Certificate of Good Standing
Timing
Immediate online issuance (usually within minutes)
If You Do It Yourself
$25 (for LLCs or corporations) or $5 for nonprofits. Expedited options may cost $45 and take slightly longer
Online vs. Offline
Online: via the SOS business search portal — search your entity, purchase, and instantly download or print the certificate. Mail or phone: available for corporations; download and send payment/check or call to request
Eligibility
Eligible entities: LLCs, corporations, nonprofits. There’s no requirement for U.S. residency or specific visa status to request this certificate.
Documents ready
Before starting, have your exact business name and file (entity) number ready. Confirm your entity is active, with all annual reports and state fees up to date.
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DIY Step-by-Step Guide
(No agent or lawyer)
1
Verify Active Compliance
Ensure all required filings and fees are submitted (annual report, franchise tax, etc.).
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2
Visit Illinois SOS Website
(as an example)
Go to the SOS Corporation/LLC Business Search.
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/business_searches.html
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/business_searches.html
3
Search Your Entity
Enter your business’s exact name or file number and locate the entity.
4
Purchase Certificate
Click on “Purchase Certificate of Good Standing.
”Pay $25 (or $5 for nonprofits) with card; or request expedited ($45)
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/howdoi.html.
”Pay $25 (or $5 for nonprofits) with card; or request expedited ($45)
https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/business_services/howdoi.html.
5
Download or Print Certificate
Once payment is processed, download and print immediately from the link or via email.
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6
Optional – Request by Mail or Phone
(Corporations)
Fax or mail a request to:
Secretary of State, Corporations Division, 501 S.
Second St., 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62756
Include check ($25), entity details, and mailing instructions; or call the indicated phone numbers
Secretary of State, Corporations Division, 501 S.
Second St., 3rd Floor, Springfield, IL 62756
Include check ($25), entity details, and mailing instructions; or call the indicated phone numbers
7
Store or Share as Needed
Use the certificate for banking, licensing, state contracts, foreign qualification, or compliance verification.
Common Mistakes People Make
Not filing the annual report
If your business missed its Annual Report filing (due before the first day of your anniversary month each year), the certificate will be denied.
If your business missed its Annual Report filing (due before the first day of your anniversary month each year), the certificate will be denied.
Unpaid state fees or penalties
Even a small late fee, franchise tax balance, or penalty prevents issuance.
Even a small late fee, franchise tax balance, or penalty prevents issuance.
Using the wrong entity name
The Secretary of State system requires the exact legal entity name as registered. Spelling errors, abbreviations, or missing punctuation cause delays.
The Secretary of State system requires the exact legal entity name as registered. Spelling errors, abbreviations, or missing punctuation cause delays.
Confusing sole proprietorships/DBAs with entities
Sole proprietorships (without incorporation/LLC registration) are not eligible for a Certificate of Good Standing.
Sole proprietorships (without incorporation/LLC registration) are not eligible for a Certificate of Good Standing.
Requesting the wrong certificate
Webpage offers different documents (e.g., certified copies, status certificates). Make sure to select Certificate of Good Standing.
Webpage offers different documents (e.g., certified copies, status certificates). Make sure to select Certificate of Good Standing.
Not checking turnaround
Some banks or state agencies need a certificate dated within 30–60 days. Ordering too early can make the document expire before use.
Some banks or state agencies need a certificate dated within 30–60 days. Ordering too early can make the document expire before use.
Documents & Information Needed
Before starting the process, prepare:
Before starting the process, prepare:
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Exact Business Name (as registered with the Secretary of State).
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Entity File Number (also called “ID number,” available in SOS business search).
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Up-to-Date Compliance Records:
● Most recent Annual Report filed.
● Any franchise tax payments completed.
● Confirmation of no outstanding penalties.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Payment Method (credit/debit card for online requests; check/money order for mail).
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Registered Agent Information (not always required, but may be asked for verification).
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
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Mailing or Email Address (for receiving the certificate).
Let Victoria Handle It for You
Skip the paperwork, avoid mistakes, and get your Certificate of Good Standing fast. As a corporate compliance specialist, Victoria takes care of filings, compliance, and deadlines - so you can focus on growing your business.
Providing professional support in business formation, corporate compliance, and tax-related matters. From entity setup to IRS assistance, we help clients navigate regulatory requirements with clarity, accuracy, and confidence.
Disclaimer: Victoria Duchovny is an Enrolled Agent, Compliance Specialist, and licensed Notary Public. She is not an attorney and does not provide legal advice or legal representation. Services are limited to tax, compliance, and notarial support.
Nothing on this website or in any communication should be construed as legal advice. Clients seeking legal counsel or representation are encouraged to consult a licensed attorney.
Address:
Deerfield Executive Center
1020 Milwaukee Ave
Suite 320
Deerfield, IL 60015
USA
