After you create a new business, LLC, LP, Corporation, or other entity, you will likely receive a letter titled a “Certificate of Existence Request Form” that looks similar to the one below:
The letter claims that you need to send money (anywhere from $70-$100, or more) to get a copy of your Georgia Certificate of Existence. The letter states that a copy of this document is necessary to open a bank account, file taxes, or otherwise engage in business. Do not send money or respond to these companies. These letters are a scam.
You can get your Certificate of Existence directly from the Georgia Secretary of State for a nominal charge ($20). You can order a Certificate of Existence on the Georgia Secretary of State’s website. Most documents you need that pertain your business can be found for free at the Secretary of State’s website, by searching for your business: GA Secretary of State Business Search. Generally, your Certificate of Existence is not required and there is no legal reason to order one. If you are seeking to obtain a loan, you may find that the financial intuition requests a Certificate. Your EIN and documents received when you created your entity should be sufficient to conduct most day-to-day transactions. If you receive a letter claiming you should send money to obtain your Certificate, or any other document pertaining to your business, and you are unsure if the letter is legitimate, contact the attorney who established your entity or the Georgia Secretary of State.
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