How to Get South Carolina Certificate of Existence


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

All Posts by Steve Goldstein →
Business Formation Expert  |   Fact Checked by Editorial Staff
Last updated: 
LLCBuddy™ offers informative content for educational purposes only, not as a substitute for professional legal or tax advice. We may earn commissions if you use the services we recommend on this site.
At LLCBuddy, we don't just offer information; we provide a curated experience backed by extensive research and expertise. Led by Steve Goldstein, a seasoned expert in the LLC formation sector, our platform is built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the nuances involved in establishing and running an LLC. We've navigated the intricacies of the industry, sifted through the complexities, and packaged our knowledge into a comprehensive, user-friendly guide. Our commitment is to empower you with reliable, up-to-date, and actionable insights, ensuring you make informed decisions. With LLCBuddy, you're not just getting a tutorial; you're gaining a trustworthy partner for your entrepreneurial journey.
Get South Carolina Certificate of Existence

Are you looking to expand your business operations or secure financing for your company in South Carolina? One essential document you’ll need in such situations is the Certificate of Existence. This certificate is an official document issued by the state authorities to confirm that your business is compliant with state regulations and requirements. The Certificate of Existence is one of the most important documents your business needs. Whether it is the South Carolina LLC filing or a corporation or any other form of business, the Certificate of Existence must be obtained.

We will share the in and out of South Carolina Certificate of Existence in this article. We’ll also discuss the various scenarios when you might need this certificate and provide helpful tips to ensure your business remains in good standing with the South Carolina authorities. We recommend you read the article on how to get South Carolina Certificate of Existence till the end. Let’s dive in and get your business one step closer to achieving its goals!

What is Certificate of Existence in South Carolina

The Certificate of Existence is a document that every business in South Carolina requires to obtain. This document states that the company (LLC, Corporation, Partnership, etc.) complies with the State government. In other words, the business has fulfilled all the legal requirements in South Carolina. Whether you form an LLC or any other form of business, you must get this document.

If you take your business to a different state, your Certificate of Existence will be a necessary document to be produced. It shows that your business does not have any illegitimate or outlawed activities.

What Information You Have in South Carolina Certificate of Existence

The Certificate of Existence consists of very pivotal information related to your business. Following is the information your Certificate of Existence will have-

  • The entity type (LLC, Corporation, LLP, LP, or any other registered entity type) when it was formed
  • The date of filing the business entity (filing the formation document).
  • The current name and address of the business entity
  • Whether the business entity exists today
  • Name and address of the Resident Agent
  • The State where the document is issued
  • A declaration that the business entity has paid all the required taxes and complies with all applicable legal requirements.
  • A declaration that the business entity met all the requirements to get the document.

Who Should Obtain the Certificate of Existence

Any business entity, a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a Corporation, a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), a Limited Partnership (LP), or any other registered business structure in South Carolina is eligible to obtain the Certificate of Existence. Anyone with a sole proprietorship does not need to obtain the Certificate of Existence because sole proprietorship companies do not have to register their business.

How to Obtain South Carolina Certificate of Existence

The Secretary of State issues this document. To obtain the Certificate of Existence, you must fill out the form and send it to the South Carolina SOS along with the required filing fees. There is some information you will need to enter while submitting the form. Here are the points to add-

Step 1: Get the Form

The first thing you need to do is get the form. The form is available on the state SOS website. You can download the form and mail it or submit it online. The following points are required to mention in the form-

Details of The Requester: The first information you need to provide is the detail of the requester. Provide your full name, address (which can be your business address), and phone number.

Name of Your Business: Provide the exact name of your business. Make sure no spelling mistakes are made. The spelling must be the same as mentioned in the Certificate of Formation. Besides the name, provide the company registration number or file number. The SOS issues this number after you file the Certificate of Formation. This is not mandatory, but it is recommended to share the file number to get the process done quickly.

Details of Return Method: The certificate can be collected in person or by mail from South Carolina SOS. If you request the document in person, you can take the return in person or by mail. Choose which way you want it.

Copies of the Certificate: You can request the number of copies of the certificate from SOS. There is a box in the form you need to check for multiple copies of this document. You can obtain more than one copy of the Certificate of Compliance for various purposes. It is recommended to get more copies of the certificate for future use.

