If you’re starting an LLC in Tennessee, the business entity formation process is one of the first and most important hurdles. This step can beterr ...
How to Get a Certificate of Existence in Tennessee
Written by: Natalie Fell
Natalie is a business writer with experience in operations, HR, and training & development within the software, healthcare, and financial services sectors.
Edited by: David Lepeska
David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.
Updated on May 2, 2023

How to Get a Certificate of Existence in Tennessee
- What is a Certificate of Existence for Tennessee?
- Why Do I Need a Certificate of Existence?
- Where to Get a Certificate of Existence in Tennessee?
- Requirements for a Certificate of Existence
- How Much Does a Tennessee Certificate of Existence Cost?
In Tennessee, potential creditors or investors might request a certificate of existence for your LLC, and you’ll need to provide one or risk losing crucial financing. Thankfully, this guide provides all the information you need to get this certificate in Tennessee.
What is a Certificate of Existence for Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a certificate of existence, known as a certificate of good standing in most other states, verifies that you’re a legally registered business entity that is up to date on all filings and fees and permitted to do business in the state. You do not have to obtain this certificate to do business in Tennessee, or in any state. It is simply used to verify your strong status to third parties such as banks.

Why Do I Need a Certificate of Existence?
Your LLC only needs a certificate of existence if another party requests one. For instance, a bank might request one if you’re opening a bank account or applying for a loan. A credit firm might request one if you apply for a business credit card, or if you set up credit card processing for customer payments.
If you’re registering as a foreign LLC in another state, you will probably be asked for a certificate of existence.
A foreign entity is simply a business entity doing business in a state other than the one in which it’s registered. For example, if your business is registered in Tennessee but you also do business in Georgia, you’ll need to register a foreign entity in Georgia.
Where to Get a Certificate of Existence in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, the Secretary of State issues certificates of existence. Just go to their website to fill out the required form. Note that you’ll need your Secretary of State Control Number to look up your business. The cost for the certificate of existence is $20 and requests are typically processed within two business days.
Requirements for a Certificate of Existence
You must be registered as a business entity in that state. Operating as a sole proprietorship or a partnership does not require registration in Tennessee, so those entities are not able to obtain a certificate of existence.
Corporations and LLCs, like your business, must be registered with the state, so they are able to obtain the certificate.
How Much Does a Tennessee Certificate of Existence Cost?
Again, the fee to obtain a certificate of existence in Tennessee is $20. But it’s well worth it because this is an official document that proves your business’ financial accountability and could open the door to greater investment and expansion.
Comments
Featured Resources

6 Best LLC Services in Tennessee
Published on August 13, 2022
Read Now
How to Start an LLC in Tennessee
Published on March 22, 2022
Embarking on the entrepreneurial path and establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Tennessee is an attractive option for many aspiringbusin ...
Read Now

How to Start a Business in Tennessee
Published on November 24, 2021
Tennessee is home to Nashville, aka Music City, almost 30 whiskey distilleries, and Elvis Presley’s beloved Graceland. It has produced many iconic ...
Read Now
Leave a Reply