A Certificate of Good Standing, also known as a Certificate of Existence or Certificate of Authorization, is an official document issued by a state government agency, typically the Secretary of State's office, confirming that a business entity (such as a corporation or LLC) is duly registered and compliant with all statutory requirements to operate in that state.

 

It verifies that the entity has met its legal obligations, such as filing required reports, paying fees, and maintaining registered agents. This certificate is often requested when a business wants to expand its operations, obtain financing, enter into contracts, or demonstrate its legal status and compliance to third parties.