Corporate
Certificate of Good Standing
California
What is a Certificate of Good Standing?
I am a small business owner in the process of applying for a business loan and I have come across the term 'Certificate of Good Standing.' I am not sure what this certificate is, why it is necessary, and how I can obtain one for my business. Could you please explain what a Certificate of Good Standing is and its significance in the context of business operations and loan applications?
Answers from 1 Lawyer
Answer
Corporate
California
Robert P.
ContractsCounsel verified
June 10, 2025
A certificate of good standing is simply a due diligence item the lender will require showing your business entity is in "good standing" with the state in which the business was formed. "Good standing" means the business is operational and has paid its taxes (franchise taxes, etc) and is up to date on all annual fees, etc. To get the certificate, you can log on to your state of formation's secretary of state website (usually under the section entitled "business services") and you can purchase a certificate of good standing for a minimal fee.
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