California Certificate of Good Standing (Certificate of Status)

A Certificate of Status from the California Secretary of State confirms your LLC is active and not suspended or cancelled. You may need this for out-of-state registrations, bank applications, or certain contracts. For all compliance, see our post-formation guide.

How to Obtain

Online: bizfileonline.sos.ca.gov > Business Search > Request Certificate of Status Fee: $5 Format: Electronic (immediate download) or paper (mailed)

What It Confirms

• LLC exists as an active entity on SOS records
• LLC is not suspended, cancelled, or dissolved

Note: Does NOT confirm FTB tax compliance. For tax clearance, request a separate certificate from the Franchise Tax Board.

FAQ

What if my LLC is suspended by the FTB?

The SOS certificate may still show "active" initially, but FTB suspension prevents you from transacting business. Some requesting parties require both SOS and FTB verification.

How current does it need to be?

Most requesting parties want one within 30-60 days. The electronic certificate from bizfileOnline is issued instantly.