The Michigan Certificate of Good Standing, also referred to as a Certificate of Existence, is issued by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This certificate verifies that a business is legally registered and compliant with state regulations, including filing required reports and paying fees. Additionally, individuals or businesses not eligible for a Certificate of Good Standing may request a Confirmation of Status, which provides details about past or present registration and compliance.
How to Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Michigan
You can request a Certificate of Good Standing (Certificate of Existence) from the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) online, by mail, by phone, or in person. Below are the steps for each method:
Online
Visit the LARA Business Portal and complete the online Order Request Form. Pay the fee using a Visa, MasterCard, or Discover card. Online orders typically take about 3 business days to process.
By Mail
Mail the completed form (CSCL/CD-274) to the Corporations Division at PO Box 30054, Lansing, MI 48909. Include a check or money order payable to the “State of Michigan.” Allow additional time for mailing and processing.
By Phone
Call the Corporations Division at (517) 241-6470 and place your order. You will receive an invoice and can pay by check or money order once your order is processed.
In Person
Visit the Corporations Division office at 2501 Woodlake Circle, Okemos, MI 48864. Expedited service is available for an additional fee of $2.50, ensuring processing by the end of the next business day. Payment options include cash, check, money order, or credit card.
What is a Confirmation of Status?
If your business or individual registration does not qualify for a Certificate of Good Standing, you can request a Confirmation of Status. This document verifies the past or current registration and compliance status but does not certify good standing. It is often used when:
- The business is no longer active
- The entity is suspended, withdrawn, or resigned
- An attorney needs to verify past or present licensing with the State Bar of Michigan
How to Obtain a Confirmation of Status
A Confirmation of Status can be requested online or by mail. Follow these steps:
Online
Visit the LARA Business Portal and select the option for Confirmation of Status. Pay the $15 fee using a credit card (Visa or MasterCard). You will receive a PDF copy via email.
By Mail
Submit your request along with the payment to LARA, Corporations Division, PO Box 30054, Lansing, MI 48909. Include a check or money order payable to the “State of Michigan.”
Michigan Certificate of Good Standing and Confirmation of Status Costs
The costs for obtaining these documents in Michigan are as follows:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Good Standing (Online, Mail, or Phone) | $10 |
| Certificate of Good Standing (In-Person, Expedited) | $12.50 |
| Confirmation of Status (Online or Mail) | $15 |
When Do You Need a Certificate of Good Standing or Confirmation of Status?
You may need these documents for the following purposes:
- To verify a business or individual’s registration for legal or financial purposes
- To comply with the requirements of banks or lenders
- To register or qualify a Michigan-based business in another state
- To provide proof of a business’s or attorney’s past or present status
Where to Contact for More Information
For assistance with obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing or Confirmation of Status, contact the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs:
- Phone: (517) 241-6470
- Fax: (517) 241-9722
- Email: corpsmail@michigan.gov
- Mailing Address: LARA, Corporations Division, PO Box 30054, Lansing, MI 48909
- In-Person Address: 2501 Woodlake Circle, Okemos, MI 48864
