A NOTE FROM FRANCES
Corporate Operations Manager
I wanted to take a moment to share some important news about changes coming to Delaware’s trade name (DBA) registration process. Starting February 2, 2026, Delaware will introduce a new system designed to simplify filings and create a centralized database. While these updates will make things easier in the long run, they also bring a few new steps to keep in mind.
If you already have a trade name registered with the Delaware courts, it will remain valid—and there is no requirement to re-register at this time. While re-registration is not required, it is encouraged because it offers several benefits, including:
- Ability to amend your DBA
- Access to official trade name certificates
- Statewide visibility in one searchable database
Beginning February 2, all new trade name certificates will be issued by the Delaware Division of Revenue (DOR). After that date, the courts will no longer issue certificates. To re-register an existing trade name, you’ll need your court-issued file number and a valid Delaware business license. For new trade names, your DBA must appear in the DOR registry and be linked to a valid Delaware business license.
If your business is formed in Delaware but doesn’t operate there, you’ll be glad to know there’s a special license option that allows trade name registration without triggering gross receipts or income tax obligations.
One important note: DBA registration does not guarantee name exclusivity. Under the new system, multiple businesses can register and use the same trade name.
Our team is here to make this transition as smooth as possible. Whether you’re registering a new DBA or re-registering under the updated system, we’ll guide you every step of the way. If you have questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at parasec@parasec.com.
Industry News
Delaware: Annual Reports Due March 1st
All active domestic corporations registered in Delaware are required to file their annual report and pay franchise taxes for the previous year no later than March 1st. Both the filing and payment must be completed electronically. Failure to meet this deadline can result in a $200 penalty and an interest charge of 1.5% per month on any unpaid balance. These penalties can add up quickly, so timely compliance is essential to maintain your good standing.
If you need assistance navigating the filing process or ensuring accurate payment of taxes and fees, our experienced compliance specialists are here to help. Contact us at paracorp@myparacorp.com for personalized support.
Indiana: Updated Business Filing Rules
Effective January 1, 2026, Indiana implemented changes under House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1593 to modernize filings and enhance transparency. The law redefines “principal office” as the usual place of business, headquarters, or another office where a governing person of the entity is commonly present. It also introduces a new chapter establishing registration and compliance requirements for Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies (CMRA) and adds provisions for fully virtual businesses. Additional updates include identity verification for biennial report filers and expanded reinstatement options for entities dissolved for more than five years. These changes aim to reduce fraud, improve accountability, and provide greater flexibility for businesses operating without a physical location. To read the bill in its entirety, go here.
New York: LLC Transparency — Veto of S.8432 Leaves Limited Scope
On December 19, 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul vetoed Senate Bill S.8432, which would have broadened New York’s LLC Transparency Act (NYLTA). As a result, when the NYLTA took effect on January 1, 2026, it remained aligned with the federal Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) definitions of “reporting company” and “beneficial owner.”
In March 2025, FinCEN revised those rules, exempting domestic entities and narrowing the definition of “reporting company” to only foreign entities registered in the U.S. As a result, under the NYLTA’s current structure:
- Only foreign LLCs doing business in New York must comply.
- Domestic LLCs (those formed in New York or any other U.S. state) are exempt.
Here are the filing deadlines for foreign LLCs:
- Foreign LLCs already registered in New York before January 1, 2026 must file their initial beneficial ownership disclosure (BOD) statement within one year of the NYLTA taking effect (i.e., by January 1, 2027).
- Foreign LLCs registering on or after January 1, 2026 must file their initial BOD statement within 30 days of registration.
- The same deadlines apply for foreign LLCs seeking an exemption attestation:
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- Exempt foreign LLCs registered before January 1, 2026: File exemption attestation by January 1, 2027.
- Exempt foreign LLCs registering on or after January 1, 2026: File attestation within 30 days of registration.
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- Both foreign LLCs and exempt foreign LLCs must file initial and annual statements.
The NY Department of State has released its online filing system, detailed filing instructions, and an FAQ section—find it all here.
Pennsylvania: Annual Report Filing Window Now Open
The Pennsylvania Department of State’s annual report filing window is now open for the second year under this requirement. Businesses will receive deadline notifications via email (if provided) and postcard to help ensure timely compliance. Filing windows vary by entity type:
- Corporations (Business & Nonprofit): January 1 – June 30
- LLCs: January 1 – September 30
- Other Entities (LPs, LLPs, Business Trusts, Professional Associations): January 1 – December 31
Business owners and entity representatives should review their deadlines and file early to avoid penalties or administrative dissolution. Need help? Our annual report specialists can guide you through the process and ensure timely filing. Contact annualreports@myparacorp.com to get started today.
Rhode Island: Annual Report Filing Period Approaches
Businesses registered in Rhode Island—including LLCs, corporations, partnerships, and nonprofit corporations—are required to submit an annual report beginning the calendar year after formation or registration with the state. The filing window for 2026 annual reports opens on February 1, 2026, and closes on May 1, 2026. Timely filing is essential to maintain good standing and avoid potential penalties or administrative dissolution.
Please note that domestic benefit corporations have a separate requirement: they must file their annual report within 120 days following the end of their fiscal year.
If you have questions about the process or need assistance with filing, consider working with a trusted compliance partner to ensure accuracy and on-time submission.
Nationwide: Anticipate Possible Delays Due to Severe Weather
During the winter months, severe weather conditions can lead to unexpected office closures, slower processing times, and disruptions in shipping schedules across multiple states. These delays often occur without warning and can impact the timely handling of filings and document retrieval.
To minimize the risk of missed deadlines or postponed transactions, we strongly recommend submitting time-sensitive documents well in advance of any critical dates. Proactive planning is the best way to avoid complications caused by weather-related interruptions.
If you need assistance with filing and retrieving documents, or navigating potential delays, please reach out to our team at parasec@parasec.com. We’re here to help ensure your compliance needs are met, even during challenging conditions.
Disclaimer: This newsletter provides brief summaries of the included bills, many of which are comprehensive and nuanced. These overviews are not intended to capture all potentially relevant provisions. For complete and up-to-date information, please refer to the full text of each bill on the appropriate state legislative website.
Service Spotlight
Nationwide Document Retrieval Made Easy
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What Can We Retrieve?
- Certificates of Good Standing
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- Annual reports
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…and more! If it’s filed somewhere, chances are we can find it.
If the document you need isn’t listed above, don’t worry—give us a call and we still might be able to work our magic. Reach out to us at parasec@parasec.com—and let our experts do the legwork for you!
Parasec News
Happy Retirement, Kevin!
After 28 amazing years with Parasec, our very own Kevin Guse, Correspondent Relations Specialist, is heading into retirement!
Kevin joined the team back in 1997, and since then, he’s been the ultimate connector—building relationships, solving problems, and making friends everywhere he goes. His honesty, dedication, and legendary customer service have set the gold standard for all of us.
When asked to reflect on his career, Kevin intimated:
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is developing relationships with co-workers and agents that have blossomed into lasting friendships throughout the years.”
We couldn’t agree more! Kevin’s friendly, gregarious personality has made him a joy to work with and an unforgettable part of our story.
Please join us in raising a virtual toast to Kevin! Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement! We’ll miss you, but we know you’ll make the most of this exciting new chapter.
Want to send Kevin a personalized message? Use our “Contact Us” form and we’ll be sure to pass it along to him!
Client Testimonial
“I have used Parasec for over 20 years. Every time I call, there is always a helpful person to assist me with my needs, whether it is obtaining a filed document, acting as agent for service of process, and so forth. The service is always prompt and reasonably priced.” ~ Gordon M., Attorney