Iowa Biennial Report: Deadlines, Fees and How to File

Iowa uses a two year filing rhythm. Instead of annual reports, entities submit a Biennial Report to the Secretary of State during a fixed January 1st to April 1st window in alternating years. Filing on time keeps your record current and protects good standing.

Who files and when
Iowa splits filers by entity type and year. The
deadline is April 1st of the applicable year, with the
window opening January 1st.
  • Even years: Domestic and foreign profit corporations
  • Odd years: Domestic and foreign LLCs, LLPs, and nonprofit corporations
  • First filing: Due in the next applicable cycle. For example, a corporation formed in 2025 files January 1st to April 1st of 2026.
  • No extensions: The April 1st cutoff is firm.
Fees
  • Corporations: $60 (online or paper)
  • LLCs and LLPs: $30 online, $45 paper
  • Nonprofits: $0
  • Foreign entities: Same schedule and fees as domestic peers
What the report does
The filing confirms and updates your public record so
banks, partners, and agencies can rely on accurate
information. It is Iowa’s main mechanism for maintaining
legal status and transparency
Information you will need
  • Legal name and Iowa filing number
  • Principal office address
  • Registered agent name and Iowa street address
  • Directors and officers for corporations, or members and managers for LLCs
  • Authorized shares and capital structure for corporations
  • Current business activity description

    How to file

    Step 1

    Confirm your year.
    Even year for corporations,
    odd year for LLCs, LLPs,
    and nonprofits.

    Step 3

    Choose method.
    Use Iowa’s Fast Track Filing
    system for speed and lower
    fees where applicable,
    or file by paper.

    Step 5

    Save proof.
    Keep the confirmation
    and check status in the state database.
    Note: You cannot file before
    January 1st of your filing year.

    Step 2

    Gather details. Verify officers
    or members, addresses, and
    agent information.

    Step 4

    Pay and submit. Credit card or
    bank transfer online; check or
    money order for paper.

    Step 1

    Confirm your year. Even year for corporations, odd year for LLCs, LLPs, and nonprofits..

    Step 2

    Gather details. Verify officers or members, addresses, and agent information.

    Step 3

    Choose method. Use Iowa’s Fast Track Filing system for speed and lower fees where applicable, or file by paper.

    Step 4

    Pay and submit. Credit card or bank transfer online; check or money order for paper.

    Step 5

    Save proof.
    Keep the confirmation and check status in the state database.
    Note: You cannot file before January 1st of your filing year.

    Consequences of missing April 1st
    Falling behind creates immediate risk and costs.
    • Loss of good standing and blocks on other state filings
    • Administrative dissolution proceedings if the lapse continues
    • Banking, licensing, contract and insurance complications
    Reinstatement requires filing all delinquent reports, paying
    fees and penalties, and submitting a reinstatement
    application. Processing can take time, so filing within the
    window is the least costly option.
    Common
    mistakes to avoid
    • Filing in the wrong year (even vs. odd)
    • Using outdated addresses or registered agent details
    • Name mismatches with the state’s records
    • Paying the wrong fee or using a disallowed payment method
    • Waiting until the last day and missing the submission cut

    How do I know my year

    Corporations file in even years. LLCs, LLPs, and nonprofits file in odd years. Foreign entities follow the same rule as domestic

    Can I file early

    Only within the window. Submissions are accepted January 1 through April 1 of your filing year.

    What are the fees

    Corporations $60. LLCs and LLPs $30 online or $45 paper. Nonprofits $0.

    Can I update my registered agent in the report

    Yes. The agent must have an Iowa street address and agree to serve.

    How do I verify my filing

    Online filers receive confirmation immediately. You can also check status in Iowa’s business entity search.

    Keep your Iowa
    filing on schedule

    Palm can prepare and submit your Biennial Report, manage
    reminders, and keep registered agent details current so your
    entity stays in good standing.
    Start your filing now