently served state form describes the county where the individual is deemed a resident under Chapter355. These official descriptions differ; this guide does not resolve that location question or quote a county fee. Confirm it with the receiving clerk before using a state-entity form.
Each certificate of assumed name for an individual shall be filed with the county clerk where the person maintains his or her principal place of business.
For a general partnership, LLC or corporation, file with the Secretary of State and follow the statute’s additional county-copy rule. A filed copy goes to the county of the registered agent, or the principal office if no agent is required. If the entity has neither an agent nor a principal office in Kentucky, the statute specifies filing only with the Secretary of State.
Each certificate of assumed name for a general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, or limited cooperative association shall be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing, accompanied by one (1) exact or conformed copy. One (1) of the exact or conformed copies stamped as "filed" by the Secretary of State shall be filed with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its registered agent for service of process or, if no registered agent for service of process is required, then with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its principal office. If the entity does not maintain a registered agent for service of process and does not maintain a principal office in this Commonwealth, then the certificate of assumed name shall be filed only with the Secretary of State.
The state ASN form is labeled for a domestic or foreign business entity. The current state fee schedule lists $20 for each assumed-name certificate, amendment, withdrawal and renewal. That is the state charge, not a combined state-and-county total. Use the form’s mailing or office instructions; no reviewed direct online URL is asserted here.
Other Filing Fees - $20.00 - Certificate of Assumed Name - Amended Certificate of Assumed Name - Withdrawal Certificate of Assumed Name - Renewal Certificate of Assumed Name
Renewal, amendment, and abandonment
The statute provides a five-year term from filing and renewal within the six months before expiration, using the same filing manner as the original certificate. Do not turn the state form’s renewal instructions into a state-only route for a county-filed sole proprietorship.
An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
A general partnership other than an LLP must amend for a change in partner identity. The statute separately permits amendment of the real name or address of the holder. Use the applicable event and receiving office; the existence of a state amendment fee does not establish a county price.
A general partnership, except a limited liability partnership, shall amend an assumed name certificate to reflect a change in the identity of partners. The amendment shall set forth: (a) The assumed name and date of original filing; (b) A statement setting out the changes in identity of the partners; and (c) Shall be signed by at least one (1) partner authorized to do so by the partners.
A certificate of assumed name may be amended to revise the real name or the address of the person or business organization holding the certificate of assumed name.
On discontinuing use, file a withdrawal certificate in the office where the original was filed. The statute identifies the assumed name, former filer’s real name/address and original filing date as certificate details.
Upon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.
Publication and notice
Publication could not be confirmed for sole proprietor, general partnership, llc, corporation. No requirement or exemption is asserted.
Next steps: self-file first
Choose the existing entity, identify the proper state or county office, and check whether a state filing also needs a county copy. Retain the accepted filing date, set the five-year expiration and six-month renewal window, and use withdrawal when the name is discontinued.
Each certificate of assumed name for a general partnership, limited partnership, business or statutory trust, corporation, limited liability company, or limited cooperative association shall be delivered to the Secretary of State for filing, accompanied by one (1) exact or conformed copy. One (1) of the exact or conformed copies stamped as "filed" by the Secretary of State shall be filed with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its registered agent for service of process or, if no registered agent for service of process is required, then with the county clerk of the county where the entity maintains its principal office. If the entity does not maintain a registered agent for service of process and does not maintain a principal office in this Commonwealth, then the certificate of assumed name shall be filed only with the Secretary of State.
An assumed name shall be effective for a term of five (5) years from the date of filing and may be renewed for successive terms upon filing a renewal certificate within six (6) months prior to the expiration of the term, in the same manner of filing the original certificate as set out in subsection (3) of this section.
Upon discontinuing the use of an assumed name, the certificate shall be withdrawn by filing a certificate in the office wherein the original certificate of assumed name was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall state the assumed name, the real name and address of the party formerly transacting business under the assumed name and the date upon which the original certificate was filed. The certificate of withdrawal shall be signed for an individual by the individual or his or her agent and otherwise as provided in KRS 14A.2-020.
This guide cannot confirm county prices or newspaper-publication requirements. It does not collect owner information, file documents or accept payments.
Paid help, if offered later, is optional. This independent guide does not submit filings or accept government fees.