how-to-file-annual-report
How to File My Annual Report
To file your annual report through ZenBusiness, log in to your dashboard, go to the Compliance section, and place your annual report order when prompted. ZenBusiness handles the filing with your state and waives the service fee for Worry-Free Compliance subscribers — you only pay the state's filing fee.
Option 1: File Through ZenBusiness (Worry-Free Compliance)
With an active Worry-Free Compliance subscription:
- Log in at app.zenbusiness.com
- Click Compliance in the left navigation
- When your annual report deadline approaches, you'll see a prompt to place your order
- Confirm your business information — update anything that has changed (address, members, etc.)
- Pay the state filing fee (ZenBusiness waives our processing fee for WFC subscribers)
- ZenBusiness submits the filing to your state on your behalf
- You'll receive confirmation when the state accepts the report
No Worry-Free Compliance subscription? You can still order a one-time annual report filing from your dashboard under My Services → Add Services. Our standard service fee applies.
Option 2: File Directly With Your State
You can file your annual report yourself at no ZenBusiness charge — you'd only pay your state's filing fee. To file directly:
- Go to your state's Secretary of State website (search "[your state] Secretary of State annual report")
- Log in or create an account using your business's state ID number or EIN
- Find the annual report or periodic report section
- Confirm or update your business information
- Pay the state fee and submit
Most state websites accept payment by credit card. Processing is typically immediate or within 1–3 business days.
What Information You'll Need
Whether you file through ZenBusiness or directly, have this information ready:
- Your business legal name (exactly as registered)
- Your current principal business address
- Your registered agent name and address
- Names and addresses of all members, managers, or officers (varies by state)
- Your state filing number or EIN (to look up your record)
Most of this information is pre-filled by the state from their records. You're confirming it's still accurate or updating what's changed.
What Happens After Filing
Your state typically processes annual reports within a few business days to a few weeks, depending on the state. After acceptance:
- Your LLC is confirmed in good standing for another year
- The filing appears in your business's public record on the Secretary of State website
- ZenBusiness uploads a copy of the filing confirmation to your dashboard documents
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I file my annual report?
File as early as you can once the filing period opens — don't wait until the deadline. States sometimes have processing delays, and early filing gives you time to correct any issues before the deadline passes. See When Is My Annual Report Due? for your specific deadline.
What if my business information has changed since last year?
Update it on the annual report filing. The annual report is the standard mechanism for updating your registered address, membership, or other details with the state. Some changes (like a registered agent change or major amendments) may also require a separate filing — see What Is a Business Amendment?.
Do I need to include financial information in my annual report?
No. An LLC annual report is not a financial statement. It's a simple informational filing confirming your business is active and your contact information is current. You do not include revenue, expenses, or any financial data.
What does ZenBusiness charge to file my annual report?
Worry-Free Compliance subscribers: the state filing fee only (ZenBusiness waives the service fee). Without a subscription: the state fee plus ZenBusiness's service fee. The exact total is shown before you confirm. State fees range from $0 (Texas) to $300+ (Delaware) depending on your state and entity type.
I already filed my annual report myself. Do I need to do anything else in ZenBusiness?
If you filed directly with the state, you're all set — no action needed in your ZenBusiness dashboard. Your state's records will update automatically. If you have Worry-Free Compliance, let us know you filed independently so we can mark your compliance calendar accordingly.
Related Articles
- What Is an Annual Report?
- When Is My Annual Report Due?
- What Is Worry-Free Compliance?
- What Is a Business Amendment?
Still need help? Call (844) 493-6249, use live chat on your dashboard, or email support@zenbusiness.com.