The Oklahoma Certificate of Good Standing, also known as the Certificate of Existence, is issued by the Oklahoma Secretary of State. This certificate verifies that a business is legally registered and in compliance with Oklahoma’s state laws, including required filings and fee payments. Whether you operate a corporation, LLC, or nonprofit, this certificate is often necessary for various business activities like opening a bank account, applying for loans, or registering your business in another state.
How to Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, you can request a Certificate of Good Standing, through the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office. You can submit your request online, by mail, or in person. Follow these steps to get started:
- Visit the Oklahoma Secretary of State Business Services website to search for your business.
- Search for your business using the entity name or filing number.
- Submit the request for a Certificate of Good Standing online or by mail by completing the required form.
- Pay the applicable fee using a credit card for online requests or a check if submitting by mail.
- Receive the certificate electronically or by mail, depending on your chosen method.
Oklahoma Certificate of Good Standing Costs
The costs for obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing (Certificate of Existence) in Oklahoma are as follows:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Good Standing (Standard Processing) | $20 |
Processing Time for the Certificate of Good Standing in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers standard processing times for the Certificate of Good Standing. Below are the estimated times:
| Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Online (Standard) | Immediate |
| Mail (Standard) | 1-2 weeks |
| In-Person (Standard) | Same day |
When Do You Need a Certificate of Good Standing in Oklahoma?
A Certificate of Good Standing is often required in the following scenarios:
- Opening a business bank account
- Applying for loans or credit lines
- Entering into contracts or agreements with other businesses
- Registering your business in another state (foreign qualification)
- When selling or transferring ownership of your business
Many institutions, such as banks and lenders, may require the certificate to be issued within the last 30 to 90 days.
What Happens If Your Oklahoma Business Falls Out of Good Standing?
If your business falls out of good standing in Oklahoma, it means you may have failed to file required reports or pay fees. The consequences may include fines, penalties, or even suspension of your business entity. To restore your good standing, you need to:
- File any overdue reports, such as annual certificates or filings
- Pay any outstanding fees or penalties
- Ensure full compliance with Oklahoma’s corporate regulations
Once compliance is restored, you can request a new Certificate of Good Standing to prove your business is in good standing.
Where to Contact for More Information
If you need more assistance with obtaining a Certificate of Good Standing or have any questions, you can contact the Oklahoma Secretary of State’s office at:
- Phone: (405) 521-3911
- Address: Oklahoma Secretary of State, 421 N.W. 13th St., Suite 210, Oklahoma City, OK 73103
- Website: https://www.sos.ok.gov/
