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Kentucky Business Tax Deadlines (2026)

Next: June 15, 2026 — Federal & Kentucky Q2 Estimated Tax Payment

Next Deadline: June 15, 2026 — Federal & Kentucky Q2 Estimated Tax Payment

Federal Tax Deadlines (2026)

FormWho FilesDue DateExtension Deadline
Form 1040 (Schedule C)Sole proprietorsApril 15October 15
Form 1065Partnerships, Multi-member LLCsMarch 15September 15
Form 1120-SS-CorporationsMarch 15September 15
Form 1120C-CorporationsApril 15October 15
Form 990NonprofitsMay 15November 15
Estimated Taxes (Q1)AllApril 15
Estimated Taxes (Q2)AllJune 15
Estimated Taxes (Q3)AllSeptember 15
Estimated Taxes (Q4)AllJanuary 15, 2027

Kentucky State Tax Deadlines (2026)

Tax TypeDue DateForm/FilingNotes
Individual Income TaxApril 15Form 740Flat 4% rate
Corporate Income TaxApril 15Form 720Flat 5% rate
Limited Liability Entity Tax (LLET)April 15Filed with Form 720/720S/765Based on gross receipts or gross profits
S-Corp ReturnMarch 15Form 720SPass-through + LLET
Partnership ReturnMarch 15Form 765Pass-through + LLET
Sales Tax (Monthly)20th of following monthVia Kentucky TAPSState rate 6%
Withholding Tax (Monthly/Quarterly)Varies by payrollForm K-1EEmployers
Annual ReportJune 30Filed with Secretary of State$15 fee
Estimated Income Tax (Q1)April 15Form 740-ES / 720-ES
Estimated Income Tax (Q2)June 15Form 740-ES / 720-ES
Estimated Income Tax (Q3)September 15Form 740-ES / 720-ES
Estimated Income Tax (Q4)January 15, 2027Form 740-ES / 720-ES

Quarterly Estimated Tax Deadlines in Kentucky

Kentucky follows the federal estimated tax payment schedule:

  • Q1: April 15, 2026
  • Q2: June 15, 2026
  • Q3: September 15, 2026
  • Q4: January 15, 2027
  • Estimated payments are required if you expect to owe $500 or more in Kentucky income tax.

    Kentucky-Specific Tax Requirements

    Kentucky has a flat individual income tax rate of 4% and a flat corporate income tax rate of 5%. The state also imposes a unique Limited Liability Entity Tax (LLET) on corporations, LLCs, S-corps, partnerships, and LLPs. The LLET is calculated as the lesser of 0.095% of gross receipts or 0.75% of gross profits, with a minimum tax of $175. The LLET can be credited against income tax owed, but the minimum $175 must be paid regardless.

    Kentucky's state sales tax rate is 6%, uniform statewide with no local sales taxes. This simplifies compliance for businesses operating across the state. Kentucky expanded its sales tax base in recent years to include more services (vehicle repair, laundry, janitorial, etc.). The economic nexus threshold for remote sellers is $100,000 in sales or 200 transactions.

    Annual reports are due June 30 and filed with the Kentucky Secretary of State for a $15 fee. Kentucky requires employers to withhold state income tax. Some cities and counties in Kentucky also levy local occupational license taxes (similar to a local income tax), which businesses must track separately. Louisville and Lexington both have notable local taxes.

    What Happens If You Miss a Kentucky Tax Deadline?

  • Late filing penalty: 2% per month of unpaid tax, up to 20%
  • Late payment penalty: Included in the late filing calculation
  • Interest rate: Adjusted annually; approximately 5% per year (federal short-term rate + 2%)
  • How to file for an extension: File Form 40A102 for an automatic 6-month extension. Kentucky also honors a filed federal extension. At least 75% of the tax liability must be paid by the original due date.
  • Kentucky Department of Revenue

  • Website: https://revenue.ky.gov
  • Phone: (502) 564-4581
  • Online Filing: https://tax.ky.gov
  • Get Your Books Ready Before Tax Season

    Kentucky's LLET adds a layer of complexity since it's based on gross receipts or profits, not just net income. Clean books ensure you calculate the right amount and properly credit it against your income tax.

    > Books behind before a deadline? Ketchup catches up your QuickBooks in 3–7 business days — so you file on time with clean books. Get your price →

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