Wyoming Certificate of Authority
A Wyoming Certificate of Authority is a crucial legal document that authorizes a business entity to operate within the state of Wyoming. This certificate is required for foreign entities seeking to conduct business in Wyoming, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations.
Obtaining a Wyoming Certificate of Authority involves submitting an application to the Wyoming Secretary of State’s office, along with the necessary supporting documents and fees. Once approved, the certificate allows the foreign entity to legally transact business in Wyoming, giving it the right to enter into contracts, open bank accounts, and establish a physical presence in the state.
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In order to conduct business in Wyoming, companies must register with the Wyoming Secretary of State. If a business is incorporated in another state, it typically needs to obtain a Wyoming certificate of authority. This process registers the business as a foreign entity, eliminating the need to establish a new entity.
Failure to operate with a certificate of authority can lead to penalties or fines. Apart from meeting state requirements, various entities such as licensing agencies, banks, and vendors often request a certificate of authority.
Common scenarios that necessitate applying for a certificate of authority include:
- Establishing an office or physical presence in the foreign state
- Employing individuals residing within the state
- Initiating a contract or project in a new state
- Fulfilling requirements from vendors or banks
- Complying with licensing authority mandates
To acquire your Wyoming Certificate of Authority, you must submit an Application for Certificate of Authority along with necessary certificates or certified copies from your home state. Additionally, appointing a registered agent is crucial for the approval of your filing. It’s essential to meticulously follow the state’s guidelines to prevent rejection due to minor errors.
For Foreign Entities:
Organization: Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
Form: Certificate of Authority
Fee: $150
Law: W.S. § 17-16-1503
Certified Copy Requirement: Not mandatory
Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Valid within 60 days
For Foreign Limited Liability Companies:
Organization: Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
Form: Certificate of Authority
Fee: $150
Law: W.S. § 17-16-1533
Certified Copy Requirement: Not mandatory
Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Valid within 60 days
For Foreign Nonprofit Corporations:
Organization: Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
Form: Certificate of Authority
Fee: $50
Law: W.S. § 17-19-1503
Certified Copy Requirement: Not mandatory
Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Valid within 60 days
For Foreign Limited Partnerships:
Organization: Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
Form: Certificate of Registration
Fee: $150
Law: W.S. § 17-14-202
Certified Copy Requirement: Not mandatory
Certificate of Good Standing Requirement: Valid within 60 days
What documents are needed from my home state?
To obtain a Wyoming Certificate of Authority, you must also provide:
- Limited Liability Company: Certificate of existence or good standing (within 60 days)
- Corporation: Certificate of existence or good standing (within 60 days)
- Limited Partnership: Certificate of existence, good standing, or status (within 60 days)
- Nonprofit Corporation: Certificate of existence or good standing (within 60 days)
Who is a registered agent?
A registered agent accepts legal documents and official notices on behalf of your business. When completing your Wyoming Certificate of Authority application, you must designate a registered agent with a physical address within the state. Utilizing a local registered agent service address fulfills state requirements, offering same-day document scanning in all states and DC for a flat annual rate of $99.
Wyoming Secretary of State – Business Division
Address: Herschler Building East, Suite 101, 122 West 25th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82002-0020
Phone: (307) 777-7311
Fax: (307) 777-5339
Website: soswy.state.wy.us
Name Search: wyobiz.wyo.gov
Forms: soswy.state.wy.us/Forms/Default.aspx
Online Filing: sos.wyo.gov/Business/OnlineBusinessServices.aspx
Email: business@wyo.gov