Georgia Certificate of Authority
The Georgia Certificate of Authority is a crucial document that grants a foreign corporation the legal right to conduct business in the state of Georgia. This certificate serves as proof that the corporation has met all the necessary requirements set forth by the Georgia Secretary of State, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations.
Obtaining a Georgia Certificate of Authority is essential for any foreign corporation looking to expand its operations into Georgia. This document not only allows the corporation to legally operate within the state, but also provides credibility and trust to potential clients, partners, and investors. Having a Georgia Certificate of Authority demonstrates a commitment to compliance and integrity, establishing a solid foundation for successful business dealings in the state.
Contents
Before conducting business in Georgia, companies must register with the Georgia Secretary of State. Companies incorporated in another state usually seek a Georgia certificate of authority, which recognizes them as a foreign entity, eliminating the need for a new incorporation process.
Failure to obtain a certificate of authority may lead to fines or penalties. Apart from state regulations, various entities such as licensing agencies, banks, and vendors often require this certificate.
Common situations requiring a certificate of authority include:
- Establishing a physical office in a different state
- Employing someone residing in the state
- Initiating a contract or project in a new state
- Meeting vendor or bank prerequisites
- Fulfilling licensing authority demands
To secure your Georgia Certificate of Authority, you must complete an Application for Certificate of Authority and provide necessary documents or certified copies from your home state. Designating a registered agent is essential for approval. It’s crucial to meticulously follow the state’s guidelines to avoid rejection due to minor errors.
For Different Business Entities:
- Agency: Georgia Secretary of State
- Form: Application – Certificate of Authority for Profit or Nonprofit Corporation (CD236)
- Filing Options: Mail or online
- Fees: $235 via mail or $225 for online filing
- Law Reference: GA Code § 14-2-1501
- Certified Copy Requirement: Not mandatory
- Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Certificate of existence or good standing within 90 days
What documents are necessary from my home state?
When applying for a Georgia Certificate of Authority, you must also submit:
- Corporation: Certificate of existence or good standing within 90 days
- Nonprofit Corporation: Certificate of existence or good standing within 90 days
- Professional Corporation: Certificate of existence or good standing within 90 days
Who is a registered agent?
A registered agent accepts legal documents and official notices on behalf of your business. When completing your Georgia Certificate of Authority application, you must name a registered agent with a physical address within the state. Utilizing a local registered agent address fulfills state requirements and provides immediate document scanning services across all states and DC. The flat-rate registered agent service costs $99 annually and can be easily added to any certificate of authority application.
How can I contact the state?
Georgia Secretary of State
– Physical Address: 2 MLK, Jr. Dr., Suite 313, Floyd West Tower Atlanta, GA 30334-1530
– Phone: (404) 656-2817
– Website: sos.ga.gov
– Name Search: ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch
– Forms: sos.ga.gov/index.php/?section=corporations
– Online Filing: ecorp.sos.ga.gov/Account