Fax Copy of the Certificate: You might get a Fax copy before receiving the certificate’s hard copy. This is one of the options available in some of the states. If you want to receive the fax copy of the certificate, you must provide the fax number while filing the form.

Copies of Other Documents: If you want, you can request copies of other documents filed with the SOS. Other documents include the South Carolina Articles of Organization for LLCs, Articles of Incorporation, amendments, and other registered documents with the SOS. This is optional and you can avoid this. With every copy you request, you must pay a stipulated fee.

Step 2: Submit the Form

You can submit the form online, by mail, or in person, whichever is available and more convenient. Send the form to the South Carolina Secretary of State’s Office, Attn: Corporate Fillings, 1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 525, Columbia, SC 29201 for offline filing. You can also submit the form online. For that, you must go to the South Carolina SOS official website and search for the appropriate form.

Step 3: Filing Fee and Processing Time

A filing fee must be paid to the SOS to obtain the Certificate of Existence. The amount depends on the number of copies you request. If you request other document copies, you might pay an additional fee for that.

Processing Time: The Certificate of Existence’s processing time varies from state to state. Also, it depends on the expedited filing as well. It can take a few days to a few months to obtain the Certificate of Existence in South Carolina.

Step 4: Receive the Certificate of Existence

Once you submit the form and the necessary filing fee, your forms start processing. The process might take a lot of time. If you do not want to wait, you can check with the South Carolina SOS if they have expedited filing or not. In South Carolina, it can take up to a few months to receive the Certificate of Existence.

Why Do You Need a Certificate of Existence

The Certificate of Existence in South Carolina is a character certificate of any business. Obtaining this document makes your business legitimate officially. You need this document every now and then while making business decisions. You must obtain the document for the following reasons,

  • To get business loans and advances or investors
  • To get business bank accounts
  • To purchase insurance for business coverage
  • To renew licenses & permits
  • To set up your business in other states, for example, a Foreign LLC.
  • To sell or transfer your business completely or partially to another.
  • To get into a legal business contract with other businesses or clients.

The document is required as much as the formation document. Hence, obtaining the South Carolina Certificate of Existence is needed.

