Certificate of Good Standing
DIY Step-by-Step Guide(No agent or lawyer)
1) Verify Active ComplianceEnsure all required filings and fees are submitted (annual report, franchise tax, etc.).
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
3) Search Your EntityEnter your business’s exact name or file number and locate the entity.
4) Purchase CertificateClick 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.
5) Download or Print CertificateOnce payment is processed, download and print immediately from the link or via email.
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 62756Include check ($25), entity details, and mailing instructions; or call the indicated phone numbers
7) Store or Share as NeededUse the certificate for banking, licensing, state contracts, foreign qualification, or compliance verification.
Common Mistakes People Make
● Not filing the annual reportIf 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 penaltiesEven a small late fee, franchise tax balance, or penalty prevents issuance.● Using the wrong entity nameThe 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 entitiesSole proprietorships (without incorporation/LLC registration) are not eligible for a Certificate of Good Standing. ● Requesting the wrong certificateWebpage offers different documents (e.g., certified copies, status certificates). Make sure to select Certificate of Good Standing. ● Not checking turnaroundSome 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:
● Exact Business Name (as registered with the Secretary of State). ● Entity File Number (also called “ID number,” available in SOS business search). ● Up-to-Date Compliance Records: Most recent Annual Report filed. Any franchise tax payments completed. Confirmation of no outstanding penalties. ● Payment Method (credit/debit card for online requests; check/money order for mail). ● Registered Agent Information (not always required, but may be asked for verification). ● Mailing or Email Address (for receiving the certificate).