- 1). Access the secretary of state website. Search for the governmental agency in the state which the company practices. These informative websites usually maintain an online list of business registration. A search option is also provided.
- 2). Request copies of the company's articles of incorporation through the secretary of state. Some states also offer certificates of good standing, which proves the company is in legal compliance. Copies of the registration documents are usually free.
- 3). Search the Securities and Exchange Commission to determine whether a company is incorporated. However, not every company or corporation is required to file articles of incorporation with them. Access the Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov.
- 4). Check the business status. Once you find the company. An "active status indicates the business completes annual registration reports. A "dissolved" or "inactive" status means the business fails to maintain its annual registration reports. It also may mean that the company is out of business or illegally representing itself as a legal corporation.
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