Mississippi Certificate of Authority
The Mississippi Certificate of Authority is a crucial document that grants a foreign corporation or limited liability company the legal right to conduct business activities within the state of Mississippi. This certificate signifies that the entity has met the necessary requirements set forth by the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations.
Obtaining a Mississippi Certificate of Authority is a fundamental step for out-of-state businesses looking to operate in Mississippi. It establishes the company’s legitimacy and allows it to engage in various transactions, such as entering into contracts, leasing property, or hiring employees within the state. Failure to obtain this certificate may result in legal consequences and hinder the company’s ability to conduct business activities in Mississippi.
Contents
Businesses must register with the Mississippi Secretary of State before conducting operations in Mississippi. When businesses are incorporated in another state, they typically seek a Mississippi certificate of authority. This action registers the business as a foreign entity, eliminating the need for establishing a new entity.
Operating without a certificate of authority may lead to penalties or fines. Apart from state requirements, licensing agencies, banks, and vendors often require a certificate of authority.
Common scenarios that necessitate applying for a certificate of authority include:
- Establishing an office or physical presence in a different state
- Employing a resident of the state
- Commencing a contract or work in a new state
- Meeting vendor or bank requirements
- Fulfilling licensing authority prerequisites
To obtain your Mississippi Certificate of Authority, you must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority along with necessary certificates or certified copies from your home state. Designating a registered agent is crucial for approval of your filing. Adhering to the state’s guidelines is essential, as even minor errors can lead to document rejection.
For various types of foreign entities:
Agency: Mississippi Secretary of State
Filing Method: Online
Agency Fee: $500
Relevant Law: MS Code § 79-4-15.01
Certified Copy Requirement: Not needed
Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Valid certificate of existence within 60 days
What documentation is required from my home state?
In addition to the application, you must also submit specific documents depending on your entity type:
- Limited Liability Company: Certificate of Good Standing
- Corporation: Certificate of existence dated within 60 days
- Limited Partnership: Certificate of Good Standing
- Limited Liability Partnership: Certificate of Good Standing
- Nonprofit Corporation: Certificate of existence dated within 60 days
- Professional Corporation: Certificate of existence dated within 60 days
Who is a registered agent?
A registered agent accepts legal documents and official notices on behalf of your business. When applying for a Mississippi Certificate of Authority, you are required to name 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, you can list our local registered agent address on your application to meet state requirements. Our registered agent service includes same-day document scanning in all 50 states and DC for a flat rate of $99 per year, easily added to your certificate of authority order.
How can I contact the state?
Mississippi Secretary of State
Physical Address: 700 North Street, P. O. Box 136, Jackson, MS 39205-0136
Mailing Address: 700 North Street, P. O. Box 136, Jackson, MS 39205-0136
Phone: (601) 359-1633
Fax: (601) 359-1499
Website: www.sos.ms.gov
Name Search: Online Search
Online Filing: Portal