North Carolina Certificate of Good Standing

There are a number of reasons why a company that is registered to conduct business in North Carolina State may need a Certificate of Existence. This certificate will show that your business is currently in compliance with all state requirements that apply to it, and it also proves the legality of your company conducting business in North Carolina.

How does one obtain a Certificate of Existence in North Carolina? The process is fairly easy and straightforward. Essentially, you’ll need to go to your Secretary of State office and submit a records order. After you receive the document, you’ll see that it bears the seal of North Carolina and an authorized signature by the Secretary of State.

In some cases, the same status request can certify other things. For example, use this status request to order a certified collection of an entity’s on-record filings. This includes articles of information, the original registration if the company is from out of state, amendments, conversion, and other documents. Similarly, the same status request can certify that your business has been dissolved or suspended.

Looking for information on fees and records request forms? Don’t know where to conduct records research? Go to the online business search of the North Carolina website.

And when you need a Certificate of Existence quick (next business day delivery), talk to SunDoc. We’d be happy to expedite your order!

When Do You Require A Certificate Of Good Standing?

Certificates of Existence serve many purposes. 

You might need one if you are selling your company, buying a new one outright, or if you’re going through an acquisition or merger. The legal documents in these cases will need to include the Certificate of Existence.

Additionally, you’ll need a Certificate of Existence when applying for any type of credit line and for some tax matters. Keep in mind that in North Carolina, it’s possible to still owe taxes and be in good standing with the state, but you have to be in compliance with the tax process. Some licensing requirements might need a Certificate of Existence as well. 

Finally, a Certificate of Existence will also be necessary if you plan to conduct business in a state other than North Carolina. This is called foreign qualification, and SunDoc can help with the filing! 

Make sure you know your entire documentation requirements, plus expiration dates. Certain states will ask that certified status is not more than 30 days old. Others may allow 60 days. 

Certificate Of Good Standing Or Certificate Of Existence?

The Certificate of Existence in other jurisdictions may also be referred to as a Certificate of Good Standing or of Status. In North Carolina, it shows that an entity is registered to do business in the state, is in compliance with applicable corporate rules and licensing requirements, and has not been suspended by the state taxing authority, the Franchise Tax Board.

How To Get Your Certificate Of Existence

Generally speaking, you can process in-person requests in two business days, but requests that are mailed-in need 5 to 15 business days. Rush services are available for North Carolina. 

Next Steps

SunDoc Filings can handle your Certificate of Existence request, as with all of your company filings. All of our routine filings on your behalf are expedited in this way, saving valuable time over other companies that typically mail in forms.

To talk to a live voice for immediate assistance call us toll-free during business hours at 1-888-595-2747.