A Certificate of Status can be a helpful, and sometimes required, legal document that represents the standing of an individual or business. The Certificate of Status is typically required in order to qualify for certain documents such as citizenship or a driver license. For businesses they are commonly used to show good standing in order to operate. This article will outline the process of getting a Certificate of Status in hopes of making it easier for you to obtain.

The foremost important necessity to get a Certificate of Status is a request form for the documents. For many states, this form can be downloaded from the Internet and easily filled out for completion. Required information includes the name of the person or business, as well as identifying numbers (most commonly, a social security number or business identification number).

When submitting the request form, your state will charge a fee for the processing of the certificate. This fee is required in order to receive your request.

If you mail your request, you will also be required to include a self-addressed return envelope and a phone number where you can be contacted for any questions or concerns.

Once you have assembled all the required documents to obtain your certificate, you can submit it to your local government. In most cases, this is the Secretary of State for your state.

With the advancement of technology, sending a request for a Certificate of Status has never been easier. Many states offer the opportunity to submit all of the forms electronically online. Another simple method includes faxing your documents to the state department.

For those who need their certificate in a timely manner, many states allow requests in person. Typically, a request in person will be process the same business day, assuming all paperwork and documentation is correct.

Another option to submit your documentation is through the mail. This process will take longer, but in many states it will be the most cost friendly method.

The fee to obtain a Certificate of Status varies from state to state. Before applying for your certificate, check with your local department to see how much it will cost.

If you send your documents in the mail most states will accept major credit cards, a check or a money order made out the state department (typically the Secretary of State). Many online requests can be completed by paying with a credit card. And for documents that are submitted in person, check, money order, credit card or cash is typically accepted.

Each state varies with cost and method, so check with your specific department before submitting your documents.

The quickest way to get your Certificate of Status is by applying in person. These requests have priority over requests that are submitted electronically or mailed. These requests are completed in a timely manner and can typical grant your Certificate of Status within the same day.

If you are unable to personally deliver your documents, doing so electronically or by fax will be the next most time efficient methods. Check your states website to find where to complete your documents online or to find a fax number for submission.

To receive your certificate in return from a mail order, it will depend on how you send the documents. Factors include the time of year and how you send your forms (overnight, ground or standard carrier). Many states suggest that you will receive a response within seven to ten business days, but this method is certainly the least time friendly method of submitting your documentation and should be considered mainly for those without a timetable for the return of their Certificate of Status.

If you have other questions regarding obtaining a Certificate of Status, you can find most relevant information online on your specific states website. Many general inquires can be found online and for other questions you can find a phone number to get the answers you need.