What is a certified copy?

Certified copies are copies of business documents that are certified by the state of incorporation as being a true and correct copy. Most states also attach a cover page bearing the state seal or the signature of the Secretary of State.

Do I need photocopies or certified copies of my business documents?

This depends on what you intend to use the business documents for. While each business situation is unique, certified copies are typically used for opening bank accounts, loan transactions, foreign qualification, renewal of business licenses, or in connection with court cases. Photocopies are usually sufficient for internal review procedures such as identifying corporate structure, establishing a timeline of corporate events and determining officer or director names.

What is the difference between a certified copy and a certificate of good standing?

A certificate of good standing reflects the status of a company as of a particular date. A certified copy is a copy of a document that is already on file with the state (such as articles of incorporation) that the state certifies as being authentic.

Certified Copy

A certified copy is an official, state-certified copy of any document that your company has filed with the state.

In general, certified copies are requested anytime you need to prove the contents of your business filings. For instance, a bank may require a certified copy of your articles of organization prior to giving you a loan.

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When Certified Copies are Required

Bank loans
Tax filings
Foreign business qualification
To replace original business documents
To provide proof of business registration

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Meet State Requirements

You may need to obtain certified copies of your important company documents for a variety of reasons. If you lose the original copies of your company filings, you may be required to order certified copies to replace them in your corporate records. You may also need to order certified copies in order to qualify as a foreign entity to do business in other states.

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Simply answer a few questions to complete your order and we will compile the necessary paperwork for you, process your request with the state, and send you your certified copy when it is ready.

Available in All 50 States

This service for obtaining copies of your important records is available in all 50 states.

Friendly Support

Our knowledgeable and friendly staff are ready to answer your questions and help ensure that your order is processed smoothly and without delay.

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Order certified copies in three easy steps

Complete Our Short Questionnaire

Indicate your business type, state of formation, type of certified copy being requested, and contact information.

We Finish Your Paperwork and Submit it to the State

After filing, we continue to communicate with the state on behalf of your company so that everything is handled correctly. We provide online tracking so that you can monitor the status of your request.