How to Get a Certificate of Status in Florida

You may be asked to provide a certificate of status for your Florida limited liability company (LLC). In addition, many creditors ask for a certificate of status before issuing business credit. 

A Florida certificate of status is relatively easy to obtain, but it does take some know-how. 

What Is a Florida Certificate of Status?

A certificate of status, known as a certificate of good standing in most states, is issued by the state and verifies that your LLC complies with all Florida regulations. The state will issue the certificate if you’ve met all deadlines, such as annual report filings. 

Keep in mind that you’re not required to get a certificate of status in Florida, but banks and creditors might request one, so it’s wise to have it on hand.   

In What Situations Would I Need a Certificate of Status?

A bank or creditor might request a certificate of status as part of their due diligence and risk assessment when they apply for a business loan or business credit. 

They need to verify that you’re registered to do business in the state and fully compliant. If you expand your business to other states, you’ll have to register as a foreign LLC. In such cases, the new state may request a certificate of status from your home state.

Requirements to Obtain a Certificate of Status in Florida

You must have a registered business entity in the state, either an LLC or a corporation. Sole proprietorships and partnerships do not register with the state, so they cannot obtain a certificate of status. 

You’ll also need to be up to date on all Florida business licensing, permits, and reporting requirements for your LLC or corporation in Florida.

Which Department Issues Certificates of Status in Florida?

In Florida, the Division of Corporations issues certificates of status. You can obtain one through the Division of Corporations website. 

Alternatively, you can submit your request for the certificate in writing. It needs to contain the following:

• Your entity’s name
• The Florida document or registration number
• The document type (e.g., Articles of Incorporation, Amendment, Dissolution)
• The date the document was filed with the Division of Corporations.
• Payment in the form of a check or money order.

You’ll mail the request to:

Department of State Division of Corporations
Section Name
P.O. Box 6327
Tallahassee, FL 32314

• Make all checks payable to the Florida Department of State.
• Must be payable in U.S. currency drawn from a U.S. bank.