Idaho Certificate of Existence: What It Is and How to Get One

Whether you’re seeking to finance your business or expand it into another state, you may need a certificate of existence, commonly referred to as a certificate of good standing or a certificate of status. In Idaho, this document is available through the Idaho Secretary of State (SOS). This guide will walk you through how to request a certificate of existence, the cost, and what to do if your business doesn’t currently qualify.

What does an Idaho certificate of existence prove?

An Idaho certificate of existence is an official document that confirms your business is legally registered and currently active with the Idaho Secretary of State. You may need a certificate of existence to do one of the following things:

• Open a business bank account. Many banks require proof of active, compliant status before they'll open a commercial account.
• Apply for a business loan or financing. Lenders routinely check a business’ status with the state before approving a loan or line of credit.
• Register to do business in another state (foreign qualification). Many states require a certificate of existence to authorize an out-of-state business to operate within its borders.
• Complete a merger or acquisition. Buyers, sellers, and their attorneys typically require proof of active status from all entities before a deal closes.
• Apply for a business license. Some licensing agencies require a current certificate of existence before approving an application

How to get an Idaho certificate of existence: Step-by-step

The easiest way to order a certificate of existence is online through SOSBiz, the Secretary of State website, business services portal. However, the Secretary of State also offers a paper form that you can submit by mail.

How to order a certificate of existence online

1. Confirm your business’ current status. Search for your entity in the Idaho SOS’ business search database. If your business’ status is anything other than “active,” resolve the issue before moving forward.
2. Open your entity records page. Click on your business’ name to open a tab on its filing details/history.
3. Order a certificate of existence. Select “Request Certificate” at the top of the entity records tab and choose a certificate of existence.
4. Submit your request and pay the filing fee. Fill in your name and the mailing address where you want to receive the certificate. Then, pay the $10 filling fee (fees are subject to change) to complete your request.
5. Receive your certificate. Depending on the volume of requests, it may take up to three to seven business days to receive your certificate.
6. Deliver the certificate to the requesting party. Keep one copy for your records and give another copy to the bank or government office that requested it.

How to order a certificate of existence by mail

1. Download the certificate request form from SOSBiz.
2. Fill in your personal information, such as your name and mailing address.
3. Provide your business details, such as its legal name and file number. (You can find your entity’s file number by searching it in the Business Search database.
4. Choose your desired certificate. For a certificate of existence, mark, “existence or good standing.”
5. Select your delivery method. You can choose mail or in-person pickup. For overnight or express delivery, you’ll need to include a prepaid airbill and pay the expedite service fee.
6. Determine your payment method. Either enclose a check payable to the "Idaho Secretary of State," or provide an email address or phone number if you’d prefer to pay by card.
7. Mail your completed form to the following address.