Florida Certificate of Status: What It Is and How to Get It
A Florida Certificate of Status is an official document confirming that a business is registered with the state and has met applicable filing requirements. Business owners may need this certificate when opening bank accounts, applying for financing, or expanding into other states.
What Is a Certificate of Status?
A Florida Certificate of Status is issued by the Florida Department of State, Division of Corporations, commonly known as Sunbiz. The certificate verifies that a business is registered and maintains an active status with the state. It provides official confirmation of the entity’s standing based on state records.
Certificate of Status vs. Good Standing vs. Existence
Terminology varies by state. Florida uses “Certificate of Status.” Other states may issue a Certificate of Good Standing or Certificate of Existence. All three generally confirm state business registration status and compliance with applicable state filing requirements.
Request Your Florida Certificate of Good Standing!
When Do You Need a Certificate of Status?
Businesses may be asked to provide this document for important transactions.
Common situations include:
- Opening a business bank account
- Applying for business loans or credit
- Registering to operate in another state
- Meeting documentation requirements from vendors or investors
- Applying for or renewing certain business licenses
Requirements vary by institution and transaction, so confirm that a certificate is necessary before ordering.
What Information Does It Include?
The certificate identifies the business and confirms its standing with the state.
It typically includes:
- The entity’s legal name
- Formation or registration date
- Current status
- Official state authentication
It does not include any financial statements, revenue figures, or credit information.
How to Get a Florida Certificate of Status
Florida businesses can request a certificate directly through Sunbiz, or they can file through a third party like FastFilings for additional support.
Both options involve a similar process:
- Verify your status: Confirm your business is active and required annual reports are filed.
- Choose your method: Apply through Sunbiz or a third-party filing service.
- Provide business details: Enter your business name and required information.
- Submit payment: Pay applicable state and service fees.
- Receive your certificate: Get your official certificate electronically once processed.
Make Sure Your Business Is in Good Standing First
Before ordering, review your business’s registration status. Missing annual report filings or unresolved filing obligations can affect eligibility. Businesses with inactive records may need to correct outstanding issues before receiving a certificate.
Check your Sunbiz record and address any problems before submitting your request. Filing overdue annual reports may require additional fees and processing time.
Florida Certificate of Status Fees and Processing Time
Florida charges $5 for an LLC and $8.75 for a corporation. You can pay these state fees directly through Sunbiz or use FastFilings for additional assistance.
Our service fees cover handling your request, reviewing business information for accuracy, and simplifying the ordering process. We help you avoid unnecessary paperwork and save time navigating state requirements.
Processing times vary, but electronic certificates are generally available shortly after successful processing.
DIY vs. Using a Filing Service
DIY Through Sunbiz | With FastFilings | |
Time | Handle each step yourself | Simplified ordering |
Accuracy | Verify details independently | Assistance with request details |
Support | State resources | Filing service support |
Using FastFilings can simplify the process when you prefer assistance rather than navigating state requirements independently.
Get Your Certificate of Status in Florida With FastFilings
We simplify the ordering process so you can focus on your business. Request your Florida Certificate of Status through FastFilings today for convenient assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Florida Certificate of Status cost?
State fees are generally $5 for LLCs and $8.75 for corporations. Filing services charge additional fees for review and support.
How long does it take to get a Florida Certificate of Status?
Electronic certificates are generally available shortly after successful online processing. Outstanding filing issues can cause delays.
Is a Florida Certificate of Status the same as a Florida Certificate of Good Standing?
Yes. The State of Florida uses Certificate of Status as its official terminology, but other states may call it a Certificate of Existence or Good Standing Certificate.
How long is a Florida Certificate of Status valid?
There is no universal expiration date. Requesting institutions often require recently issued certificates.
Can I get a Florida Certificate of Status online?
Yes. You can order through Sunbiz or use a filing service like FastFilings.