How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in New Hampshire - How to Start my LLC

How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in New Hampshire

Written by:

Carolyn Young has over 25 years of experience in business in various roles, including bank management, marketing management, and business education.

Reviewed by: Sarah Ruddle

For over 15 years, Sarah Ruddle has been a noteworthy leader in the business and nonprofit world.

How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in New Hampshire

How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in New Hampshire

You may be asked to provide a certificate of good standing for your New Hampshire limited liability company (LLC). Banks and creditors often ask for this document before issuing business credit to ensure you comply.  

A New Hampshire certificate of good standing is relatively easy to obtain, but it does take some know-how. Lucky for you, this handy guide walks you through the process. 

What Is a New Hampshire Certificate of Good Standing?

In New Hampshire, a certificate of good standing verifies that your LLC is in full compliance with state regulations. The state will issue the certificate if you’ve met all deadlines and filed all relevant reports. 

Keep in mind that you’re not required to get a certificate of good standing in New Hampshire, 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 Good Standing?

Again, a bank or creditor might request a certificate of good standing when you apply for a business loan or business credit. This is simply part of their due diligence and risk assessment, confirming that your business has no outstanding regulatory issues.  

In addition, 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 good standing from your home state.

Requirements to Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in New Hampshire

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 good standing. 

You’ll also need to comply with all legal requirements for your LLC or corporation in New Hampshire. That means you’ll need to be up to date on all New Hampshire business licenses, permits, and reporting requirements. 

Which Department Issues Certificates of Good Standing in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the Department of State issues certificates of good standing. You can obtain one online.

How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in New Hampshire

Visit the Secretary of State’s website and search for your business. 

image

Select your business to view your LLC’s information and click “order certificate of good standing.” 

The fee is $5, and assuming your LLC is in full compliance, you should receive your certificate within ten days.

Alternatively, you can submit a written request by mailing it, along with the fee, to:

Corporation Division
NH Sec. of State
107 North Main Street, Room 204
Concord, NH 03301.

Conclusion

Getting a certificate of good standing may seem like a hassle, but you won’t think that when you need financing. So be sure to get it done when you have a chance – you, and your LLC, will be happy you did.