Connecticut Certificate of Authority
A Connecticut Certificate of Authority is a legal document that authorizes a business entity to conduct operations in the state of Connecticut. This certificate is typically required for out-of-state businesses looking to establish a presence or engage in business activities in Connecticut and ensures compliance with state regulations.
Obtaining a Connecticut Certificate of Authority involves submitting an application to the Connecticut Secretary of State’s office, along with the necessary fees and documentation. Once approved, the certificate serves as proof that the business is authorized to operate in Connecticut and is essential for maintaining good standing with state authorities.
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What is a Connecticut Certificate of Authority?
Businesses must register with the Connecticut Secretary of State before conducting operations in the state. Companies incorporated elsewhere usually seek a Connecticut certificate of authority, which designates them as a foreign entity and negates the need to establish a new entity.
Operating without this certificate may lead to fines or penalties. Apart from state requirements, various entities such as licensing agencies, banks, and vendors often ask for a certificate of authority.
When is a Certificate of Authority Required?
Common reasons for obtaining a certificate of authority include:
- Establishing a physical presence or office in the foreign state
- Employing a resident of the state
- Commencing work under a contract in a new state
- Meeting the requirements of vendors, banks, or licensing authorities
How to Obtain a Connecticut Certificate of Authority?
To acquire your Connecticut Certificate of Authority, you must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority along with necessary certificates or certified copies from your home state. It is essential to appoint a registered agent for successful filing approval. Adhere closely to the state’s guidelines, as even minor errors can lead to document rejection.
For Foreign Corporations:
- Agency: Connecticut Secretary of State – Commercial Recording Division
- Form: Application for Certificate of Authority
- Agency Fee: $385
- Law: CT Stat § 33-920
- Certified Copy Requirement: Not necessary
- Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Must be dated within 90 days
For Foreign Limited Liability Companies, Nonprofit Corporations, Professional Corporations, and Limited Liability Partnerships, similar processes apply with specific requirements and fees.
What Documents are Needed from the Home State?
To secure a Connecticut Certificate of Authority, you must also provide:
- Limited Liability Company: Certificate of existence issued within 90 days
- Corporation: Certificate of existence dated within 90 days
- Limited Liability Partnership: Certificate of existence dated within 90 days
- Nonprofit Corporation: Certificate of existence dated within 90 days
- Professional Corporation: Certificate of existence dated within 90 days
Definition of a Registered Agent
A registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents and official notifications on behalf of your business. When applying for a Connecticut Certificate of Authority, you must designate a registered agent with a physical address within the state (P.O. Boxes are not acceptable).
If your business lacks a physical address in a new state, utilizing a local registered agent address fulfills the state’s requirements. Our registered agent service offers same-day document scanning in all states and DC for a flat rate of $99 annually, easily added to any certificate of authority order.
State Contact Information
Connecticut Secretary of State – Commercial Recording Division
– Physical Address: 30 Trinity Street, Hartford, CT 06106
– Mailing Address: ATTN: Commercial Recording Division, PO Box 150470, Hartford, CT 06115-0470
– Phone: (860) 509-6002
– Fax: (860) 509-6069
– Website: Connecticut Secretary of State
– Name Search: Online Business Search
– Forms: All Business Filings
– Online Filing: Business Connecticut
– Email: crd@ct.gov