Business Filings
New York Certificate of Status
A certificate of status — often called a certificate of good standing — is the New York Department of State's written confirmation that a business exists on the public record and has filed what it is required to file.
What the certificate says
The certificate states that the entity was formed or authorized in New York, gives the date of that filing, and confirms whether the business is current with the filings the Department of State requires of it. It does not address taxes, licences, insurance or any other agency's records.
New York issues the certificate for business corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships and authorized foreign entities. A certificate under seal is available when an institution requires the sealed version.
Who usually asks for one
- Banks opening a business account or underwriting a loan
- Landlords and franchisors signing a commercial agreement
- Another state's filing office when you register to do business there
- Licensing boards, insurers and government contracting offices
- Buyers and their counsel during a sale or financing of the business
Why a late Biennial Statement blocks it
New York will not describe a business as current when a required Biennial Statement is outstanding. This is the most common reason a certificate request is refused, and it is usually discovered at the worst moment — during a closing or a bank review. Bringing the statement up to date first is the fastest route to a clean certificate.
What it costs and how long it takes
The Department of State charges a fee per certificate, with an additional charge for expedited handling. Fees and processing times are set by the state and can change, so confirm the current amounts with the Department of State before you order. Requests can be made by mail, by fax or in person in Albany.
How we help
Our service today is Biennial Statement preparation and filing — the requirement that most often stands between a business and a clean certificate. Search your record below to see your filing status and period. If your statement is due or overdue, you can prepare and file it with us, then request your certificate directly from the Department of State.
This page is general business information, not legal or tax advice. New York Business File is a private service and is not the New York Department of State.
Check your standing first
Enter your business name or NY DOS ID to see whether a Biennial Statement is outstanding.
Not sure how your filing period is set? Read the Biennial Statement guide.