How to Start a Business in Kansas

Introduction

Starting a business in Kansas is a rewarding process, but it can also be overwhelming. This guide provides an overview of the steps you need to take to get your business off the ground, including choosing a name and registering with state agencies.

Name Your Business

Choose a name that is easy to pronounce and spell. Use a name that’s unique and memorable, but not so unique that potential customers have trouble spelling it or remembering it.

Avoid using names that are too long, as they may cause people to overlook your company in their search results. Unusual, long-winded or overly complicated business names can be hard for the average person to remember, which makes them less likely to return again and again—or even at all!

Choose a Business Structure

Choosing the correct business structure for your company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The type of business you choose will have a significant impact on how much money you make and where that money goes.

Register Your Business With the State

To register with the state, you need to complete and submit the Kansas Business Entity Online Application.

On the first page of your application, enter your business name exactly as you want it to appear on official documents (certificates, agreements etc.). Be sure to include any punctuation marks or symbols you want in your company name (e.g., if “Inc.” is part of the name). You should also enter an address for yourself and all members of your business entity—if someone does not have an address listed for them on file when processing their application at DORA (the Department of Revenue), then they will receive a letter asking them to provide one before processing their application can continue forward with DORA.

Get Licenses and Permits

Licenses and permits are required for all types of businesses in Kansas. The type of license or permit you need depends on the type of business you want to start, but common licenses and permits include:

• Business licenses
• Building permits
• Permits for outdoor signs
• Permits for public events (such as festivals)
• Permits for food trucks

Choose a Registered Agent

A registered agent is an individual or company that is authorized to accept important documents on behalf of your business, such as legal papers and official notices. These documents can include a summons or subpoena if you are sued by someone else, a notice of tax lien filed against you by the IRS (Internal Revenue Service), or even an order to appear in court.

Registered agents also receive service of process from lawsuits: In the event that someone sues your company, it’s important for him or her to know where he/she can find you in order for any legal action to be taken against your company.

Open a Business Bank Account

Now that you have your business name, it’s time to open a business bank account.

• Get a Business Checking Account: You will need to open a checking account in order to receive funds from customers. This is typically called an “operating” or “business” checking account, which can be used for any type of income being generated by your company.
• Get a Business Credit Card: While most people think they need one card per person/company involved financially with running it daily operations there isn’t necessarily any requirement other than having one issued by whoever owns their assets (e., house or car title etc.).

Set Up Accounting

Your accounting system is a key component of your business. It’s how you get paid, keep track of expenses, and report to the government.

You can either do it yourself or hire someone to manage your books. If you choose the latter option, there are several factors to consider:

• How much work do I want my bookkeeper to do for me? You may be looking for someone who simply does basic bookkeeping services like reconciling bank accounts and keeping track of vendor payments.
• What type of services am I looking for? There are three main types: full service (all services mentioned above), payroll only (no income taxes), or just payroll management services alone without any tax preparation involved whatsoever – so if this sounds appealing then consider outsourcing all aspects except paying employees’ wages directly through payroll checks written out directly from them rather than having somebody else handle everything behind closed doors.

Protect Your Business With Insurance

Before you open your doors and invite customers in, you need to get some insurance coverage. You don’t want to run your business without adequate protection in place. Insurance will protect your business, its employees and its assets from a variety of risks.

Start by purchasing general liability insurance to cover injuries or damages caused by accidents on site. It also protects against third-party liability claims that may arise as a result of injuries or damages caused during an employee’s work performance or by products sold or services rendered at the facility (such as selling food).

Obtain Business Identifier Numbers

• What is a BIN?

A Business Identifier Number (BIN) is a unique numeric identifier assigned to every business by the Kansas Secretary of State’s office.

• Why do you need a BIN?

You will need to complete and submit:

• Form R-100, which requires your company name, address, and phone number;
• Form R-101, which requires the names of all owners or partners;

These forms must be accompanied by copies of identification for each owner or partner listed on them.

Takeaway

If you want to start your own business in Kansas, there are a few things you will need to do before opening the doors.

Conclusion

Starting a business can be exciting, but it’s also a lot of work. Make sure you have the right tools to get the job done and that you’re prepared for any challenges that might come along the way.