How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing for an Illinois LLC

If you formed your LLC in Illinois and need to provide proof of your LLC’s good standing, then you’ll need to obtain a “Certificate of Good Standing” from the Illinois Secretary of State. Read this page to learn how to obtain proof of Good Standing for an Illinois LLC.

The cost of a Certificate of Good Standing from the Illinois Secretary of State is $25. The certificate is available to print immediately.

Providing proof of good standing for an LLC may be required when:

  • Registering an LLC in a state other than the one it was formed in.
  • Applying for loans.
  • Getting business insurance.
  • Opening a business bank account.

What is an Illinois Certificate of Good Standing?

A Certificate of Good Standing is an official document issued by the Secretary of State that confirms that your LLC has been registered with the state and is in good standing. The certificate includes basic information about your LLC and verifies that all taxes, filing fees, and other obligations have been met.

How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing From the Illinois Secretary of State

The best way to get a Certificate of Good Standing from the Illinois Secretary is online through the state’s website.

Step 1.  Visit the Illinois Secretary of State and select “Business Services” from the main menu.

Step 2. Select “Certificates of Status/Good Standing” from the Business Service menu.

Step 3. Enter your LLC name in the search box and click “Search” to verify that your LLC is in good standing.

Step 4. Select the “Order Certificate” option, then enter your payment information and click “Submit” to order the certificate.

Step 5. When you have completed your payment, you will be able to view and print your certificate of good standing immediately.

Step 6. You can also request a Certificate of Good Standing by mail or fax. To do so, download and complete the Certificate of Good Standing Request Form and submit it to the Illinois Secretary of State with payment.

Your Certificate of Good Standing from the Illinois Secretary of State is valid for 60 days after issuance. You will need to obtain a new certificate if you need one beyond that time.

Reasons an Illinois LLC Might Fail to Be in Good Standing

An LLC may fail to be in good standing if the LLC has:

  • Failed to file an annual report.
  • Not paid registration fees or taxes.
  • Left the registered agent off of official documents.

If your LLC is not in good standing, you will need to take action before requesting a certificate.

How to Restore Good Standing to an LLC in Illinois That has Lost it

If your LLC has failed to meet its filing and registration requirements, you must take action to restore its good standing.

Step 1. File any outstanding annual reports with the Secretary of State.

Step 2. Pay all registration fees and taxes that are due.

Step 3. Correct any inaccurate or incomplete information on official documents, such as the registered agent.

Step 4. Once all requirements have been met and the LLC is in good standing, you can request a Certificate of Good Standing from the Illinois Secretary of State.

Frequently Asked Question

The certificate is available to print immediately after you have completed your payment. However, if you request a certificate by mail or fax, processing time can vary.

No additional documents are required. You simply need to fill out the Certificate of Good Standing request form and submit it with payment.

The certificate is valid for 60 days after issuance. After that, you must obtain a new certificate.

Yes, it is possible to transfer an LLC from one state to another. You will need to complete the appropriate paperwork and submit it with the relevant fees in order for the transfer to be approved. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing from the original state before transferring your LLC.

Yes, for an LLC to maintain active status and remain registered with the Illinois Secretary of State, it must be in good standing.