How to Get Your Certificate
You can obtain a California certificate of good standing by remaining compliant with state regulations and ordering a certificate via mail, in person, or online. Banks, insurance companies, and other states often require this certificate to do business.
Steps to Obtain a Certificate:
- Order a Certificate of Good Standing
- Submit payment (Fees range from free to $50 depending on the state)
Maintaining compliance involves keeping permits, licenses, fees, and taxes current. Since qualifications fluctuate, request an updated certificate when needed. Check compliance status online for free.
The certificate does not expire, and its validity and processing times vary by state. In California, processing takes one to three days.
Processing Times and Fees
The certificate confirms lawful company creation and proper maintenance, requiring businesses to stay current on their filings, licensing fees, and taxes to demonstrate legitimacy.
If filed in person, you should receive your certificate within the next business day. Mail requests usually take one to two days, with the fee being $5 by mail or $15 in person.
Legal Requirement and Business Benefits
While California businesses are not legally required to obtain a certificate of status, obtaining one can be crucial for conducting business outside of California or opening business bank accounts.
Easy Online Application:
Follow these steps with the Secretary of State’s online Bizfile tool:
- Visit Bizfile and click "Certificate of Status"
- Log in or sign up
- Submit the online form and pay the fee
- Receive the certificate via email or mail
This certificate serves as proof to banks, vendors, and government agencies that a business is registered and compliant with state laws, confirming the company’s legal legitimacy to operate in California.