How to get a Certificate of Existence from the South Carolina Secretary of State
A certificate of good standing in the State of South Carolina is called a Certificate of Existence. You can order by mail or in person, but we recommend mailing. Normal processing takes up to 3 days, plus additional time for mailing, and costs $10.00. Expedited service is not available but in person orders are processed while you wait.
You can order
By Mail:
You will want to provide the Order Form including the business name, payment, return address information, specific request and a daytime phone number for any questions.
In Person:Requested documents can usually be provided while you wait at no additional charge. You will want to have your payment handy.
How much does a South Carolina Certificate of Existence cost?
$10.00 for normal processing.
$10.00 return fax fee (per 10 pages).
Is expedited processing available?
No. However, in person orders are processed while you wait at no additional charge.
Payment options?
Check or Money Order.
Make check or money order payable to: Secretary of State.
(Note: they will invoice law firms located in the state of South Carolina only)
How long does it take to get a Certificate of Existence?
Normal processing: 2-3 business days, plus additional time for mailing.
Counter Service: while you wait (in person only).
Documents filed prior to 1986 may be in archives, if so, they will notify you with information on how to obtain them.
How will the Certificate of Existence come back after I order from the South Carolina Secretary of State?
It will be mailed by regular mail, unless you request otherwise and provide a pre-addressed prepaid envelope or UPS/Fed Ex account number. Return service by fax is available for an additional $10.00 fee. Return service by email is not available.
Forms:
| Certificate of Existence Order Form |
Contact Info:
South Carolina Secretary of State
Corporate Division
1205 Pendleton Street, Suite 525
Columbia, SC 29201
or
PO Box 11350
Columbia, SC 29211
(803)734-2158 phone
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