Annual report filings are a critical compliance requirement for corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) operating in the United States. Failure to file on time or accurately can result in penalties, late fees, or even administrative dissolution of the business entity. This guide explains how annual reports work, who must file them, and how businesses can manage the process efficiently.
What Is an Annual Report Filing?
An annual report is a mandatory filing submitted to a state’s Secretary of State (or equivalent agency) to keep business information current. It is separate from federal or state tax returns and focuses on corporate governance and entity status rather than income reporting.
Annual reports confirm that a business is active and compliant with state regulations.
Who Must File Annual Reports?
Most U.S. states require the following entities to file annual (or biennial) reports:
- C-Corporations
- S-Corporations
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
- Professional Corporations (PCs) and PLLCs
Sole proprietorships and general partnerships typically do not have annual report requirements unless registered as formal entities.
Information Required in Annual Reports
Although requirements vary by state, annual reports generally include:
- Legal business name and entity type
- Principal business address
- Registered agent details
- Names and addresses of directors, officers, or members
- Authorized shares (for corporations)
- Confirmation of business activities
Some states also require disclosure of ownership percentages or NAICS business codes.
Filing Deadlines and Frequency
Annual report deadlines differ by state and entity type:
- Annual filings: Most states (e.g., California, New York, Florida)
- Biennial filings: Some states (e.g., Pennsylvania, Nevada)
Deadlines may be based on:
- The entity’s formation anniversary date
- A fixed calendar date (such as March 1 or June 30)
Missing deadlines can lead to late fees, loss of good standing, or suspension.
Filing Fees and State Variations
Filing fees range widely depending on the state and entity type:
- Low-cost states: $10–$50
- Mid-range states: $50–$150
- High-cost states (e.g., California, New York): $200 or more
Additional fees may apply for expedited processing or late submissions.
Common Mistakes in Annual Report Filings
Businesses often encounter compliance issues due to:
- Missed filing deadlines
- Incorrect registered agent information
- Failure to update ownership or management changes
- Filing in the wrong state
- Assuming tax returns replace annual reports
These errors can trigger penalties or administrative dissolution.
Multi-State Businesses and Foreign Entities
Companies operating outside their state of formation must file annual reports in:
- The state of incorporation (domestic filing)
- Each state where the business is foreign-qualified
Each state has separate deadlines and filing fees, increasing compliance complexity.
Example: LLC Annual Report Compliance
Scenario:
An LLC formed in Delaware operates in Texas and California.
- Delaware: Annual report + franchise tax
- Texas: Periodic Information Report
- California: Statement of Information
Each filing has different deadlines, forms, and fees.
Best Practices for Managing Annual Reports
To stay compliant:
- Maintain a compliance calendar
- Track state-specific deadlines
- Keep registered agent information current
- Update ownership and management changes promptly
- Retain confirmation receipts and filings
Using professional compliance support reduces risk and administrative burden.
How Trusty Accounts Can Help
Trusty Accounts provides end-to-end annual report compliance services, including:
- State-specific annual and biennial filings
- Registered agent coordination
- Multi-state compliance management
- Deadline tracking and reminders
- Ongoing business compliance support
Our team ensures your corporation or LLC remains in good standing across all jurisdictions.
Stay Compliant. Stay Protected.
Proper annual report management protects your business status, credibility, and ability to operate without interruption.