What is a Certificate of Good Standing?
A certificate of good standing certifies that a company is properly registered with the state, is up to date on all state registration fees and required document filings, and is legally permitted to engage in business activities in the state. It acts as proof that the business has been following all requirements and is in “good standing” with the state it does business in.
Types of Entities and Expiration
- Entities: Corporations (including S-corps and C-corps), Limited Liability Companies (LLCs).
- Expiration: Typically, the expiration date aligns with when registration is due to be renewed or when periodic documents/fees are due.
Obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing
- In most states, you can order and download the certificate instantly from the secretary of state’s website.
- Some states may require submitting a form to obtain the certificate.
State-Specific Processes and Additional Information
- Each state has its own processes for obtaining a certificate of good standing.
- Names for the certificate may vary, such as a certificate of status, certificate of existence, or certificate of authorization.
Examples of State Procedures
- South Dakota: Allows online and mail certificate requests for fees.
- Tennessee: Charges $20 for a certificate.
- Texas: Calls them “certificates of fact” for $15, available online or by mail.
Apostilles and Company Restoration
- The Secretary of State apostilles certificates for use abroad under the 1961 Hague Convention.
- Company restoration reinstates lapsed corporations.
How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in North Dakota?
A certificate of good standing certifies a company is properly registered and can legally do business in a state. Corporations and LLCs need this certificate to show they are complying with state requirements.