Many studies have shown that there’s a strong correlation between a company’s reputation and its financial success. That shouldn’t come as a huge surprise; after all, why would consumers put their trust and money in a business they’re wary of?
Organizations just starting out may find it challenging to gain consumer trust. But thankfully, there are ways to prove that you’re reliable. For example, you can get a Nebraska certificate of good standing if your business is located in that state.
What’s this certificate and how can you get it? Read on to find out more.
What’s a Certificate of Good Standing?
A certificate of good standing is an official document that’s issued by the Secretary of State. It proves that your business is legally registered in that state (in this case, Nebraska), and is available for entities like limited liability companies (LLCs), limited liability partnerships, and corporations. In addition, it shows that you’re compliant with all state requirements, including filing annual reports and paying necessary fees.
In many states (including Nebraska), you’re not legally required to have this certificate to run a company. However, there are several circumstances where you’d benefit from having one.
Business Transactions
There are certain business transactions that may require a certificate of good standing to ensure that your company’s in compliance with state regulations. Some examples are mergers, acquisitions, or the sale of your business.
Business Contracts
Some contracts may say that a business must provide a certificate of good standing. This is to prove its legal status and compliance with state regulations.
Bank Loans and Financing
Understandably, some lenders may require this certificate before giving out loans. That way, they can verify that your company is reliable and in good standing with the state.
Renewing Licenses and Permits
Some professional licenses and permits may require proof that the business is in good standing. Having this certificate on hand can cut out a lot of time and work.
Foreign Qualification
“Foreign” in this case doesn’t mean outside of the country; rather, this has to do with other states. If your Nebraska-based company wants to register to do business in another state, it’ll typically need a certificate of good standing as part of the registration process.
How to Get a Certificate of Good Standing in Nebraska
Before you get a certificate of good standing, first make sure that your business is actually in compliance with all state requirements. This includes filing annual reports, paying taxes, and maintaining up-to-date information with the Secretary of State.
Haven’t started a company yet? Then use our business registration service. We can set up both LLCs and corporations, and it’ll only take a few days.
Otherwise, if you’re certain that you’re in good standing, then you can proceed with the following.
Get on the Secretary of State’s Website
You’ll have to register an account with the Nebraska Secretary of State, and you can do this on their website. The information you’ll need is as follows:
- Full name
- Business name
- Email address
- Physical address
Next, under the “Business Services” part of the Secretary of State’s website, click on “Business Services” and then “Corporate and Business.” On this page, you’ll see “Order Certificate of Good Standing/Copies of Filed Documents.”
You can then search for your company with several options, including “Name exact match.” Whichever you choose, you’ll find your business listed on the next page. Click on it, and you can pick which document you want to get. You can order either an online or paper copy of the certificate.
Both options will cost you $10, and there’s no expedited option available. However, online processing is faster, as it takes up to three business days. With snail mail, not only do you have the mailing time (both to and from), but the processing time will also take longer (up to four business days).
Other options are by phone or in person. You can only do the former if you’ve already set up a charge account. For the latter, you can get your certificate within the hour.
How Long Is a Certificate of Good Standing Valid?
Technically, a Nebraska certificate of good standing is valid forever. However, it’s actual validity will generally depend on three things: the jurisdiction, the requesting entity’s requirements, and the purpose for requesting the certificate.
Typically, you can consider the certificate valid for 30 to 90 days from the date of issuance. But to be extra sure, you should double-check with the requesting party.
Request a Nebraska Certificate of Good Standing
A Nebraska certificate of good standing can be excellent for several purposes, even if you didn’t previously need one. As you can see, it can facilitate things like business contracts, loans, licenses, and permits.
Plus, it’s not difficult to obtain, as long as you’ve been responsible and kept up with business obligations. If you’re already in good standing, then it’s as simple as logging on, finding your company, and requesting the certificate.
Sign up with Business Anywhere to create your own company if you don’t already have one. We’ll point you in the right direction so operating your business won’t be a hassle.
