How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in Your State
A Certificate of Good Standing, sometimes called Certificate of Existence or Certificate of Fact, is a document issued by the Secretary of State (or equivalent) The Certificate of Good Standing proves that a business is active and approved to do business in that state. A Certificate of Good Standing is often required when registering to do business in another state, opening a bank account, applying for business insurance, and when selling a business.
Each state’s Certificate of Good Standing requirements are slightly different, so we’ve created instructions on how to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in all 50 states, as well as links to each Secretary of State (or equivalent) website where you can apply for one directly.
Pick Your State Below
What are the Requirements of a Certificate of Good Standing?
Though each state has slightly different processes for applying for a Certificate of Good Standing, in general you’ll need to make sure:
- Your Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation is in order and filed with the state.
- All annual fees or reports have been filed and are in order.
- Your LLC is approved to conduct business with your Secretary of State.
Explanation of a Certificate of Good Standing
A certificate of good standing is a document that confirms an LLC has met all registration requirements and is in compliance with state laws. It is often requested by banks or other businesses when conducting transactions with that company, as confirmation that the company is legitimate.
It’s important to know your state’s certificate of good standing requirements so you can get your certificate as quickly and efficiently as possible. Knowing the application process and requirements will help ensure that you receive the certificate in a timely manner.
Benefits of Getting a Certificate of Good Standing
There are many benefits to having a certificate of good standing:
- Ensuring legal compliance: A certificate of good standing is proof that an LLC has met all the registration requirements and is in good standing with the state. This helps protect the company from potential liabilities or other legal issues.
- Establishing credibility: A certificate of good standing is a sign that the company has taken all necessary steps to ensure it meets state requirements and is a legitimate business entity. This can be beneficial when dealing with potential investors, banks, or other businesses.
- Facilitating transactions: Many businesses require certificates of good standing documents before they will conduct any transactions with another company.
How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing From Your Secretary of State
Each state has a different certificate of good standing process and associated fees. Choose your state from the list above to learn the steps required in your specific state.
FAQs
The process of obtaining a certificate of good standing is different depending on the state, but generally involves requesting the certificate from the Secretary of State or equivalent office. You may need to provide proof of formation and other documentation, as well as pay any applicable fees.
Many states offer an online certificate of good standing applications.
The certificate of good standing requirements for each state can be found on that state’s Secretary of State office or equivalent website.
A certificate of good standing is a document that confirms an LLC has met all registration requirements and is in compliance with state laws. It can be used to establish credibility, facilitate transactions, and ensure legal compliance.
The amount of time it takes to receive a certificate of good standing varies depending on the state, but is often available immediately, though can sometimes take a few weeks by mail.
The IRS does not provide certificates of good standing. Your LLC must register with the state and meet all requirements in order to obtain a certificate of good standing from the Secretary of State or equivalent office in your LLC’s state.
The cost of obtaining a certificate of good standing depends on the state. Many states offer online applications, in which case you may need to pay a fee for the certificate. It is important to check with your Secretary of State or equivalent office to find out what fees apply in your state.