As we kick off a new year, Pennsylvania business owners should be aware of an important new annual reporting requirement that has gone into effect. Whether you operate a corporation, LLC, or nonprofit organization, you’ll need to comply with this filing obligation to remain in good standing with the state.
What’s Changing?
Under a law enacted during former Governor Wolf’s administration, nearly all business entities—including nonprofits—must submit an annual report to the Pennsylvania Department of State. This report will include key details such as the names of the principal officers of the entity.
This state-level requirement is entirely separate from the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) filings required under federal law, so businesses will need to ensure compliance with both.
Previously, Pennsylvania required businesses to file a Decennial Report every ten years, but this new annual reporting system replaces that process while also expanding the information businesses must disclose.
Who Needs to File and When?
To ease the transition, Pennsylvania has implemented a staggered deadline system based on business type:
- Corporations (including both for-profits and nonprofits): Due by June 30, 2025
- Limited Liability Companies (LLCs): Due by September 30, 2025
- Limited Partnerships, LLPs, Business Trusts, and Professional Associations: Due by December 31, 2025
What Happens If You Don’t File?
Unlike the previous system, failing to submit this report could lead to serious consequences, including the loss of your entity’s ability to legally operate in Pennsylvania. While the state will provide warnings as businesses adjust to the new rule, forfeiture penalties may still apply—though Pennsylvania has indicated there may be opportunities to defer these penalties in certain cases of non-compliance.
What You Should Do Now
Business owners should take proactive steps to ensure they meet their filing deadline. Whether you handle compliance in-house or through a professional, marking your calendar and preparing the necessary information now can help prevent last-minute issues.
If you have any questions about how this new requirement applies to your business, consulting with a legal or business professional can help ensure you remain in compliance and avoid potential penalties.”
