FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams is warning business owners across the state to beware of predatory solicitation letters offering to file annual reports for inflated fees as the June 30 deadline approaches.

Scammers are sending letters offering to file annual reports for fees upwards of $160, when the actual state filing fee is only $15. Some solicitations quote a total of $175, which matches the limited liability entity tax (LLET) that most businesses pay separately to the Department of Revenue, a confusing tactic that may trick unsuspecting owners into thinking the fee is legitimate.

The scheme particularly targets small businesses unfamiliar with the annual report filing process. "Don't get hustled," Adams said. "File your annual business report directly with the Secretary of State, and pay only $15."

It remains unclear whether these third parties even file the reports for the fees they charge. Business owners can verify whether their annual report has been officially filed by searching their business information online through the Secretary of State's website.

If they have paid for services they did not receive, officials recommend filing a dispute with their bank and reporting the incident to local law enforcement.

Annual reports must be filed between January 1 and June 30 each year and can be submitted online or by mail for $15. All businesses conducting business in Kentucky, except sole proprietorships, are required to file annually to maintain their status and provide accurate information to the state.