How do I find old articles of incorporation in Florida?
Hopefully, there will be a document titled “Articles of Incorporation.” If you can’t find the document you are looking for, simply contact the Division of Corporations in Florida (850-245-6052) and request a copy.
How do I know if my corporation is still active?
Navigate to the Secretary of State website for the state in which the corporation is registered. Start your search. Look for a “Businesses” or “Corporations” tab. Each state website is constructed differently, and the specific tab name may vary, but should always be business or corporation related.
What is the life of a corporation?
The legal life of a corporation is perpetual. Corporations are a separate legal entity from the owners or shareholders, and as long as the corporation is in legal status, it is considered active.
Do I have to have a certificate of status?
Oftentimes, a Certificate of Status is not necessary. When you are working with an attorney, your attorney will order the Certificate for you if required as part of a business transaction.
How often do you have to renew your fictitious business name in Florida?
5 years
How long is the fictitious name registration valid? It is valid for 5 years and expires on December 31st of the final year. You can renew your fictitious name online or by mail (PDF).
Do I have to publish my fictitious business name in Florida?
You must publish a “legal notice of intent to file a fictitious name” in a newspaper BEFORE your fictitious name is registered. The notice must be published once by a newspaper that circulates in the county of the principal location of the business.
Can several sole proprietorships have the same business name?
Multiple DBAs When it comes to a sole proprietorship, it is required to only need one DBA. Being able to apply for multiple DBAs under a sole proprietorship depends on how many your local/state government will allow. Each filing of a DBA costs money, so registering multiple DBAs may be unnecessary for what you need.
