Certificates of good standing (or existence)

A certificate of good standing is a short document from the state business filing office. It confirms a business is registered and current on its required filings. Some states call it a certificate of existence, status, or fact.

When you need one

Registering the business to operate in another state.
Opening certain bank accounts, loans, or contracts.
Sometimes, with an apostille, for use abroad.

How to get one

Order it from your state's business filing office. Many states offer instant online certificates. The fee is set by the state. If the certificate is going abroad, you may also need an apostille from the same state.

Find your state office

See the business filing directory for official links to all 50 states and DC.

Checked November 12, 2026. Not legal advice.