A Certificate of Good Standing is one of the most frequently requested business documents in the United States. Whether you’re expanding your business, applying for financing, or renewing a license, this certificate proves that your company is legally registered and compliant with all state requirements.
Understanding how to obtain it in your state ensures that your business remains in good legal and operational standing whenever proof is required.
What Is a Certificate of Good Standing?
A Certificate of Good Standing (sometimes called a Certificate of Existence, Certificate of Status, or Letter of Good Standing) is an official document issued by the Secretary of State or equivalent state agency.
It verifies that your company:
- Has properly filed all annual reports
- Paid all required state fees and taxes
- Is authorized to operate and remains in active status
This certificate confirms that your business exists legally and is in compliance with all relevant state laws.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing
The process of obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing is similar across states, but the exact steps and fees may vary. Below is a general guide that applies to most U.S. jurisdictions.
Step 1: Verify That Your Business Is in Compliance
Before requesting your certificate, ensure that your business is in good standing with your state. That means:
- All annual reports are filed and current
- Franchise taxes and state fees are paid
- No outstanding penalties or administrative issues exist
You can check your status by searching your company name on your state’s business entity search portal, usually available on the Secretary of State’s website.
Step 2: Locate Your State’s Business Filing Agency
Each state issues Certificates of Good Standing through a designated agency—typically the Secretary of State, Department of Commerce, or Division of Corporations.
For example:
- California – California Secretary of State, Business Programs Division
- Delaware – Delaware Division of Corporations
- Florida – Division of Corporations (Sunbiz.org)
- Georgia – Georgia Secretary of State
- Illinois – Illinois Secretary of State
- Nevada – Nevada Secretary of State
- New Jersey – New Jersey Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services
- New York – Department of State, Division of Corporations
- North Carolina – North Carolina Secretary of State
- Ohio – Ohio Secretary of State
- Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania Department of State
- Texas – Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
Visit your state’s official business services website to access the online request form.
Step 3: Submit a Certificate Request
Most states allow you to request a Certificate of Good Standing online, by mail, or in person.
You will typically need to provide:
- The legal name of your business entity
- Its registration or charter number (if available)
- Your contact information
- Payment of the applicable state fee
Online applications are often processed instantly, while mailed or in-person requests may take a few business days.
Step 4: Pay the Applicable Fee
The cost of obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing varies by state, usually ranging from $5 to $50. Some states offer expedited or certified copies for an additional fee. Payments can generally be made online by credit card or through state payment portals.
Step 5: Receive Your Certificate
Once your request is processed, you’ll receive your Certificate of Good Standing electronically or by mail.
Electronic versions are widely accepted and can be printed for official use. However, some banks, government agencies, or foreign states may require a physical or notarized copy.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certificate of Good Standing?
- Online requests: Usually processed instantly or within 1 business day
- Mail requests: Typically take 3–10 business days, depending on the state
- Expedited processing: Available in most states for an additional fee
Always plan ahead, especially if the certificate is required for time-sensitive transactions like financing, mergers, or interstate registration.
How Long Is a Certificate of Good Standing Valid?
Most Certificates of Good Standing are valid for 60 to 90 days from the date of issue.
Because of this limited validity period, many institutions—such as banks, investors, and government agencies—require a recently issued certificate when conducting due diligence or approving applications.
What to Do If Your Business Is Not in Good Standing
If your business has fallen out of compliance, you’ll need to correct the issues before obtaining your certificate. Common steps include:
- Filing missing annual reports
- Paying overdue state fees or taxes
- Submitting a reinstatement application if the business was administratively dissolved
Once your company’s records are up to date, you can request your Certificate of Good Standing immediately.
Why Use an Online Service to Order Your Certificate
While you can obtain your certificate directly from your state’s office, many business owners prefer to use a trusted online filing service for convenience.
These services can:
- Handle multiple state requests at once
- Provide same-day electronic delivery
- Track compliance deadlines and renewals
- Simplify paperwork for busy business owners
Ordering through a reliable online provider saves time, reduces administrative work, and ensures accuracy when you need official documentation fast.
Key Takeaways
A Certificate of Good Standing is more than a formality—it’s a proof of compliance that can affect your ability to operate, expand, or secure financing.
To stay prepared:
- Keep your business filings up to date
- Verify your standing before major transactions
- Order your certificate through a secure online portal when needed
Maintaining good standing ensures your business remains recognized, trustworthy, and ready for growth opportunities in any state.