FAQs

What is a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
A South Carolina Certificate of Existence is a document issued by the South Carolina Secretary of State that confirms the existence of a business entity registered with the state.
What is the purpose of a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
The purpose of a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is to prove that a company is legally registered in the state and is in good standing with the Secretary of State.
How do I obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
To obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence, you must submit an application to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
How much does a South Carolina Certificate of Existence cost?
The fee for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is $25.
How long does it take to receive a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
The processing time for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is usually 1-2 business days.
How long is a South Carolina Certificate of Existence valid?
A South Carolina Certificate of Existence is valid for two years from the date of issuance.
Do I need to renew my South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
Yes, you must renew your South Carolina Certificate of Existence every two years in order to maintain its validity.
What is the filing address for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
The filing address for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is
Can I obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence online?
Yes, you can obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence online by using the Secretary of State’s Business Filings Online system.
What documents do I need to submit in order to obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
To obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence, you must submit a completed application form and a copy of the company’s Articles of Organization.
How do I verify that a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is valid?
To verify the validity of a South Carolina Certificate of Existence, you can contact the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office or use the Business Entity Search tool on the Secretary of State’s website.
What happens if I do not obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
If you do not obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence, your business entity may be subject to penalties, including fines and/or dissolution.
What is the difference between a South Carolina Certificate of Existence and a Certificate of Good Standing?
A South Carolina Certificate of Existence confirms the existence of a business entity registered with the state, while a Certificate of Good Standing confirms that the business entity is in good standing with the Secretary of State.
Are South Carolina Certificates of Existence required for all businesses?
No, South Carolina Certificates of Existence are only required for certain types of business entities, such as corporations, limited liability companies, and nonprofit corporations.
What are the filing requirements for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
The filing requirements for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence include submitting an application form and a copy of the company’s Articles of Organization.
How do I contact the South Carolina Secretary of State to obtain a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
You can contact the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office by phone at (803) 737-2200 or by email at [email protected].
Who can sign a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
The signatory of a South Carolina Certificate of Existence must be the registered agent or a representative of the business entity listed on the certificate.
How do I know if my South Carolina Certificate of Existence has been accepted?
Generally, you will receive an email notification from the Secretary of State’s office when your South Carolina Certificate of Existence has been accepted.
How do I amend my South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
To amend your South Carolina Certificate of Existence, you must submit an amendment application to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Can I obtain multiple South Carolina Certificates of Existence?
Yes, you can obtain multiple South Carolina Certificates of Existence.
How do I transfer my South Carolina Certificate of Existence to a new entity?
To transfer your South Carolina Certificate of Existence to a new entity, you must submit a Transfer of Rights application to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
How do I cancel my South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
To cancel your South Carolina Certificate of Existence, you must submit a cancellation application to the South Carolina Secretary of State.
Who should I contact if I have a question about my South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
If you have a question about your South Carolina Certificate of Existence, you should contact the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office.
Is it possible to expedite the processing of my South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of your South Carolina Certificate of Existence for an additional fee.
What is the South Carolina Certificate of Existence filing fee?
The filing fee for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is $25.
What is the expedited South Carolina Certificate of Existence filing fee?
The expedited filing fee for a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is $50.
Can I file my South Carolina Certificate of Existence in person?
Yes, you can file your South Carolina Certificate of Existence in person at the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office.
What is the address of the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office?
The address of the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office is 1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 525, Columbia, SC 29201.
What is the mailing address for filing a South Carolina Certificate of Existence?
The mailing address for filing a South Carolina Certificate of Existence is PO Box 11350, Columbia, SC 29211.
Does the South Carolina Secretary of State offer online filing for South Carolina Certificates of Existence?
Yes, the South Carolina Secretary of State offers online filing for South Carolina Certificates of Existence through the Business Filings Online system.

Also Read

Why South Carolina Certificate of Existence is So Important

One of the key reasons why the South Carolina Certificate of Existence is so important is that it serves as official proof that your business is registered and authorized to conduct operations in the state. This document shows that you have met all the necessary requirements and have been granted the necessary permissions to operate legally within South Carolina. Without this certificate, your business may be at risk of fines, penalties, or even closure for failing to comply with state regulations.

Moreover, the South Carolina Certificate of Existence is often required when applying for business licenses, permits, and contracts. Many government agencies, financial institutions, and potential business partners will request a copy of this document as part of their due diligence process. By having this certificate readily available, you can streamline the application process and demonstrate to stakeholders that your business is in good standing with the state.

Not only does the South Carolina Certificate of Existence provide credibility and legitimacy to your business, but it also offers peace of mind to both internal and external stakeholders. For internal purposes, having this document on hand can help you stay organized and ensure that your business is in compliance with state regulations. Externally, it can provide reassurance to customers, vendors, and investors that they are dealing with a reputable and trustworthy company.

In addition, the South Carolina Certificate of Existence can be a valuable tool when seeking financing or expanding your business. Lenders and investors will often request this document to verify the legal status of your business and assess the level of risk associated with working with your company. By promptly obtaining this certificate and keeping it up to date, you can show potential partners that your business is a reliable and responsible investment.

Beyond the practical benefits, having a South Carolina Certificate of Existence can also help protect your business from potential legal disputes. In case of any misunderstandings or disagreements, having this official certification can serve as evidence of your business’s legitimacy and prevent unnecessary litigation. This can save you time, money, and reputation damage in the long run.

Overall, the South Carolina Certificate of Existence is an essential document for any business operating in the state. By obtaining and maintaining this certificate, you can demonstrate your compliance with state regulations, enhance your credibility with stakeholders, and protect your business from legal risks. In today’s competitive business environment, having this small piece of paper can make a big difference in the success and sustainability of your organization.

Conclusion

The Certificate of Existence is a vital document for any business entity in South Carolina, as it enables you to expand your operations throughout the United States. It’s essential to provide accurate and truthful information in this document. If you plan to establish the same business in another state, obtaining a Certificate of Existence is necessary.

Leave a Comment