Starting in 2025, Pennsylvania businesses are required to file an Annual Report for the first time. This new requirement is part of a state effort to maintain accurate business records and ensure transparency for companies operating within the Commonwealth.
Why This Matters
Filing your Annual Report keeps your business compliant with state laws. It confirms your business is active and ensures your critical information, such as your registered office address and governance, is up to date in state records. Missing the deadline could result in penalties or even administrative dissolution of your business.
Key Dates
The deadline for filing your Annual Report depends on your business type:
- Corporations (for-profit and non-profit): Must file by June 30, 2025.
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): Must file by September 30, 2025.
Make sure to note these deadlines and plan ahead to avoid last-minute complications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Annual Report
Follow these steps to complete your filing with ease:
Step 1: Access the Filing Website
- Visit file.dos.pa.gov.
- Click the Login button at the top-right corner.
Step 2: Log in to the Business Hub
- Go to hub.business.pa.gov.
- Log in with your username and password.
- New users: Create an account by clicking Register.
- If you already have a Keystone Login from another Pennsylvania system, use that to log in.
Step 3: Open Business Filing Services
- Once logged in, click on the Business Filing Services Logo.
Step 4: Search for Your Business
- Select the Search tab from the left-hand panel.
- Enter your business/association name in the search bar and press the search icon.
- Select your business from the search results and click File Annual Report.
Step 5: Complete the Annual Report Form
- The form will populate with your existing business information.
- To receive email notifications about Annual Reports, include a valid email address.
- Click Next Step.
Step 6: Verify Registered Office Information
- Review your registered office address or commercial registered office provider details.
- Indicate whether you want to change this information.
- Click Next Step.
Step 7: Update Principal Office Address
- Review and edit your principal office address if necessary.
- Click Next Step.
Step 8: Update Governor (Owner or Responsible Party) Information
- Ensure at least one governor’s name is listed.
- Add or delete governors as needed.
- Click Next Step.
Step 9: Update Principal Officer Information (if applicable)
- For Corporations, add or delete principal officers of the company, as required.
- Click Next Step.
Step 10: Review Fees
- Confirm the applicable processing fee:
- For-profit businesses: $7.00
- Non-profits/not-for-profits: No fee
- Click Next Step.
Step 11: Confirm Information
- Review all information on the form for accuracy.
- Click Next Step.
Step 12: Finalize and Submit
- Review declarations, check the confirmation box, and electronically sign the report.
- Include the title of the signatory and select today’s date.
- Click File Online.
Step 13: Make Payment
- Enter your payment details (if applicable). Once payment is approved, a confirmation screen will appear.
- For non-profits, this step is skipped, and the confirmation screen will appear immediately.
Step 14: Download Your Approved Filing
- Once processed, navigate to the Form tab to view and download your approved Annual Report filing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Annual Report
The Whole Process in Two GIFs!
Filing your Annual Report is so easy, I was able to demonstrate the entire process in just two GIFs:
- GIF 1 covers Steps 1–7: Logging in, finding your business, and completing the initial form.
- GIF 2 covers Steps 8–12: Verifying details, updating information, and submitting your report.
Once you’ve watched these, you’ll be ready to go!
Pro Tips for a Smooth Filing Process
Plan ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute. Filing early reduces stress and ensures compliance.
Keep records updated: Use this opportunity to review all your business details and make necessary updates.
Stay informed: Opt in for email notifications to get reminders about filing deadlines in the future.
By staying on top of this new requirement, you can ensure your business remains compliant and in good standing with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.