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Rhode Island Certificate of Good Standing (Status) for a Domestic Entity
A Rhode Island statutory entity (such as an LLC or corporation) can obtain a Rhode Island Certificate of Good Standing (Status) if it is in good standing with the Rhode Island Department of State. The document typically confirms the following information:
- Entity name
- Entity type
- Formation or incorporation date
- The most recent annual report has been filed
- The entity has not filed Articles of Dissolution
- The entity is active and in good standing with the Rhode Island Department of State
Rhode Island Certificate of Good Standing (Status) for a Foreign Entity
An out-of-state entity that is registered to do business in Rhode Island can obtain a Rhode Island if it is in good standing with the state. This document generally provides the following information:
- Entity name
- Entity type
- State of organization (domestic state)
- Foreign qualification date
- The most recent annual report has been filed
- The entity has not filed a Certificate of Withdrawal
- The entity is active and in good standing with the Rhode Island Department of State
Rhode Island Certificate of Good Standing FAQs
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What is a Rhode Island (RI) Certificate of Good Standing?
A Certificate of Good Standing (also referred to as a Certificate of Status) verifies that a business entity is in compliance with the “good standing” requirements specified by the Rhode Island Department of State, which is overseen by the Secretary of State. Rhode Island “good standing” requirements include filing all required annual reports and maintaining a registered agent and office in Rhode Island.
This document may also be known as a “certificate of existence” in other states.
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Why is “good standing” important for your business?
Being in good standing allows a corporation, LLC, or other statutory entity in Rhode Island to maintain the rights and privileges of doing business in the state. A business may need to provide a Certificate of Good Standing (or the equivalent) when expanding to other states or for financing, business transactions, and licensing. The consequences of losing good standing can include fines, the inability to file a lawsuit, the inability to do business in other states, and the administrative dissolution of your business.
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What is the difference between a “certificate of good standing” and a “letter of good standing” in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, a Certificate of Good Standing and a Letter of Good Standing verify different information about a business entity.
A Rhode Island Certificate of Good Standing confirms the active status of a business entity and that it has fulfilled the state’s good standing requirements, which include annual report filings and maintaining a Rhode Island registered agent and office. The certificate, also known as a Certificate of Status, is issued by the Business Services Division of the Rhode Island Department of State.
A Letter of Good Standing is issued by the Division of Taxation of the Department of Revenue. This document verifies that a business entity is compliant with Division of Taxation requirements, including payment of all required state taxes and fees and obtaining state licenses and permits issued by the division.
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When do you need a Rhode Island (RI) Certificate of Good Standing?
A business planning to expand and operate in other states may need to supply a good standing certificate as part of the foreign qualification process in those states.
Lenders, investors, and vendors can also require a Certificate of Good Standing (or the equivalent) before doing business with a company. You may also need a Certificate of Good Standing to obtain business licenses or for certain business transactions, such as mergers and acquisitions.
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How do I obtain a Rhode Island (RI) Certificate of Good Standing?You can order a Rhode Island Certificate of Good Standing online today from CT Corporation or contact us for additional information.
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*State fees are mandatory fees imposed by the state. Price includes online discount automatically applied at checkout. Discount is for new customers only.