New Hampshire Certificate of Authority

A New Hampshire Certificate of Authority is a crucial document required for businesses seeking to operate within the state. This certificate serves as official recognition that a company is authorized to conduct business activities in New Hampshire, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. Without this certification, a business may face legal consequences and limitations on its operations in the state.

Obtaining a New Hampshire Certificate of Authority involves submitting an application to the Secretary of State’s office, along with any necessary supporting documentation. This process typically includes providing details about the company’s structure, ownership, and intended business activities in the state. Once granted, the certificate demonstrates to customers, vendors, and government agencies that the business is properly registered and authorized to operate in New Hampshire, fostering trust and credibility in the marketplace.

What is a New Hampshire certificate of authority?

Businesses must register with the New Hampshire Department of State before operating in the state. Companies incorporated elsewhere usually apply for a New Hampshire certificate of authority. This process registers the business as a foreign entity, removing the need to establish a new entity.

Failure to obtain a certificate of authority can lead to penalties. State requirements, as well as requests from licensing agencies, banks, and vendors, often necessitate having this certificate.

When should I acquire a certificate of authority?

Common reasons for obtaining a certificate of authority include:

• Establishing a physical presence or office in the state
• Hiring an employee residing in New Hampshire
• Starting a contract or project in a new state
• Meeting vendor or bank requirements
• Fulfilling licensing authority demands

How can I obtain a New Hampshire certificate of authority?

To secure your New Hampshire Certificate of Authority, you need to submit an Application for Certificate of Authority along with necessary documents from your home state. Designating a registered agent is crucial for approval. Follow the state’s guidelines meticulously to avoid rejection due to minor errors.

For different types of entities, the process is as follows:

• Foreign Corporations: Application through the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division, with a fee of $100.
• Foreign Limited Liability Companies: Application through the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division, with a fee of $100.
• Foreign Nonprofit Corporations: Application through the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division, with a fee of $25.
• Foreign Professional Corporations: Application through the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division, with a fee of $100.
• Foreign Limited Partnerships: Application through the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division, with a fee of $100.
• Foreign Limited Liability Partnerships: Application through the New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division, with a fee of $100.

What is required from my home state?

New Hampshire does not demand a certificate of good standing or certified copies for this application.

Who is a registered agent?

A registered agent accepts legal documents and official notices on behalf of a business. When applying for a New Hampshire Certificate of Authority, you must list a registered agent with a physical address within the state. P.O. Boxes are not acceptable. Utilizing a local registered agent address fulfills the state’s requirements and offers same-day document scanning services in all states and DC for a flat rate of $99 per year.

How can I contact the state?

New Hampshire Secretary of State – Corporations Division
Physical Address: State House Annex, Room 317, 25 Capitol Street, 3rd Floor, Concord, NH 3301
Mailing Address: N.H. Department of State – Corporations Division, 107 North Main Street, Concord, NH 03301-4989
Phone: (603) 271-3246
Website: https://sos.nh.gov/corporation-ucc-securities/corporation/corporation-ucc-and-securities/
Name Search: https://quickstart.sos.nh.gov/online/BusinessInquire
Forms: https://sos.nh.gov/corporation-ucc-securities/corporation/forms-and-fees/
Online Filing: https://quickstart.sos.nh.gov/online/Account/LandingPage
Email: corporate@sos.nh.gov