How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing for a Louisiana LLC

If you formed your LLC in Louisiana and need to provide proof of your LLC’s good standing, then you’ll need to obtain a “Certificate of Good Standing” from the Louisiana Secretary of State.

The cost of a Certificate of Good Standing from the Louisiana Secretary of State is $20. Processing takes up to 5 business days.

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.

Read this page to learn how to obtain proof of Good Standing for a Louisiana LLC.

What is a Louisiana Certificate of Good Standing?

A Louisiana Certificate of Good Standing, also known as a “Certificate of Existence” or “Certificate of Authorization,” is an official document issued by the Louisiana Secretary of State that serves as proof that your LLC has complied with all filing and tax requirements in the state, meaning it is currently in good standing.

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

The best way to obtain a Certificate of Good Standing for your Louisiana LLC is online through the Secretary of State’s website:

Step 1. Using the Louisiana Secretary of State Business Search Tool, look up your LLC. You’ll be able to verify here for free that your LLC is in good standing.

Step 2. Click “Buy Certificates” and then select “Certificate of Good Standing” from the menu. Include payment for the $20 fee with your application (credit card payments are accepted).

Step 3. The Secretary of State will review your application and issue the Certificate of Good Standing within 5 business days.

Step 4. You can pick up the certificate in person or have it mailed to you via first-class mail.

Reasons a Louisiana LLC Might Fail to Be in Good Standing

If your LLC is not in good standing with the Louisiana Secretary of State, it may be because you failed to:

  • File an annual report.
  • Pay taxes or fees owed.
  • Comply with other state regulations and requirements related to LLCs.

How to Restore Good Standing to an LLC in Louisiana

If your LLC has lost its good standing, you must take care of any past-due filings and/or fees to restore good standing.

To do this:

1. Go to the Louisiana Secretary of State Business Search Tool, look up your LLC, and click on the name to view the company’s details.

2. From the details page select the “Restore” button.

3. If you owe any fees or back taxes, you will need to pay them before your LLC can be restored to good standing. You can make a payment online with a credit card (fees apply).

4. Once your payment has been processed, the Secretary of State will review your application and restore your LLC to good standing.

5. You can then obtain a Certificate of Good Standing confirming that your LLC is back in good standing with the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost for a Certificate of Good Standing is $20.

Processing takes up to 5 business days. However, if you need your certificate immediately you can pick it up in person at the Secretary of State’s office.

If your LLC is not in good standing, then you will need to take care of any past-due filings and/or fees owed to restore good standing. You can make a payment online with a credit card (fees apply). Once your payment has been processed and your LLC is back in good standing, you can obtain a Certificate of Good Standing.

The Certificate includes the name of the LLC, its entity type, and the date of incorporation. It also includes an affidavit from the Secretary of State confirming that the LLC is in good standing and has complied with all state filing and tax requirements. The Certificate will also include a raised seal or stamp from the Louisiana Secretary of State.

No, the Louisiana Secretary of State only provides a paper or physical copy of the certificate. You cannot obtain a digital or electronic version.