How to Get Subsistence Certificate in Pennsylvania (2025)


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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Get Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate

The Subsistence Certificate in Pennsylvania is a significant document that is required if you expand your business to another state. When you file an LLC in Pennsylvania, you must submit a handful of documents to the Secretary of State. In case you take your business beyond the state border, you need this additional document, commonly known as the Certificate of Good Standing.

In this article, LLCBuddy editors share the ins and outs of Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate. You’ll also learn what the uses of this document are other than having a foreign LLC out of state. We shared how to get the Subsistence Certificate in Pennsylvania. The Subsistence Certificate is one of the most important documents your business needs. Whether it is the LLC filing or a corporation filing in Pennsylvania or any other form of business, the Subsistence Certificate must be obtained. Let’s dive in and get your business one step closer to achieving its goals!

What is Subsistence Certificate in Pennsylvania

The Subsistence Certificate is a document that every business in Pennsylvania requires to obtain. This document states that the company (LLC, Corporation in Pennsylvania, Partnership, etc.) complies with the State government. In other words, the business has fulfilled all the legal requirements in Pennsylvania. 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, Subsistence Certificate will be a necessary document to be produced. It shows that your business does not have any illegitimate or outlawed activities. Besides, to restore or reinstate an LLC in Pennsylvania after dissolution, you must obtain this document.

What Information You Have in Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate

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

articles of organization
  • 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 Registered 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 Subsistence Certificate 

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 Pennsylvania is eligible to obtain the Subsistence Certificate. Anyone with a sole proprietorship does not need to obtain the Subsistence Certificate because sole proprietorship companies do not have to register their business. 

How to Obtain Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate

The Pennsylvania Secretary of State issues this document. To obtain the Subsistence Certificate, you must fill out the form and send it to the Pennsylvania 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

In Pennsylvania, to obtain the Subsistence Certificate, you must visit the link mentioned. Log in to the SOS portal and order a Certificate of Existence by following the online filing procedure.

The following points are required to be mentioned in the form-

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

name your llc

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 that you 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 Pennsylvania 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 that more copies of the certificate be obtained 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 Pennsylvania Certificate of Organization for LLCs, Articles of Incorporation for corporations, LLC amendment, corporation amendment, and other registered documents with the SOS. This is optional, and you can avoid this. You must pay a stipulated fee for every copy you request. 

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 Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, P.O. Box 8722, Harrisburg, PA 17105 for offline filing. You must search the Pennsylvania SOS official website for the appropriate form.

Step 3: Filing Fee and Processing Time

A filing fee of $40 must be paid to the SOS to obtain the Subsistence Certificate. The amount might be more depending on the number of copies you request. If you request other document copies, you might have to pay an additional fee for that.

Processing Time: The Subsistence Certificate’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 Subsistence Certificate in Pennsylvania. 

Step 4: Receive the Subsistence Certificate

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 Pennsylvania SOS if they have expedited filing or not. In Pennsylvania, it can take up to a few months to receive the Subsistence Certificate.

Why Do You Need a Subsistence Certificate

The Subsistence Certificate in Pennsylvania 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.
  • If your LLC is dissolved for any administrative reasons and you want to restore it, you must obtain the Subsistence Certificate for reinstatement.

The document is required as much as the formation document. Hence, obtaining the Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate is needed. 

FAQs

What is a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
A Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate is a document issued by the state that verifies an individual’s eligibility for public assistance.
Am I eligible to apply for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
To be eligible for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate, you must meet certain income and household size requirements set by the state.
How do I apply for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
You can apply for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate by contacting your local county assistance office or by applying online through the COMPASS website in Pennsylvania.
What documents do I need to provide when applying for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
You may need to provide proof of income, residency, and household size when applying for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate.
How long does it take to receive a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate after applying?
The processing time for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate can vary, but it typically takes a few weeks for your application to be reviewed and approved.
Can I use my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate to receive food benefits?
Yes, a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate can be used to receive food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in the state.
Is the Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate the same as a food stamp card?
No, a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate is not the same as a food stamp card, but it can be used to access food benefits through SNAP.
Can I use my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate to receive cash assistance?
Yes, a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate can also be used to receive cash assistance through programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
Can I apply for other benefits in Pennsylvania with a Subsistence Certificate?
Yes, your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate may qualify you for other state benefits and programs based on your eligibility.
What should I do if my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate is lost or stolen?
If your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate is lost or stolen, you should contact your local county assistance office immediately to request a replacement.
Can I renew my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
You may need to renew your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate periodically, depending on the state’s requirements for public assistance programs.
Will my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate expire?
Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificates typically have an expiration date, so it’s important to check the validity of your certificate and renew it as needed.
How will I receive my benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
Your benefits will be distributed electronically through methods such as direct deposit or an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card linked to your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate.
What should I do if my income or household size changes after I receive a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
If your income or household size changes, you should report these changes to your local county assistance office to update your eligibility for benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate.
Can I use my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate out of state?
Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificates are typically valid only in the state of Pennsylvania, so you may not be able to use it for benefits outside of the state.
Can I transfer my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate to another person?
Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificates are issued to individuals based on their eligibility for public assistance, and they cannot be transferred to another person.
Is there an application fee for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
No, there is no application fee for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate. It is a free document provided to eligible individuals.
Can I check the status of my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate application online?
Yes, you can check the status of your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate application online through the COMPASS website or by contacting your local county assistance office.
What programs can I access with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
With a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate, you may be eligible for programs such as SNAP, TANF, Medical Assistance, and other state benefits based on your eligibility.
Can I work and still receive benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
Yes, you may be able to work and still receive benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate, as eligibility is based on income and household size.
How can I appeal if my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate application is denied?
If your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision by following the process outlined by the state’s Department of Human Services.
Can I apply for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate if I am homeless?
Yes, individuals who are homeless may still be eligible to apply for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate based on their income and household situation.
Are there benefits available specifically for children with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
Yes, children in households with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate may be eligible for additional benefits such as free or reduced-price school meals.
Can I use my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate to receive health insurance?
Your Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate may qualify you for Medical Assistance benefits, which can include health insurance coverage for you and your family.
Is there a limit to how long I can receive benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
The length of time you can receive benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate may vary based on the specific programs and your changing circumstances.
Can I volunteer while receiving benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
Volunteering may be encouraged while receiving benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate, depending on the program requirements and your ability to do so.
Are seniors eligible for benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
Yes, seniors who meet the income and eligibility requirements may be eligible for benefits with a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate, including additional assistance programs.
Who is eligible for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
Pennsylvania residents who meet certain income guidelines and have limited resources may be eligible for a Subsistence Certificate.
Can I use my Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate to purchase food?
Yes, a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate can be used to purchase food as well as other essential items.
Is there a fee associated with applying for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate?
No, there is no fee to apply for a Pennsylvania Subsistence Certificate.

Also Read

In Conclusion

The Subsistence Certificate is a vital document for any business entity in Pennsylvania, 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 Subsistence Certificate is necessary.

While forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Corporation in Pennsylvania, it is necessary to have some documents filed with the State authority. The Subsistence Certificate is one of them. In some cases, if the business gets shut down or dissolved due to administrative reasons, this document helps the owners retrieve their business in the future. In this article, we shared DIY ways to get the document, but you can always hire a professional to get that for you.

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